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Cruise Ship
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Resume
& Interview Tips
Interview
Tips
Getting
Prepared
It is of utmost importance to prepare, practice and memorize the
answers that you will give to the interviewer's questions. When forming
your answers, be aware that the interviewer is concerned with what you
can and will do for the cruise line, not what the cruise line can do for
you. The interviewer will be most interested in your friendliness,
professionalism, dedication, teamwork and willingness to help the
public.
When
you are preparing answers for the interviewer's questions, stress
qualities related to the position you have applied for. Offer answers
that will make the interviewer remember you, but most importantly, be
honest. Here is a list of questions that you may be asked at the
interview with hints to help prepare your answers:
-
Why
do you want to work on a cruise ship?
HINTS: It's a challenging yet rewarding career. You enjoy being
around people. You realize the ups and downs of cruise ship life,
but you have the skills to do a great job.
-
What
makes you qualified for this position?
HINTS: Do you have a background in customer service? If so, mention
your excellent customer service skills and that you are ambitious,
motivated, committed, intelligent and a good team player.
-
What
are some of your strengths?
HINTS: Are you a hardworking, enthusiastic, motivated and happy
person? Do you have a positive outlook?
-
Name
one of your weaknesses?
HINTS: Always follow this answer with how you have overcome this
weakness.
-
How
would you describe yourself using one word?
HINTS: Use words such as positive, motivated or friendly.
-
What
do you know about our cruise line?
HINTS: This is a good opportunity to show off your research and
knowledge. Be prepared! "
-
Do
you like to travel?
HINTS: Obviously your answer should be 'yes' to this question.
-
Do
you have any questions for me?
HINTS: Always have an intelligent question ready. For example,
"Will this job prepare me for a higher-level position one
day?" or "How will my performance be judged?"
Phone
Interviews
Many of the cruise lines you apply to may be too far away to allow
for a personal interview. The most important key is to speak with
confidence, energy and enthusiasm. Convince the interviewer that you can
do the job. Your self-confidence will demonstrate that you would be a
valuable asset to their cruise line.
Personal
Interviews
An interview, whether in person or by phone, serves to show an
employer that you have the social and speaking skills necessary for
working with the public. The personal interview also gives you the extra
opportunity to demonstrate that you know how to dress and act properly.
It is a good idea to bring extra resumes for any others present at your
interview.
All
cruise lines look for socially skilled employees. When you arrive at
your interview, show patience and composure in waiting. If you are
nervous, use a relaxation technique such as deep breathing. Avoid
nervous habits like fidgeting, giggling or biting your nails. When you
meet the employer, shake his or her hand, and smile.
Tips
for a successful interview:
-
Arrive
early.
-
Dress
conservatively, similar to the cruise line's uniform.
-
Pay
attention to detail. For example, polish your shoes.
-
Women
should wear nylons if wearing a skirt.
-
Ensure
that your make-up and grooming are impeccable.
-
Do
not wear an excessive amount of jewelry.
-
Do
not chew gum or smoke.
-
Avoid
controversial subjects such as politics and religion.
-
If
you must disagree do so calmly.
-
Do
not speak negatively of past employers or colleagues.
The
interviewer is looking for creativity, sense of humor and your ability
to think on your feet. When asked a question for which you have prepared
an answer, pause before answering so you don't sound rehearsed. If you
are asked a question that you are unprepared for, sit back, think for a
moment before answering and be confident. There are usually no right or
wrong answers.
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