Airlines are beginning to hire more flight attendants once again. For example, Emirates continues to stage cabin crew hiring events in the Philippines. However, the process is very stringent. Aspiring flight attendants face a competitive selection process, and preparation is key to success. Airlines look for candidates who can ensure passenger safety, provide excellent service, and represent the airline professionally. Hence, allow me to share some helpful tips for your next flight attendant recruitment and interview.
All these are based on my interviews with airline human resource team members, cabin crew managers, and trainers. These also include my personal observations during flight attendant recruitment events and interview days where airlines invite me to observe.
Tell Me About Yourself
One of the most common questions in cabin crew interviews is, “Tell me something about yourself.” Use the KISS principle: Keep It Short and Straightforward. Avoid recounting your entire biography or listing everything on your resume. Instead, share something unique about yourself that could catch the recruiters’ attention. This could be a hobby you excel in, an advocacy you are passionate about, or a unique experience. Recruiters assess your communication skills, visual impact, and what sets you apart.
Be Genuine
Avoid memorizing your answers or sounding scripted. Recruiters can easily tell if your responses are rehearsed. Speak from your heart and be yourself. Recruiters want to see the real you, not a rehearsed version. Answer questions as if you are having a conversation with a friend or passenger. Genuine answers resonate more with recruiters and help them understand who you are.
Grooming and Attire
Grooming is essential in the cabin crew recruitment process. Recruiters envision you wearing their uniform and representing the airline. Follow the specified dress code for interviews, typically business attire. Avoid wearing something that resembles the airline’s uniform, as it may come off as too imposing. Maintain a neat and professional appearance, and pay attention to details like hair, makeup, and accessories.
Consistent Smile
A flight attendant’s smile is part of their uniform. Maintain a warm and consistent smile throughout the interview process. Your smile helps create a welcoming and positive impression, which is important for the role of a flight attendant.
Greeting and Politeness
Greet everyone you see at the recruitment venue, especially recruiters and airline personnel. Your interaction starts the moment you enter the venue. Politeness and a friendly demeanor go a long way in making a positive impression. A simple greeting and a smile show that you are approachable and courteous.
Answering Questions
When asked why you want to be a cabin crew member, remember that the primary duty is ensuring passenger safety and security while providing comfort. Highlight your commitment to serving others and your genuine concern for passengers’ well-being. Recruiters look for candidates with a heart for service and hospitality.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Some airlines include group dynamics sessions in their recruitment process. These sessions involve group activities that assess your teamwork, collaboration, and communication skills. Participate actively, listen to others, and contribute constructively to the group’s efforts. Demonstrate your ability to work well with others and support your team.
Group dynamics activities may include problem-solving tasks that require critical thinking and decision-making. Approach these tasks with a calm and analytical mindset. Communicate your ideas clearly and consider different perspectives. Recruiters look for candidates who can think on their feet and work effectively in a team setting.
Passing a cabin crew interview requires thorough preparation, genuine interaction, and a professional presentation. Remember to stay positive and learn from each experience. Whether you succeed on your first try or after several attempts, dedication and persistence will help you achieve your dream of becoming a flight attendant.
Let me also remind you that at the end of the day, your success will depend on your overall performance. While these tips will be helpful during your flight attendant interview, everything will always depend on the airline and if they see that you are fit for the role to become their cabin crew.
So, good luck! I hope these tips will help!
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!