Trial & interview tips
Coming to meet us?
First things first, don’t overthink it.
When we invite you into Sprout, it’ll usually be a mix of a chat and a paid trial.
It gives us a chance to get to know you, but just as importantly, it gives you a proper feel for the restaurant, the team and what working at Sprout is actually like.
We’re not looking for perfect interview answers or years of hospitality experience. We care much more about your attitude, how you work with people and whether you’re willing to learn.
Before you come in
Know the role
Have another look over the job you applied for. Think about the hours, location and type of work involved, and make sure it feels right for you too.
Have a little look at Sprout
Check out our restaurants, food and social channels before you come in. You definitely don’t need to memorise our menu, but having a feel for what we do helps.
Think about a few examples
We might ask about times you’ve worked as part of a team, dealt with a difficult situation, helped someone out or learned something new.
It doesn’t have to be from hospitality. College, sport, another job or everyday life all count.
Come as yourself
There’s no need to arrive in a suit. Wear something comfortable and presentable. We’ll let you know beforehand what you’ll need for the trial part of your visit.
What happens when you come in?
We’ll usually start with a chat.
We want to hear a little about you, what you’re looking for, what you enjoy and how you like working with other people.
This isn’t about catching you out or looking for rehearsed answers. Real examples and a proper conversation tell us much more.
And make sure you ask us questions too. Ask about the team, shifts, training, progression or anything else that matters to you.
Then, we’ll get you involved in the restaurant.
The trial
Your trial will usually take place around our lunch rush.
It’s the busiest part of our day, so it gives you the best possible feel for Sprout: the pace, the customers, the food and how the team works together.
You’ll spend some time with the team, see how the restaurant operates and get involved in some of the day-to-day action.
And yes, your trial is paid.
What are we looking for?
You don't need to know how to make the perfect Sprout bowl on day one.
We’re much more interested in:
How you interact with people - are you warm, friendly and comfortable getting involved?
How you work with the team - do you communicate, help out and listen?
Your attitude - are you curious, positive and willing to learn?
How you handle the pace - lunch can get busy. We don’t expect perfection; we want to see how you respond.
Whether you enjoy it - this matters too. Can you see yourself working here?
It works both ways.
While we’re getting a feel for you, you should be getting a feel for us too.
Look around. Talk to the team. Ask questions. See what the pace feels like.
By the end of your visit, we want you to have a much clearer idea of whether Sprout feels like somewhere you’d enjoy working.
What happens afterwards?
We’ll get back to you as soon as we can after your visit.
If it’s a yes from both sides, we’ll send over your offer and start getting everything ready for your first day.
And if it isn't the right fit this time, that's okay too. We want the experience to be clear and respectful from start to finish.
Some faq's
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Do I get paid for my trial?
Yes. You’ll be paid for your time, and food is on us too.
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Do I need experience?
Depends on the role. For leadership roles we do require some experience. For our Team member roles? Nope. We care more about attitude than experience. If you bring energy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, we’ll teach you the rest.
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What are the hours like?
We’re mainly a daytime business, so no late nights. Shifts can vary per location, but expect a mix of weekdays and some weekend work.
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What’s the team like?
Supportive, energetic, and not afraid of a bit of chaos. People look out for each other, and there’s always a bit of craic along the way.
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What’s a typical day like at Sprout?
Fast, busy, and full of people. You’ll be serving customers, prepping food, keeping things moving, and working closely with your team, especially during the lunch rush
(12–2pm… it’s go time).
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Is it busy?
It can be intense at times. But it’s the good kind, the kind where you’re in it with the team, pushing through together.