Job Searching Tips

The Secret to Getting a Dunkin’ Donuts Job

By: Melanie Bacallao
Dec 29, 2020 • 10 min read

The Secret to Getting a Dunkin’ Donuts Job

Dunkin’ Donuts is a leader amongst other restaurant-chains worldwide when it comes to grabbing a quick bite and a coffee. If you feel a strong synergy with their brand, you’ll enjoy working with them as well. Dunkin’ Donuts emphasizes leadership and teamwork in a cooperative environment to get the job done. Getting a job at Dunkin’ Donuts means that you have the opportunity to engage in an exciting and rewarding position! So, what’s the secret to getting hired at this fun and collaborative restaurant chain?

The Perfect Dunkin’ Donuts Employee

As mentioned previously, Dunkin’ is a strong advocate for leadership and collaboration in the work environment. Therefore, you must also share similar traits or persuade the hiring manager that you’re capable of doing so. On the Dunkin’ Donuts website, regardless of what role you apply for, an employee is responsible for “delivering great and friendly guest experiences.” Customer service defines their brand, and they want to make sure that new hires meet these expectations. If you can mention these skill sets on your resume and during the interview process, your application will be highly considered amongst a wide pool of candidates for a Dunkin’ Donuts job. 

Job Description

A general note for applying to jobs is to look for keywords in the job description. Typically, a brand’s job description of a role tends to match verbatim on their career page as well. If you want to go the extra mile, look through the Dunkin’ Donuts career page. There you’ll find other valuable assets or skillsets that you can mention on your resume, cover letter, or interview. In this case, Dunkin’ mentions that they “run on teamwork, community, team member perks, and you.”

By optimizing your resume to include these keywords, you’ll thin out the competition! Remember to bring in your own personal experiences with the skillsets you’ve mentioned during your interview. Character is something that hiring managers look into. If you’re seen as empathetic and energized to uphold Dunkin’s brand, then you have a higher chance of being selected!

baked doughnuts with sprinklers

Core Values

The founder of Dunkin’ Donuts, Bill Rosenberg, created a guideline for employees to follow — his company’s values. Reflective of the Dunkin’ Donuts brand’s quality, these qualities are also sought out in potential hires. According to Dunkin’, these are qualities that “exhibit superior character”:

  •     Honesty: Be candid with yourself and others.
  •     Fairness: Always do the right thing, even if it’s difficult to do so.
  •     Responsibility: Own up to the outcome regardless if it’s good or bad.
  •     Transparency: Share your thoughts and opinions.
  •     Respect: Treat others how you want to be treated.
  •     Integrity: Show exemplary character.
  •     Humility: Remember that you’re a part of the team and that community comes first.

Some of these things may not fit on your resume or cover letter. Instead, you can use the opportunity to elaborate on some of these core values during your interview! Employers love to hear how you’ve put your skills to the test in your previous positions. You’ll be able to let your personality shine through during your interview in a way that can’t be done on paper. Be sure to incorporate the core values listed above when talking about your skills and traits. 

Interview Responses

There’s much to talk about when it comes to an interview. Therefore, you want to make sure that your answers are both detailed and concise. Enough for your hiring manager to know, but constrained enough to make your hiring manager eager to learn. Be sure to always prepare your responses before the interview! Review commonly asked interview questions and get familiar with company expectations. Remember, preparing for your interview is all about building confidence. If you feel prepared, it will show when it comes time to talk with your potential employer! 

Templates to Explore 

We gathered these templates to ensure that you give the most qualified response during your interview! Make sure to incorporate your own personal experiences or additional information you want your hiring manager to know!

Here are examples you can use to show that you’re a potential star employee for a job at Dunkin’ Donuts:

  •     I am a distinguished team player. I have the spirit of leadership, and I make sure that my team members are up to pace. If there is no collaboration, then there is no way a company can succeed. I believe that my indulgence in teamwork and leadership can foster Dunkin’s growth.
  •     From my previous job, I have learned what it means to provide excellent customer service. I have been commended by my former boss for my integrity and responsibility. I seek to offer valuable experiences to both new and loyal customers—my former boss’s letter of recommendation further details my experiences.
  •     Though I never had experience in the workforce, I know that my traits match your brand’s values. My school has given me awards for my exemplary character. I am also part of the Phi Beta Kappa, a prestigious honors group that only selects people with excellent morals. I am confident that my character will prove an asset to your team.

woman in black long sleeve shirt sitting on chair

Dunkin’ Donuts Awards and Recognition

If you want to bring more knowledge to the table, you can research various things about a brand. Since Dunkin’ Donuts is a popular franchise, you can find plenty of things to talk about. One of the things Dunkin’ prides itself on is its awards and partnerships.

Talking about accomplishments that the brand has achieved can significantly boost your credibility. Employers love to hear applicants list off a fact or two that proves they have researched the company. This shows that the candidate went a step further to learn more about what it means to be a good employee and take the opportunity to be hired very seriously. This will only help your case!

Here are some awards and organizations you can bring up during the interview:

  •     Ranked #1 in Coffee and Baked Goods, Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500
  •     Ranked #1 in Customer Loyalty, Brand Keys Customer Loyalty Index
  •     Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, a self-powered charity that funds organizations that help serve hungry kids.
  •     Ranked #1 in Airport Franchisor, Airport Franchisor

Interview Responses to Highlight Your Research 

You have the opportunity to use one or multiple of these recognitions in your favor. If you really want this job at Dunkin’ Donuts, utilizing any of these points will impress the hiring manager with your extensive knowledge. It shows commitment and loyalty to the brand and appreciation for the opportunity to apply.

Here are some examples of interview responses using Dunkin’s recognition:

  •     I have researched that your brand excels at customer service. In fact, it is ranked at number one for customer loyalty. I admire and pledge to offer my assets to uphold that rank and even increase customer loyalty retention.
  •     When I was younger, I used to travel a lot with my parents. I remember always being exhausted from jet lag. When I tried the Dunkin’ inside the airport, I felt instantly revitalized. Dunkin’ has always made travel easier for me, and I can see why it’s ranked highly as an airport franchisor.
  •     Every time I visited a Dunkin’, I was always impressed with how I could donate to Dunkin’ Joy. I appreciate your brand’s efforts and good morale in helping hungry kids. Because of this, I make sure to donate each time. The ethics and character Dunkin’ displays has motivated me to join the team.

Dunkin’ Donuts History

There are over 11,000 Dunkin’ locations worldwide — 8,500 in the United States and 3,200 international ones across 36 countries. There are bound to be some minor differences in the application process, depending on your location. Regardless, historical facts remain the same anywhere. You can astound hiring managers with your ability to tell peak moments in the Dunkin’ franchise’s lifespan.

If you’re a traveler, you can talk about the similarities or differences you see in Dunkin’ between countries. Do the employees hold up to the brand’s core values, or do they exceed them? Is there a Dunkin’ you’ve visited throughout the years? Do you remember when they implemented new menu options? This subtle yet historical information can be your leverage in an interview.

Employers want to hire applicants who feel passionate about the company and brand mission. If you enjoy the products they offer, you will come across as an enthusiastic candidate! Feel free to share a story about visiting a local Dunkin’ Donuts or a childhood memory about visiting the store.

two doughnuts topped with sprinkles

Mission Statement

Each brand has its unique mission statement. Yet, not many candidates use this information to their advantage in an interview, simply because it’s niche information. Dunkin’s mission statement is “to be the leading provider of the wide range of delicious beverages & baked products around the kingdom in a convenient, relaxed, friendly environment that ensures the highest level of quality product and best value for money.”

This mission statement reveals several things; Dunkin’ prioritizes customer satisfaction and being a leading provider. Showing that you can nurture their mission statement can impress hiring managers, especially since not many candidates have considered doing this. It makes you distinct and separates you from the pool. Introducing niche or unique responses to your hiring manager, in general, will make an unforgettable impression on them.

Here is an example of incorporating this for an interview response:

  •     Dunkin’s mission statement is something I resonate with. Customer service and enjoyment are the most crucial aspects of any role under Dunkin’, and I pledge to fulfill them. I have always been a people person, so I know how to prioritize someone’s enjoyment first and foremost.

Attire

To impress your hiring manager with your attire, make sure to show up with semi-casual clothing. You’d want to dress professionally, but not overboard either. A button-up shirt and khaki pants are a safe choice. Wear clothes that do not have logos, designs, or eccentric patterns. Casual pants or skirts are nice to bring along.

Remember, wearing professional attire to the interview will most your credibility and serve as a mutual sign of respect. Wearing nice clothing will show that you want to present yourself in a qualified way and put extra time into making sure your appearance is appropriate for the meeting.

First impressions matter! How would you feel if you showed up to an interview in clean, ironed clothing, only to see the interviewer wearing sweatpants and a baggy tee? What would you think about the company culture that the store has? This might be a turn-off and make you not want to apply for the role. Remember this when picking out an outfit to wear to your next interview!

Interview Process for Getting a Job at Dunkin’ Donuts

The interview process for Dunkin’ is typically informal and laidback. These interviews typically last from 15 to 20 minutes. It’s a short timespan to impress the hiring manager! Therefore, you have to make the most of your time. You need to rely on concise answers that nail the subject of each question.

In terms of applying for the position, make sure you bring your documents to the actual interview! It’s more for a precautionary measure. You have to be at least 16 years old to work at Dunkin’, 18 if you’re applying for a manager position.

It is also possible to get hired on the spot! This can happen if you’ve really impressed your hiring manager. We recommend you always bring proper identification and necessary bank information to your interview. This way, if these documents are requested by your employer, you’ll be able to complete the hiring process at the interview. 

getting hired at dunkin' donuts

Interview Questions

Much like Dunkin’s core values, hiring managers will ask similar questions. Besides asking general information such as past jobs, interest, and scheduling, they also ask other distinct questions.

These questions will likely be related to the company culture, brand, expectations, and core values. This is another important reason to get familiar with the company standards before arriving at your interview! Feel free to also review the job posting when preparing for your interview, too.

Dunkin’ Donuts hiring managers want to see the following:

  •     How you respond to a team-oriented, fast-paced environment. This is essential for many service-related establishments.
  •     Your answer to service industry examples. Hiring managers make up situations of a problem occurring, and they want to measure how you would respond.
  •     How professional and courteous your manners are during the interview. Exemplary character is something Dunkin’ is critical of.
  •     The sincerity in your responses. Candidness and transparency are two of Dunkin’s core values.
  •     Your awareness of the Dunkin’ menu and products. Though they have a training course, they might not go over each menu option. Brand knowledge is important!

Questions to Ask

Make sure to ask questions right after the interview! Dunkin’ appreciates interest in the brand. While you want to express your curiosity, do not ask too many to take time away from their next interview. Questions can range from availability, hours, and schedule. As a result, you will come across as a serious candidate passionate about landing the position! 

  • Can you elaborate more on the perks Dunkin’ has to offer?
  • What does a typical workday look like?
  • Do you offer flexibility based on your personal schedule?
  • Can you tell me the average amount of hours a full-time employee works at Dunkin’?

Dunkin’ Donuts Perks

If you find yourself not having as many questions to ask, you can always question the perks they offer and ask for some clarity. Dunkin’s perks may be exclusive to part-time roles. Ask your hiring manager for clarification of Dunkin’s perks.

Dunkin’s perks include:

  • Flexible hours.
  • Training & Development Opportunity.
  • Paid Time off.
  • Discounts.
  • Bonuses.
  • Healthcare. (Health insurance, dental, etc.)
  • Tuition assistance. (Or other educational-related perk)

Flexible hours and tuition assistance make this a great first job for teens or college students to make extra money. If you want to gain more responsibility and become more financially independent, consider applying for a part-time position at Dunkin’ Donuts!

getting hired at dunkin' donuts

Interview Checklist 

An upcoming interview can make you nervous, but make sure to do a checklist! You want to be prepared to ace the interview. After all, you have 20 minutes to make a good impression. Here are some things you should have on your checklist:

  • Interview attire
  • Documents
  • Transportation
  • Questions to ask
  • Study a script
  • Practice your interviewing skills
  • Professional mannerism
  • Great and curious attitude

Having a checklist and committing to it can allow you to speak about personal organization and timeliness skills. Make sure to take breaks in between! Don’t cramp up information in one day! Tiredness can show in your body language during your interview. You want to make sure that you look your best!

Follow-Up

After you complete your interview, make sure to follow up with a call or email! Again, Dunkin’ appreciates curiosity. Immediate employment or high-capacity can directly affect their hiring ability. This means if you get rejected, it might be due to current employment situations. Regardless, send them a message to thank them for the opportunity. If you are rejected, feel free to ask for feedback regarding your application and interview. As a result, you’ll be better prepared for next time to get your job at Dunkin’ Donuts!

Have you ever worked at a Dunkin’ location? Connect with us on social media and let us know!

More to Explore:

3 Step Interview Checklist 

Perks to Offer Employees

How to Answer: Why Did You Apply For This Job?

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