Current Context of Airline Industry
COVID-19 has taken a severe toll on the economic well-being of various professions. One of the industries that suffered tremendous losses was the airline industry. Many cabin crew members have been made redundant, which means securing a cabin crew position now has become much more difficult. This informative piece compiles a few common questions that airline employers ask aspiring flight attendants. Sample answers are provided as well, hoping that this takes some of the pressure of the job application process for becoming a flight attendant.
Common Interview Questions and Sample Answers for Becoming a Flight Attendant
Questions About the Candidate
- Tell me about yourself.
This question is one of the most common interview questions, and interviewers ask it across all fields and occupations. This simple inquiry helps recruiters get a glimpse of the candidate’s character traits.
The best way to answer this question is to be professional and to refrain from citing personal anecdotes. Discuss the nature of your most recent job or talk about your career plan if you have recently graduated. Answer this question in such a way that highlights your most positive traits. In addition, showcase your passion for this industry and line of work. A simple trick is to tailor the response to the job description.
A sample answer could be: “I am a flight attendant with over five years of experience in this field. I am commanded for my strong work ethic and my respectful demeanor. I am passionate about traveling, and I enjoy new cultural experiences.”
- What languages do you speak?
In many cases, when you, an aspiring flight attendant, apply for a cabin crew job, you will have to pass language assessment tests. This fact is important to remember so that you answer truthfully. Interviewers find that speaking more than one language is an asset, especially in a career where customers are of different nationalities. To answer this question, mention what languages you are fluent in and what languages you are still trying to grasp.
A possible answer is: “I am fluent in English and Arabic. I have currently learning Spanish to expand my skill set.”
- What are your views on (a specific disputed topic)?
When interviewing candidates for a customer service position, employers will ask for your take on a controversial topic to see whether you can answer in an unproblematic manner. For example, the employer might ask for your opinion on a political or religious matter. The best way to answer this question is to pretend that it is being asked by someone whose background and affiliation you do not know. This fact means that to answer it, you should resort to diplomatic and politically correct answers that do not cause anyone to take offense.
To answer this question, you can say something along the lines of “to each their own.”
- Are you fond of new environments?
Employers often ask this question, especially when they find candidates applying for a job requiring an incredibly open mind. A cabin crew occupation calls for a flight attendant who can stay on top of a hectic schedule and conduct day-to-day tasks in foreign countries. In addition, another main criterion for a flight attendant is profound respect and appreciation for different cultures. You are urged to convey their love for new environments and to show their adaptability skills.
A suitable answer may be: “I appreciate that my job has allowed me to be open to many cultures and new environments. Every time I land in a new place, I try to leave the hotel to explore my surroundings. I enjoy mingling with locals when I arrive at a new destination, and I do not shy away from new experiences.”
Situation Management
- How would you handle a passenger who does not want to adhere to precautions and measures?
This question gives you a chance to prove that you know how to deal with incompliant customers while maintaining your composure. You can say that you would kindly ask the passenger to follow the rules and explain why the rules are necessary for safety purposes. Interviewers usually ask such questions to assess how you conduct yourself under pressure and how you put your communication skills to use. When answering this question, you should show that you will do whatever it takes to ensure the safety of the passengers while maintaining your calmness.
You can say: “First, I would politely ask the passenger to maintain their composure so that other passengers are not bothered. Then I would explain how necessary it is to follow instructions, as it is a matter of protection. If the situation continues to escalate, I will resort to a senior cabin crew member so that appropriate measures can be taken.”
- What would you do in case of an emergency?
Interviewers want to know how you handle high-pressure scenarios because the cabin crew industry is not without difficulties. You can say that they will follow protocol in the event of an emergency. This means that you will ensure that they follow the safety instructions while ensuring that other passengers do the same. Ideally, you will maintain your composure and attempt to reassure passengers.
You can say: “I would first ensure that I have implemented the safety instructions for myself, and then I would initiate protocol. I would make sure that other passengers follow the instructions to maintain their safety while helping them control their thoughts and breath in case of anxiety attacks. “
The Candidate’s Take
- Why do you want to be a flight attendant?
It is vital to have an overview of the company you are applying to and the job description. It would be best if you found the commonalities between this job description and your career goals. An interviewer looks for a candidate who knows what the job entails and who has the passion for pursuing it. You are urged to well-research the role and the company before applying.
One possible answer is: “I have wanted to pursue this career for a long time now. I have the necessary skills to make me a successful flight attendant, and I am confident that your company can provide the proper environment that I need to thrive.”
- Why do you think you would make a good flight attendant? Why should we hire you?
This question is your chance to give your ego a boost. To answer it, you must think about your strong points and how they are befitting in the cabin crew environment. Discuss the relevant skills you possess, like your time management skills, polite demeanor, and your sense of hospitality. It is essential to show that you fully understand what it means to be a flight attendant.
A well-rounded answer is: “I am passionate about this line of work, and I put in the effort needed to promote success. I am confident that I have the essential competencies, given my 5-year experience working in customer service jobs.”
- Do you prefer working alone or as part of a team? Are you a team player?
Recruiters wish to know whether you can communicate effectively with others. It is necessary to show that you possess the necessary skills to be part of a team. You can mention that customer service relies on human interactions, and for those interactions to be successful, the efforts of all involved individuals are required.
One possible way to answer this question is: “I find that having multiple people unite their efforts is beneficial for the overall success of a certain project. As a flight attendant, I possess the open-mindedness and the cooperativeness that make me a team player. However, I do not shy away from stepping up and working on my own if I am tasked to do so.”
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What are your long-term plans?
Recruiters are more likely to offer a position to candidates who are committed to the company. If you plan to leave after a few years or gain some experience, you are better off not mentioning that in the interview.
One possible answer is: “I am looking forward to expanding my skill set in this company. In 5 years, I will want to enhance my responsibilities in the role I am given.”
Concluding Remarks
This list compiles an array of different interview questions that you might come across. Preparing for those questions can only be in your favor because being ready alleviates some of the pressure of distressing job applications and interviews. Make sure that you ask questions and not only answer them. You deserve to have a clear view of the job and the work environment you are about to become part of if all goes well. For example, you can ask about the nature of the training provided for new flight attendants. One last piece of advice is to dress for the part and to channel your inner confidence so that you can come off as approachable and secure at the same time.
Also read Flight Attendant Salary and Hiring Outlook
