ACE YOUR INTERVIEW
On this process, everything depends – the interview is crucial. That’s why it’s important to pay special attention while reading this guide, as the information provided can significantly influence whether you start a career on a cruise ship in the coming months or reconsider a completely different direction.
An interview can be individual or group-based, depending on the company’s policy. Since cruise companies often change their procedures, it’s hard to predict the exact type of interview a candidate might encounter. However, it’s possible to prepare for what each of these processes entails.
Group Interview
Throughout their careers, many candidates have more frequently participated in group interviews than individual ones, and many agree that they prefer group interviews. Although participants are closely observed during a group interview, the pressure is lower as the attention is not focused solely on them. Group interviews are usually conducted in person, while individual ones are often online.
The first part of a group interview typically starts with an introduction to the company by the interviewer, followed by an overview of the position being applied for. After that, candidates have the opportunity to ask questions. It’s recommended to bring a notebook for taking notes, as using a phone for note-taking isn’t always acceptable—it can look like texting, which leaves a poor impression.
The next step usually involves candidates introducing themselves to the group. Each candidate is expected to stand up and present themselves to others. The purpose of this exercise is to assess candidates’ confidence in public speaking. While it’s not necessary to prepare a speech in advance, candidates should think about the basics they’ll mention – name, origin, previous work experience, and reasons for wanting the cruise ship position.
After that comes a practical exercise, which depends on the position applied for. For example:
- If the position is related to the spa center, candidates might need to demonstrate a treatment on a client.
- For sales-related positions, candidates may be asked to present a product.
- If applying for a kitchen job, candidates might need to prepare a dish within a limited timeframe.
- For receptionist positions, candidates may be tasked with resolving a guest complaint simulation.
This exercise aims to evaluate practical skills as well as teamwork abilities. Observers will assess how candidates work with others, whether they demonstrate leadership potential, how much they contribute to the team, and how flexible they are in collaboration.
At the end of the interview, there’s a Q&A session. The interviewer will ask additional questions to get to know the candidate better, such as: When can you start working? Why do you want this position? Candidates will also have the chance to ask questions about the job. It’s advisable to prepare some useful questions and think about the ones that are likely to be asked.
One-to-one Interview
The structure of a one-on-one interview is very similar to that of a group interview. The interviewer will begin by introducing the company and explaining the job position in more detail. The second part of the interview usually includes questions from the recruiter to assess the candidate’s suitability for the position.
The final part of the interview is an opportunity for the candidate to ask questions. It’s recommended to take advantage of this opportunity as it shows interest in the job and the company.
One-on-one interviews are usually shorter – lasting between 15 and 30 minutes, while group interviews can last longer, sometimes the whole day. This makes one-on-one interviews more efficient but also more challenging, as all the attention will be focused solely on the candidate. It’s important to leave the best possible impression throughout the interview.
Enthusiasm
Companies want to hire people who genuinely want to work for them. Many recruiters state they’d rather hire a candidate with less experience but the right attitude and enthusiasm than someone experienced who doesn’t care about the job.
A lack of relevant experience shouldn’t be a concern because it can be compensated by demonstrating genuine excitement for the job and the company. Passion is hard to fake, so it’s advisable to research cruise companies you’re applying to, as this knowledge will impress the recruiter.
If the job requires an application through an agency collaborating with multiple companies, it can be challenging to know which cruise line is the most suitable. However, researching the companies the agency works with and considering which aligns best with the candidate’s interests will help show enthusiasm during the interview. If the candidate doesn’t mind which company hires them, they should focus on showing passion for the position itself.
Dress well
Whether the interview is in person or online, the candidate must dress professionally. Proper attire creates a strong first impression and demonstrates a serious approach to the job.
The candidate’s appearance sends a message – the effort they put into their appearance reflects how much they care about the position. Companies are looking for people who genuinely care about the job.
Environment
If the interview is online, it’s important to conduct it in a quiet environment. Background noise can disrupt the interview and negatively affect the impression. It’s recommended to choose a distraction-free space and ensure that light comes from the front, either from natural light or a lamp. If the light comes from behind the candidate, the interviewer might struggle to see their face.
Take your time
During the interview, both the candidate and recruiter will have the opportunity to speak, so it’s not advisable for the candidate to let nervousness take over and interrupt the recruiter constantly. It’s important to actively listen to the recruiter without interrupting. This means not thinking about your response while the recruiter is speaking but instead fully focusing on what’s being said. Once the recruiter finishes, take a moment to consider your response. Silence during thought won’t be perceived negatively; on the contrary, it often shows that answers are being considered carefully.
Questions you should expect to be asked
A key part of every interview includes recruiter questions to assess whether the candidate is suitable for the position. Some of the questions you might be asked include:
Why do you want to work on cruise ships?
Umesto odgovora da bi putovali, bolje je reći nešto poput: “Sviđa mi se ideja da budem deo nečijih najlepših uspomena na odmoru.”
Why do you want to work for this cruise line/ company?
Highlight the unique aspects of the company that appeal to you.
Why do you think we should hire you to do this job?
This is your chance to showcase your qualities and traits that make you ideal for the position.
What qualities are you going to bring to the team?
Emphasize positive attributes such as organization, flexibility, and teamwork skills.
How would you handle a passenger complaint?
Demonstrate responsibility and calmness in resolving issues.
Questions You Can Ask
At the end of the interview, candidates will have the opportunity to ask a few questions, which gives them a chance to show interest in the job. Some questions you might ask include:
- What qualities are most important for success in this position?
- What is the payment system, and when can I expect my first salary?
- What is the process for salary deposits, and which bank account will payments be made to?
- What documentation must I provide before starting work?
- Are there any expenses covered by the company, or will I need to bear certain costs?
- Does the company cover travel and accommodation expenses before boarding the ship?
- How many working hours per day or week are standard for this position?
- How long does the process typically take before being assigned to a ship after receiving an offer?
- How long does a typical contract last, and how much vacation time can I expect between contracts?
- What does the cabin layout look like on the ship? Will I share a cabin or have my own?
- What is the team atmosphere like, and what do you enjoy most about working for this company?
Postavljanjem ovih pitanja, možete dobiti jasniju predstavu o uslovima rada i kompanijskoj kulturi, dok istovremeno pokazujete da ozbiljno pristupate ovom intervjuu.
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