I've been getting a few messages from people asking me for help or tips on how to ace the interview for the much coveted flight attendant job so I thought I'd blog about it instead. Don't get me wrong - I'm not an expert on the subject, but I do have a bit of experience both in being a recruiter and an interviewee so I still have some insights to share (which I hope will be useful in helping you guys out).
1. Wear business attire that fits just right.
I have two reasons for this. The first one is obvious - you want to look smart and presentable because first impressions count. Your looks are the first thing the interviewer sees, so you want to project a professional image that is fitting to the airline you're applying for. The second reason is that when you're wearing something that doesn't fit right, there is a tendency for you to feel uncomfortable which can affect your confidence or how you act during the interview. Besides, it's not very attractive to tug a short skirt down while walking towards the interviewer.
Personally, I think that it's better to be on the safe side when it comes to wearing business attire. Wear a blazer over a short sleeved blouse and knee-length skirt. Don't forget to wear high-heeled shoes to make your legs look longer!
2. Put your hair up in a bun.
Some airlines explicitly ask you to tie your hair up when you go for the interview but some don't. It's better to look neat and put together so whatever the case, fix your hair. Better to put it up in a bun than a ponytail because the latter is more casual-looking, and as I said, you want to make a good impression. Use gel to tame any stray hair.
3. Pile on the blush and show off your lips with shades of pink/red lipstick.
Airlines have grooming standards, and that usually means that the pale look is out.
A good airline doesn't just focus on how their would-be flight attendants should look like, but on the over-all package - communication skills, character, brains, and job fit. Being a flight attendant is more than providing customer service, it's about ensuring the safety of each and every flight. It means being able to multitask, monitor whatever is happening in the cabin and ensuring that passengers comply with the safety standards set by the airline. A flight attendant is a security officer, firefighter, first aider, and lifeguard all rolled into one!
As I said, it's important to make a good first impression, but it's more important that you're able to impress the recruiter up until you leave the interview room so you can secure the job.
4. Practice, practice, practice!
Now that you look the part, it's time to brush up on your communication skills and prepare for the actual interview part. Most interviewers would start by asking you to tell them something about yourself. Instead of just saying your age, school/course, previous work experiences, or reciting something straight out of your resume, try saying something about yourself that would help make you more memorable to the interviewer.
Remember that the purpose of the interview is also to check whether you're suited for the job so expect questions like "why do you want to be a flight attendant?" or "why do you want to work for us?" to pop up. Review your resume because the questions would most likely revolve around you (your work experiences, family background, educational attainment, and the like). Think of some challenges that you've had in the past and how you were able to overcome those challenges because interviewers (in any organization) want to know how you would fare in difficult situations. No one wants to hire a quitter. Review company information just in case questions about the company come up.
Giving one-word answers is a no-no during interviews. Elaborate! Speak in straight English, even if the interviewer is speaking in Filipino or Taglish. Do away with fillers such as "umm" or "ahh," if you're thinking of something to say, just pause until you come up with right word/s.
It's better to come early and be interviewed first so you have more time to impress the interviewer. An interview is about showcasing your skills and capabilities so it's better to take advantage of the time you've been given. Show them that you really want the job and that you're worth it!
5. Most importantly, SMILE!
You're trying out for a job that involves interacting with people 24/7 which means you always have to be pleasant whatever the circumstance. Greet everyone you meet and make eye contact to project an image of confidence.
Good luck!
P.S. In case you want to add anything to my list, feel free to add a comment below. :)
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