Prepare for your Housekeeper interview. Understand the required skills and qualifications, anticipate the questions you may be asked, and study well-prepared answers using our sample responses.
Housekeeping can be a physically demanding job. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re up for the challenge. In your answer, explain how you stay active at work and what steps you take to stay healthy.
Answer Example: "I am comfortable working on my feet for long periods of time. I find that taking breaks every hour or so helps me stay energized. I also make sure to take some time to stretch out my muscles. This helps me stay limber and reduces the risk of injury."
This question can help the interviewer determine your experience level with cleaning products. If you have previous experience using specific products, share what you liked about them and how they helped you complete your tasks more efficiently.
Answer Example: "I am very familiar with using all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants and laundry detergents. I find that these products are essential when it comes to cleaning because they can be used for multiple tasks. For example, I’ve used an all-purpose cleaner to disinfect surfaces in a room and then used the same bottle to wash clothing. I find that these products save me time and energy because I don’t have to purchase multiple products for different jobs."
Housekeeping can be a solitary job, but it’s important to be able to work well on your own. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with being alone in the workplace. In your answer, explain that you enjoy working independently. Explain that you like having the freedom to complete tasks however you see fit.
Answer Example: "Yes, I am comfortable working on my own. I have worked as a housekeeper for several years now, and I have learned how to manage my time effectively. I am used to working without supervision, so I make sure to stay organized and productive. I also like the freedom of being able to complete tasks however I see fit. For example, I may choose to start with one room and then move on to another."
This question can help the interviewer understand your cleaning preferences and how you might fit into their company culture. Use this opportunity to share any products you love using and why they’re so effective for you.
Answer Example: "I really enjoy using disinfecting wipes because they’re so easy to use. I can clean my surface quickly without having to use any water, which is great when I’m in a hurry. I also love using floor cleaner because it leaves my floors looking so shiny and clean. It’s one of my favorite parts of the job."
Housekeepers often work with clients who are difficult to please. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and temperament to work with all types of people. In your answer, explain how you would approach working with a difficult client. Explain that you would try to understand their needs and work hard to meet them. Explain that you value customer service and would do everything in your power to make sure the client is satisfied with your work.
Answer Example: "I understand that working with difficult clients can be challenging, but I am confident in my ability to handle any situation. I believe that communication is key when working with any type of client, so I would take the time to listen to their needs and concerns. If they have any issues, I would encourage them to speak with me directly so we can find a solution together."
Housekeeping is a job that requires you to keep track of supplies and inventory. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience doing so. In your answer, explain how you keep track of what you have in stock and what supplies you need to order more.
Answer Example: "I use a spreadsheet to keep track of all the supplies I have in my housekeeping cart. I also write down when I use each item so I know when to replace it. For example, if I use a bottle of dish soap, I’ll write down the date so I know when to order more. This helps me stay organized and ensures I don’t run out of anything."
The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you handle difficult situations. Use past experiences to describe a time when you had to improvise or adapt to a cleaning challenge, such as a messy room or an unusual object that needed cleaning.
Answer Example: "In my last position, I was cleaning a client’s bathroom when I noticed there was a small leak coming from the showerhead. I immediately notified my supervisor, who told me to continue cleaning while they contacted the plumber. While I waited for the plumber to arrive, I cleaned the rest of the bathroom so it would be ready when the plumber got there."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you would respond to a challenging situation. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work with clients to find solutions.
Answer Example: "I would first try to find a way to complete the task within my normal duties, but if that wasn’t possible, I would politely explain that I am only paid to do housekeeping duties and offer to find someone who could help them with their request. I would then find someone who could assist them with their request or find a way to complete the task myself."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your work and what your standards are for cleanliness. Your answer should show that you are willing to take initiative and ensure that all areas are cleaned properly, even if it’s not part of your specific duties.
Answer Example: "If I noticed something out of place while cleaning, I would first make sure it wasn’t something the client wanted left alone. If it wasn’t, then I would ask them if they wanted me to clean it or if it could wait until my next visit. If they wanted me to clean it immediately, I would do so right away so they wouldn’t have to wait."
The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of cleaning products and equipment. Use your answer to highlight your experience with these items, including their names, uses and any safety precautions you should take when using them.
Answer Example: "I am very familiar with the different types of cleaning products and equipment used in housekeeping. I have been working in this field for five years, and during that time I have learned about all the different types of cleaning solutions, machines and tools available. I am confident in my ability to use these items effectively to clean a variety of surfaces and surfaces."
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Use your answer to highlight some of the most important skills for housekeeping, such as organizational skills, attention to detail and communication skills.
Answer Example: "I think the most important skills for a housekeeper are being organized, having attention to detail and being able to communicate well with others. Being organized means that I can keep track of all my tasks and deadlines, which helps me meet expectations. Having attention to detail allows me to ensure all areas are clean and tidy, without leaving anything out. Finally, good communication skills allow me to collaborate with other members of the team and communicate any issues or concerns."
Housekeeping can be a busy job with many tasks to complete in a short amount of time. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience with time management and organization. In your answer, explain how you plan out your day so you can get everything done.
Answer Example: "I find it helpful to create a cleaning schedule for myself before I start each day. I break down all the tasks I need to complete into smaller chunks so I know what I’m working on at any given moment. For example, if I’m cleaning the kitchen, I’ll list all the different areas I need to clean like the counters, cabinets and floors. Then, I’ll list out the amount of time I have to clean each area. This helps me stay focused and ensures that I get everything done within my shift."
This question can help the interviewer understand your cleaning process and how you approach different tasks. Your answer should include a step-by-step description of what you do when dusting and cleaning furniture.
Answer Example: "I start by vacuuming the furniture, then I use a soft cloth to wipe down the surface. Next, I dust any visible surfaces with an anti-allergen dusting spray. Finally, I use an upholstery brush to remove any dust that may be hiding in the crevices."
Housekeepers often have to go above and beyond for their clients. Employers ask this question to see if you are willing to do so and how you would do it. In your answer, explain what you did and why it was important to go beyond what was expected of you.
Answer Example: "I once had a client who was hosting a large party at their home. They asked me to clean the entire house before the guests arrived. I started early in the morning and finished just in time for the guests to arrive. The client was very grateful for my hard work and dedication."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you would handle a challenging situation. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work with clients’ needs.
Answer Example: "If a client asked me to clean a room that I normally wouldn’t, I would first ask them why they wanted me to clean it. If they had a good reason, such as they were hosting guests soon, I would do my best to clean the room quickly so they could use it. If they didn’t have a good reason, I would politely tell them no and explain why."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle conflict and challenges in the workplace. Your answer should show that you are willing to speak up when necessary, but also that you value teamwork and collaboration.
Answer Example: "I would first try to have a conversation with them in private to see if there was anything I could do to help them improve their performance. If not, I would talk to our supervisor about the issue so they could address it. I believe in helping my coworkers achieve their goals and objectives, but I also want to make sure that my own responsibilities are met."
Housekeeping can be a fast-paced job that requires you to work quickly. Employers ask this question to see if you can handle pressure and still get the job done well. In your answer, explain how you stay organized and focused when you have many tasks to complete in a short amount of time.
Answer Example: "I am a very organized person, which helps me stay on track with my work even when I have many things to do. I also find that if I break down my tasks into smaller pieces, it’s easier for me to stay focused. For example, if I have to clean an entire house, I will break it down into rooms. Then, I will break down each room into specific tasks. This helps me stay focused on what I need to do next."
Housekeeping can involve working with clients who have special needs. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with this type of client and how you handle it. In your answer, explain what the client’s needs were and how you helped them.
Answer Example: "I once worked at an assisted living facility where I helped care for several clients with special needs. One of my clients was an elderly man who had dementia. Every day, I would talk to him and try to keep him engaged in our conversation. I also made sure to keep his room organized so he could find things easily. This helped him feel more comfortable in his environment."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your work and manage time. Your answer should include a step-by-step plan for cleaning up after an event, including any tools or techniques you use to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Answer Example: "I start by sweeping up any debris on the floor, then I use disinfectant wipes to clean any surfaces that may have been touched by guests. Next, I vacuum the carpet and furniture to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Finally, I clean any dishes left in the kitchen and make sure all lights are turned off when I leave."
This question is a great way to show your customer service skills. It’s important for housekeepers to make sure their clients are happy with their work because they may be working in the same home for several weeks or months. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific way that you would make sure your client is satisfied with your cleaning.
Answer Example: "I understand how important it is to make my clients happy. I would make sure to ask them questions about their preferences so I can provide them with exactly what they want. I would also make sure to clean all areas of their home thoroughly so they are satisfied with my work."
