The first stage of the SIA cabin crew interview which is usually the self introduction round is one of the most difficult to pass. I have dubbed it as a "killer" round.
I will not be touching on the other stages of the interview.
Most of the time not many out of the 10 candidates would pass that round.
The average number of candidates who would pass is around 3.
If one fails the first stage it's the end of the interview.
My advice is to prepare for this killer round by seeking professional help if you
are not confident of passing it. You may want to buy my $60 e-guide or attend my seminar/talks.
Besides the self introduction, you may have to answer 1 generic question.
The question could be anything from " If you have to be a celebrity for a day who do you want to be and why?" " What do you usually have for lunch and
why?"
" What are the places in Singapore would you bring a tourist and why?" ....you must not forget to tell answer the "WHYs".
Besides giving the correct answers to the above questions there are other elements you have to get right with. I am talking about your body language as well as your tone of voice etc.
You may speak perfect English and be confident and still get booted out. Why is that so? Well, there are other factors the interviewers may consider too. Factors like having the humility to serve, bubbly personality, maturity and steadiness as well as team spirit are some of the important attributes the interviewers will be looking for.
There are 9 other candidates besides yourself at this round. In order to attract the attention of the interviewers you need to do an interesting self introduction. The stereo types like " my hobbies are reading, surfing the Internet....so on and so forth" will bore the interviewers and less likelihood to get their attention. If you can't get their attention then you would've missed the chance to show them your
hidden qualities and talent.
So bear in mind that an interesting self introduction and good answers to their question would get their attention. When the interviewers are interested in what you say or present, they will pay attention to you. That's where you could show your best and be short listed for the next stage of the interview.
Remember to tell them what sort of talent you possess eg. if you are or were a very capable runner/sprinter, footballer, net ball player, an efficient cheer leader etc. please tell them during this first round of the interview. Do not be boastful but rather tell them in a humble manner. They do not like boastful and cocky people to be their cabin attendants.
First impression is very important too. So do dress up in a proper manner. Wear something attractive like the correct colour match for your clothing. Light colours are preferred. Hair must be neat and for the ladies some make up is desired.
A genuine warm lasting smile is equally important too.
Be cheerful and treat the interview as something that you would enjoy. Rehearse in front of your mirror the things you are going to say at the interview and watch your body language. A little bit of hand gesture is fine but not too much.
Good luck.
Luke Tan (former SIA interviewer and cabin crew executive).