What the Course Entails and Exam Details

This certification process does not just test theoretical knowledge; it validates hands-on proficiency in every crew position within the restaurant. The preparatory course is comprehensive, often lasting eight to twelve weeks in a certified training store.

The core areas covered include:

• Operational Standards (QSC): Deep knowledge of product preparation for chicken, biscuits, and "fixin's," including specific temperature requirements, holding times, and portion controls (e.g., proper ladle size for gravy).

• Customer Hospitality: Mastery of service goals (e.g., dining room service times) and conflict resolution models, such as the BLAST method (Believe, Listen, Apologize, Solve, Thank).

• Food Safety and Sanitation: Strict adherence to ServSafe principles, including proper handwashing procedures, cooling parameters, and health code compliance.

• Leadership and Management Skills: Fundamental management concepts including cash handling procedures (e.g., drawer verification, handling large bills), suggestive selling techniques (up-selling), labor law awareness, and shift deployment.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The Bojangles Field Exam is a rigorous, two-part assessment designed to ensure you are ready for the pressure of leadership. You must demonstrate competence in both classroom knowledge and real-world execution.

Here are the specific details you need to know:

• The Written Component: This section features multiple-choice and true/false questions covering all operational procedures, safety protocols, and hospitality guidelines. You must know specific details, such as the proper drive-through greeting, cash drawer limits, and ventilation requirements for packing biscuit sandwiches.

• The Practical Component (Timed Skills Tests): You will be observed and graded on your ability to perform crucial crew tasks efficiently and correctly. This includes timed drills for biscuit making, chicken packing, and station setup. Mistakes during these practical tests are treated as learning moments, but consistent failure to meet time standards can prevent passing.

• Passing Score Requirement: Because this is a leadership role, the standards are high. You must achieve a score of 90% or higher on the overall Field Exam to be eligible for Shift Leader certification.

• Time Limits: While the written portion has a flexible time limit, the physical skills tests have strict, precise time parameters that must be met.

How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation for the Field Exam must combine traditional study with intense, active practice. Do not wait until the end of your training to begin studying.

Actionable Study Strategies:

• Utilize Internal Flashcards: Focus intensely on creating flashcards for specific procedures, cooking temperatures, service times, and holding times. For example, memorize the temperature range for chicken at the packing station (115°F-120°F).

• Master the Acronyms: Be able to recall and explain the BLAST method instantly for handling complaints.

• Practice Under Pressure: During non-peak hours, ask your manager to time your biscuit making or chicken packing as if it were the final test. Speed with accuracy is the key.

• Shadow Existing Leaders: Observe how current Shift Leaders manage the flow of the kitchen and interact with customers. Ask them about their experience taking the exam.

• Review the Manuals: Regularly go over the Bojangles security guide, loss prevention protocols, and Human Resources guidelines provided during your onboarding.

Exam Centers:

Because this is an internal company certification, you will not take the exam at a public facility like Pearson VUE. The Bojangles Field Exam is administered internally at certified training restaurants. Your Store Manager or a designated Field Training Manager will supervise the practical skills tests and facilitate the written examination via the company’s internal training portal.

Job Opportunities from the Course

Successfully passing the Bojangles Field Exam directly unlocks the first critical step into restaurant leadership. This certification is a prerequisite for moving up the career ladder within the company.

Passing this exam unlocks the following job titles and career paths:

• Shift Leader (immediate next step upon certification)

• Assistant Manager

• General Manager

• Area Director

• Field Training Manager

By mastering this material, you are not just passing a test; you are demonstrating that you have the skills, dedication, and operational knowledge required to run a successful Bojangles restaurant. Good luck with your preparation—it's Bo time!