7 Keys to Making a Great First Impression at the Cabin Crew Interview

This article was contributed to English for Cabin Crew
http://aviationenglishasia.blogspot.com by Angel

You have just been handed a once in a lifetime opportunity, you very first interview for the airline of you choice and a chance to land the job of your dreams! Now what? To be able to finally achieve your ultimate goal of becoming a cabin crew member, it is essential for you to have a successful interview. Airline representatives usually conduct the interview and they will be looking for those with the most potential. Today we will be discussing some interview questions the airline representatives can possibly ask and some tips to how we can answer them accordingly.

It is important to come very well prepared to the Cabin Crew interview. Remember, this is your chance to prove to them that you are the best candidate for the job. So as a general rule, here are some ways you can prepare yourself for that big day.

1. Research the Airline Company. As a general rule, this should always be the first step. Not only will you be able to determine if this company is the right one for you, it is also a very crucial element in determining if the interview will be successful or not. Not only will it impress the interviewer, but it can also prepare you so that you will be able to answer any questions regarding the airline if they will include it in your interview. So before the interview, be sure to review the airline company's website and read up on the company's background, future plans and other relevant information. It is also helpful to Google the company name and try to get some more information about the company.
2. Good Grooming. Interviews conducted by airlines usually require the applicant to be in Corporate Attire. So, if you don't already own a suit it is wise to invest in a good quality matching suit. Good grooming is also an essential preparation before the interview, if not the most important. Cabin Crew are considered as the official front-line representatives of the airline. Grooming must always be perfect. So aside from looking smart in your suit, be sure that you smell good (although it would be recommended to use mild and not overpowering perfume or colognes), your hair is neatly in place (the hair tied into a neat bun would be the best choice for women and a classic tapered haircut for men) and your fingernails are neat and trimmed. For women, it is best to have make up that is minimal, simple and not distracting. A properly groomed and neat outer appearance reflects self-confidence and professionalism to the interviewers.
3. Study your CV and other documents. Educational and professional background is always a part of the interview process and some interview questions will be according to the former. Be prepared to answer any questions confidently and thoroughly regarding dates of employment, why you left the company and when, etc. The interviewer wants to know about your past experiences and will be able to determine if you are the ideal candidate for the cabin attendant position.
4. Watch your body language. We can find a lot about a person by simply studying his body language. In order to exude a positive image, you have to watch your actions. Stay calm, smile, greet your interviewer confidently. You have to appear open and approachable, avoid negative body language (like slouching, avoiding the interviewer's eyes when answering a question, crossing your arms, etc.).
5. Mock Interview. In order to come fully prepared for the interview, why not practice? Try this with a friend or by yourself. Visualize how the interview will be, practice how you will act and what you will say, from the moment you greet the receptionist to the interview itself. Find out what possible questions they may ask and practice how you're going to answer them confidently. Study your posture, your gestures, your handshake, how you will enter or exit the interview room.
6. Be Punctual. Being punctual shows how responsible a person is. If the interview is to start at 8 am for example, be there at least 10 to 15 minutes early. If possible, before the interview day itself, try to visit the place where it will be held so you can calculate how much time you need to get there and avoid getting lost.
7. Your Exit. After the interview, remember to thank your interviewer, shake hands, turn and walk out. If it is possible, follow up by writing a thank you note and state once again your interest in becoming a member of their cabin crew team.
   

"Being forewarned is being forearmed" as the saying goes. Just as we shouldn't be caught unawares by any situation we may face, we should always come prepared to any interview we attend, especially to the Cabin Crew interview. Next time we will discuss what possible interview questions will be asked in the Cabin Crew interview.

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