The Introduction
One of the most overlooked aspects of an interview is the introduction. Again, this includes not only the way you introduce yourself to the interviewer, but the way you introduce yourself to the interviewer's secretary and other individuals in the waiting room.
You should introduce yourself to the receptionist and sign in (if necessary) upon arrival. You should state who you are and the reason for your visit. Be congenial, but do not be a nuisance by trying to make small talk.
Take a seat after you are invited to do so and try to be as professional as you can. This includes not talking on your cell phone (turn it off, so you won't get a call), not listening to your Walkman, not smoking or chewing gum, and not trying to be a comedian among the other candidates.
When it comes time to meet the interviewer, you should enter the room, exchange introductions and offer a firm handshake. The handshake is extremely important. Do not make the mistake of offering what we call the limp "fish hand" to the interviewer; this makes for a very bad impression.
This does not mean you should offer a "vice-grip," but it should be a firm, comfortable handshake, showing your enthusiasm for meeting the interviewer and for being invited to the interview itself. At this point, you should not be seated until invited to do so.
Body Language & Attitude
Body language and attitude are critical elements during an interview. Two people can respond equally well to an interviewer's questions, but have very different outcomes due to body language and attitude.
For example, if you answer questions without looking at the interviewer, this indicates you are very shy and lack confidence, not particularly desirable qualities of a flight attendant.
Similarly, if you do not maintain comfortable eye contact while the interviewer is speaking, it indicates a lack of attentiveness.
If you fold your arms, it indicates you are very defensive. So, if you truly want to make a positive impression during your interviews, be very aware of your non-verbal behavior; make sure you sit with good posture, limit your hand-gestures, do not fold your arms, and maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
In addition, do not say or do anything that would indicate you are egotistical or have a bad attitude. At the close of every interview, always thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Desirable Qualities of a Flight Attendant
Airlines seek applicants who possess certain qualities that make them ideally suited for a flight attendant career. Knowledge of these qualities will make it easier for you to compose your resume and complete your application, as well as interview more successfully.
Use or relate to these terms as much as possible in your resume, on your application, and during your interview(s):
Friendly Flexible Mature Outgoing Poised Eloquent Patient Sensitive Tactful Honest | Loyal Decisive Motivated Neat Energetic Aware Punctual Responsible Adaptable Dependable Intelligent |
