Hiring managers ask this to see if you can work well with others in a busy environment. You should say that you listen carefully, stay calm and respectful, and look for solutions that help the whole team.

Example: When disagreements come up, I like to listen carefully to what everyone’s saying so I fully get their point of view. I stay calm and respectful, focusing on finding a solution that works for the whole team. For example, if there’s a difference in how to prepare stock, I’d suggest trying both methods or discussing the pros and cons until we agree on the best approach together.

What they want to know is that you prioritize food safety and customer satisfaction by maintaining high-quality standards. You need to say that you regularly check for freshness using smell, texture, and appearance, properly store fish on ice, and follow hygiene protocols to ensure peak quality.

Example: To keep fish fresh, I rely on checking things like clear eyes, firm flesh, and a fresh sea smell. I also make sure to store everything at the right temperature and turn the stock regularly to keep it in top condition. If I notice anything off, I act quickly to prevent it affecting the rest. For example, when prepping daily, I always inspect each fish carefully before it goes on display.

Questions like this test your practical knowledge of handling perishable products to ensure safety and quality. You need to explain how to store fish at optimal temperatures (0°C to 2°C on ice), describe cleaning and gutting to prevent contamination, and mention labeling with dates to follow first-in-first-out stock rotation.

Example: When storing fish and seafood, keeping them as close to 0°C as possible is key to preserving freshness. It’s important to avoid cross-contamination by using separate containers and regularly cleaning surfaces. I always follow a first-in, first-out approach to make sure older stock is sold first, which helps reduce waste. For example, oily fish like mackerel need quicker turnover than shellfish, which can last a bit longer if kept properly chilled.

This question assesses your knowledge of handling various seafood types safely and efficiently while maintaining quality. You need to explain how you clean and prepare different fish, emphasize hygiene practices like using separate tools to prevent cross-contamination, and describe how you stay precise and fast during busy times.

Example: I handle each type of fish with care, knowing that oily fish like mackerel need quick filleting to keep freshness, while delicate white fish require gentle handling. I always keep my workspace clean and follow hygiene standards closely to prevent cross-contamination. When it’s busy, I stay focused and work methodically to prepare seafood efficiently without rushing, ensuring every piece is ready to impress customers with quality and consistency.

Employers ask this to see if you can collaborate and contribute effectively in a team setting. You need to briefly describe a specific situation where you worked with others to achieve a common goal, emphasizing your role and positive outcome.

Example: In my previous role, we had a busy weekend with unexpected orders. I worked closely with my team to organise the deliveries and prep the fish quickly. We communicated constantly, helping each other stay on track. It was satisfying to see how smoothly everything came together because we supported one another and shared the workload. That teamwork made a real difference in keeping customers happy.

This interview question helps the employer see how well you collaborate and ensure smooth operations in a fast-paced environment. You need to say that you listen actively, share clear information, and confirm understanding to keep the team coordinated and efficient.

Example: I make sure to listen carefully and keep things clear and simple when talking with my team. Whether we're handling deliveries or serving customers, I like checking in regularly to stay on the same page. For example, during busy mornings, a quick chat helps us coordinate smoothly and avoid mistakes. Being approachable and open helps everyone feel comfortable sharing ideas or concerns.

This question helps the interviewer see how you maintain professionalism and customer satisfaction under pressure. You should say that you listen carefully to understand the issue, stay calm and empathetic, then quickly offer a fair solution to resolve the problem.

Example: When a customer has a concern, I listen carefully to understand exactly what’s wrong. Staying calm helps keep things friendly, even if they’re upset. I try to put myself in their shoes and reassure them I’m here to help. For example, if someone’s unhappy with the freshness of their fish, I’d offer a replacement or refund quickly to make sure they leave satisfied.

What they want to know is that you understand the importance of preventing contamination and ensuring a safe work environment. You need to say that you follow strict hygiene practices, keep fish at correct temperatures, and use clean equipment to protect both the product and customers.

Example: When handling fish and seafood, it’s crucial to keep everything clean and chilled to prevent bacteria from growing. Using separate tools and surfaces for different types of seafood helps avoid cross-contamination. Wearing gloves and washing hands regularly also protects both the product and yourself. For example, keeping fish on ice and sanitizing knives between uses ensures freshness and safety for customers.

This question helps interviewers understand how you handle communication challenges in a fast-paced setting to keep work smooth and safe. You need to say that you use clear, simple language, work closely with your team to prioritize tasks, and adjust your tone or volume to be heard over noise.

Example: In busy moments, I keep communication straightforward and focused, using clear, simple instructions to avoid confusion. I stay engaged with my team by checking in regularly and adjusting how I speak based on who I’m talking to—whether it’s quick hand signals on the shop floor or brief chats by the counter. This helps us work smoothly together, even when things get hectic.

Hiring managers ask this question to see how well you can share your knowledge and help customers make informed choices, ensuring they have a positive experience. You should explain how you listen to customers’ needs, describe the taste and cooking methods of different fish, and give practical tips on selecting and storing seafood safely.

Example: When customers ask about fish, I listen carefully to what they’re after—whether it’s taste, health benefits, or cooking style. Then I share clear info about each type, like which are best for grilling or have a milder flavor. I also like to offer simple tips on how to store and prepare the fish safely, so they feel confident cooking it at home and enjoy the best experience.

Hiring managers ask this to understand your relevant skills and how well you know the tasks involved in handling and selling fish. You need to briefly describe your past roles, emphasizing experience with fish preparation, customer service, and maintaining freshness.

Example: Certainly. I’ve spent a few years working in fresh food markets, where I handled a variety of seafood daily, ensuring it was properly stored and displayed. I’m comfortable filleting, cleaning, and advising customers on different fish types and cooking methods. For example, I often helped shoppers choose the right fish based on their recipes, which built trust and repeat business. It’s a role I genuinely enjoy.

Employers ask this question to see if you have the practical abilities and knowledge needed for the job. You need to mention skills like fish handling, knowledge of different types of seafood, and customer service experience.

Example: I have a strong eye for quality and freshness, which is essential when handling fish. I’m comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and enjoy helping customers find exactly what they need. For example, at my last job, I often advised people on selecting seafood for different recipes, which helped build trust and repeat business. Being organised and attentive means I can keep the display attractive and safe throughout the day.

Hiring managers ask this to see if you understand the health advantages of different fish and can advise customers well. You need to highlight key nutrients like omega-3s in salmon, lean protein in white fish, and minerals in shellfish, showing your knowledge and ability to guide healthy choices.

Example: Certainly. Fish like salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. White fish, such as cod, offer a lean source of protein with low fat. Shellfish like prawns provide essential minerals like zinc and iron. Including a variety of seafood in your diet can boost overall nutrition while keeping meals interesting and flavorful.

What they want to know is that you understand the key signs of freshness and proper handling to ensure quality. You need to say you check for clear, bright eyes, firm flesh that springs back, a fresh sea-like smell, and emphasize keeping fish properly iced at the right temperature.

Example: To tell if fish is fresh, I look for clear, bright eyes and shiny skin—dullness usually means it’s not as fresh. I press the flesh gently; it should be firm and bounce back, not feel mushy. A clean, mild smell like the sea is good, while anything sour is a red flag. Properly chilled seafood also stays fresher longer, so I keep an eye on storage conditions to maintain quality.

This question aims to see your commitment to customer service and problem-solving. You need to describe a specific situation where you took extra steps to meet a customer's needs and the positive outcome that followed.

Example: Once, a customer was unsure how to prepare a whole salmon. I took the time to explain different cooking methods and even suggested a simple recipe to try. Later, they came back to thank me, saying it made their dinner special. Moments like that remind me why I enjoy this job—helping people feel confident and excited about their food.

Hiring managers ask this to see how well you work with others and handle pressure during busy times. You should say you communicate clearly, help teammates with their tasks, and quickly solve problems like stock shortages to keep things running smoothly.

Example: During busy periods, I make sure to keep open communication with the team, checking in regularly to see where help is needed. If someone is swamped, I step in to share tasks, whether it’s prepping fish or managing customer orders. Staying calm and flexible helps us adapt quickly—like rearranging duties on the spot—so we keep things running smoothly without overwhelming anyone.

Interviewers ask this question to assess your knowledge of appropriate cooking techniques for different seafood types and how you adapt methods to preserve flavor and texture. You should explain a few methods like grilling, poaching, and frying, and mention how oily fish are best suited for smoking or baking due to their texture and fat content.

Example: Different types of fish and seafood call for varied preparation techniques. Oily fish like mackerel are great grilled or smoked, while delicate white fish suit gentle poaching or steaming to keep texture intact. Shellfish often need careful cleaning and quick cooking to maintain freshness. Keeping everything at the right temperature and handling it hygienically is key to ensuring both safety and quality throughout.

What they want to know is if you prioritize the customer's experience and handle their needs carefully. You need to say that you listen attentively, provide fresh quality products, and offer helpful advice to make sure customers leave happy.

Example: To ensure customers leave happy, I listen carefully to what they want and offer honest advice about the freshest options. I always take the time to answer questions and suggest recipes if needed. For example, if someone’s unsure about a certain fish, I’ll explain how it tastes and the best way to cook it, making their decision easier and their experience more personal.

Employers ask this question to ensure you understand the safety measures required to prevent injuries and maintain hygiene when handling fish. You need to explain that you always wear gloves, aprons, and non-slip boots to protect yourself and keep the workspace clean.

Example: In a fishmonger role, PPE is essential for safety and hygiene. Wearing cut-resistant gloves helps prevent injuries while handling sharp knives, and waterproof aprons keep clothes clean and dry. Non-slip shoes are important to avoid slips on wet floors. Using a hairnet or hat maintains cleanliness, ensuring the fish stays fresh and customers remain confident in the quality of our work.

Employers ask this question to see how you handle pressure and solve problems in your work. You need to briefly describe a specific challenge with fish supply delays, explain how you communicated quickly with suppliers to fix it, and share the positive result, like better supplier relationships.

Example: In my last role, a delivery arrived late on a busy day, risking customer disappointment. I quickly reorganised the prep area, communicated transparently with customers about brief delays, and offered samples to keep them engaged. This approach kept the atmosphere positive and sales steady. It taught me the value of staying calm and proactive when unexpected issues arise.

Employers ask this to ensure you have the essential knowledge to accurately identify and recommend seafood to customers. You need to confidently name various fish and seafood types, describe their key features, and explain how they differ.

Example: Certainly. I’m familiar with a variety of fish and seafood common in the UK market. For example, I can distinguish between oily fish like mackerel and white fish such as cod. I understand the qualities of shellfish too, like how fresh scallops should look and feel. This knowledge helps me guide customers based on taste, cooking methods, and freshness.

Questions like this assess your ability to manage multiple demands efficiently while maintaining excellent customer service. You need to explain how you quickly identify urgent customer needs, coordinate with your team to handle busy times, and stay positive and helpful throughout.

Example: When the shop gets busy, I focus on staying calm and organized, quickly assessing who needs immediate attention, whether it’s customers waiting or restocking fresh fish. I keep clear communication with my team to divide tasks efficiently, ensuring no one feels overwhelmed. Even under pressure, I make sure every customer feels valued and gets quality service, because that’s what keeps people coming back.

Hiring managers ask this to ensure you prioritize food safety and prevent contamination. You need to explain how you follow strict cleaning routines for surfaces and tools, comply with UK food hygiene laws, and maintain personal hygiene by wearing gloves, aprons, and hairnets.

Example: To keep the workspace spotless, I follow a strict routine of cleaning surfaces and tools throughout the day, making sure everything stays fresh and safe. I’m well-versed in food safety standards, so I’m careful to handle fish correctly and avoid cross-contamination. Also, I always wear gloves and keep my hands clean, which helps maintain hygiene and shows respect for both the product and customers.

What they want to know is that you understand the importance of proper waste management to maintain hygiene, prevent contamination, and follow health and safety regulations. You need to explain that you separate organic waste from recyclables and hazardous materials, wear protective gear when handling waste, and use safe techniques to move heavy containers.

Example: When handling waste, I always separate it carefully to keep recyclable and non-recyclable materials apart, which helps with proper disposal. I make sure to wear gloves and clean the area regularly to avoid any cross-contamination. Following health and safety guidelines is important to me, so I dispose of fish offcuts promptly and ensure bins are sealed tightly to keep the workspace clean and safe for everyone.

Employers ask this question to ensure you understand the importance of food safety and preventing harmful bacteria from spreading. You need to explain how you thoroughly clean and sanitize equipment like knives and cutting boards, keep raw and cooked fish separate, and maintain good personal hygiene by washing hands regularly and wearing gloves.

Example: To prevent cross-contamination, I always make sure all knives, boards, and surfaces are cleaned and sanitised between tasks. I keep raw fish separate from cooked or ready-to-eat products, storing them in different containers or areas. Good personal hygiene is key—I change gloves regularly and wear clean protective clothing to keep everything safe and fresh for customers.