Panera Bread General Manager Interview Questions
& Process

I was called the morning after applying online to set up an interview. I got there about 10 minutes early, but had to wait around 40 mins for the HR person to be ready. Once we sat down, they asked some basic questions about my interests and background. The next 30 minutes were spent talking about music and movies, with no questions about my work history. When I asked about the job specifics, like a typical day, the exact location for the new store, and expected sales, they couldn't provide any answers. I got a rejection letter by mail three weeks later. I didn't think the interview was fair because it didn't cover anything about the job or my experience. It was really disappointing because the employees I met seemed happy working there.

The interview process was very long, but in my case, it was due to a location issue that required me to interview with several directors. For management roles, you're expected to live centrally within your district to be able to work at any location if needed. Following that, there's a working interview where you go in and work for four hours to see if you fit with the team. It's a good way for both you and them to gauge the situation, and it's best if you really get involved and work rather than just standing around. It gives you a solid idea of what you're getting into and if you enjoy it. They are very direct, and from what I hear, they interview a lot, so do your best and make a strong impression. I found out during the interview that they only hire management at the Assistant level; all positions above that are filled by internal promotions.

I saw an ad for assistant manager on Craigslist and applied because they are aggressively hiring in my area. A few days later, I got an email or call to come in for an interview. I met with the district manager first, and they referred me to HR after the interview. The interview was casual and friendly, held in the restaurant's dining room. I marketed my skills for the position and mentioned my recent business management degree and eagerness to start my career. They value ambitious individuals ready to work hard. They are opening new stores and promote from within, so they look for future General Managers when hiring Assistant Managers. Later that week, HR called for a drug test, and then they made a salary offer of 33k. With free meals, 45-hour weeks (with potential for a few extra hours, but nothing crazy so far), good training, and a great brand/atmosphere, it's a fair offer for my first career job. Plus, you're eligible for benefits and store bonuses after 90 days.