With airlines in the Philippines continuously hiring cabin crew, it’s important to take note of the mistakes to avoid during an interview as more openings are expected this year with airlines expanding their capacity, reactivating grounded planes, and opening new routes. To increase your chances of landing a cabin crew job, being prepared and knowing what not to do during the interview is crucial.
A cabin crew interview is not as easy as some may think. In fact, it is a very stringent and challenging process. Out of 100 applicants, only 5 are usually selected. Therefore, it is essential to prepare yourself adequately for the interview. Here, I list down ten mistakes that could ruin your cabin crew interview.
Dressing Inappropriately
Dress to impress! You are applying for a flight attendant position, and airlines value perfect appearance and professionalism at all times. Wear a business-like skirt-suit with comfortable high heels. Don’t forget to put on mascara and lipstick. For gents, a suit, collared shirt, tie, and polished shoes will do the trick.
Barely smiling
A flight attendant’s smile is part of his or her uniform. If you don’t smile much, there is a slim chance that the airline will get you. You have to smile from the moment you step in the venue to show positivity and warmth. Your smile is crucial in becoming a cabin crew, so don’t forget to smile always.
Talking Negatively About Your Current or Past Employer
Avoid negative comments or gossips about your current or previous employers. It’s a turn-off to interviewers. No company would want to take the chance that you might go around badmouthing them. If asked, give a diplomatic answer why you left your previous job, and keep the conversation light.
Not listening to The Interviewer
Listen carefully to the interviewer’s instructions, take notes if you wish, and clarify any doubts. Your interviewers may be former or present cabin crew members, so not paying attention to them is not just a pet peeve. It is also a sign of disrespect and a show that you are not genuinely interested in the job and the company.
Not Interacting With the Other Applicants
Make it a priority to interact with other applicants. You will be observed for the entire duration of your assessment day, so it’s important to be polite and approachable. A simple “hello” and a friendly smile can go a long way.
Being too Overconfident or Under Confident
Confidence is key, but remain humble. Interviewers are turned off by overconfident people who are not willing to listen and accept corrections. They also do not like underconfident people because as cabin crew members, you have to be able to control your passengers.
Cell-phone Ringing
Always switch your phone to silent mode, and if you need to take an important call, ask permission from your panelist or interviewer.
Consistently Checking the Time
Dedicate your whole day to your cabin crew assessment day. If your assessors notice that you keep checking the time, it will give the impression that you have other priorities on top. Remember, as a cabin crew member, you must be ready to work for up to 14 hours.
Asking About the Salary and Benefits too Early
It’s best to ask about career advancement, the company’s expansion plans, the fleet, work environment, and other relevant questions. Only ask about the salary and benefits towards the end if it has been established that you are what the company is looking for.
Your Enthusiasm is Missing
Be truly passionate about being a flight attendant. Show that it has been your lifelong dream and that you are always excited to travel, work with different people every day, learn new cultures, and most importantly, have that desire to be of assistance to others, especially when it comes to their safety on board.
A cabin crew interview is not an easy process, and it requires preparation and attention to detail to succeed. Dressing appropriately, smiling, listening to the interviewer, interacting with other applicants, being confident but humble, and showing enthusiasm are all important factors that can make or break your chances of getting hired.
Avoiding mistakes like talking negatively about your current or past employer, having your phone ringing, checking the time constantly, and asking about salary and benefits too early are all essential. By keeping these tips in mind, you can increase your chances of success and become a part of the exciting world of aviation as a cabin crew member.
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!
