The manager gave me a call and just asked a few basic things—where I’d worked before, what kind of food I’m comfortable with, and when I’d be available to start. It was pretty casual. A couple of days later, they invited me in for an interview at the restaurant. I sat down with the head chef and the owner. They asked about my experience, how I handle pressure during busy services, and what I’d do in situations like short staffing or running out of ingredients. They also wanted to know how I keep things clean and organized in my station.

I had applied online, through the Cheesecake Factory website, for a position in the back of the house of the restaurant, which was easier than I thought it would have been. After about two weeks I got a call for an interview. Depending on who else they called they might seat you outside with two tables between each person. (It was only me and another guy that applied for FOH). Talked for a while got asked about how'd you hear about the job, past experience, why I wanted to work there. After the interview, which took less than 30 minutes I got offered a position.