Do you have demands from your personal life that would make traveling for months at a time difficult?
As detailed on their site, "a contract ranges anywhere from three to approximately eight months, depending on the position. Most senior management roles have 4-month contracts while most of the rest of the positions have 6-8 month contracts." So, to help them attract and retain top talent, Royal Caribbean advertises that they "maintain a world-class compensation and benefits package that's among the most generous in our industry. In addition, we go to extra lengths to support the health and wellbeing of our employees at work and at home."
"I have already prepared my family for the fact that I may be away for a few months at a time. They are very excited for me and think this will be an unforgettable experience. I am not new to travel so being away from home will not be an issue for me, regarding homesickness, for instance."
"I have already lined up care for my dog, and a temporary housemate to help me with the cost of rent and home maintenance while I am away. This opportunity is a great one for me and those who matter the most, fully understand how important it is that I succeed and feel supported. Everyone is doing their part to make it work."
Often out for weeks or months at a time, all employees are expected to "live onboard for the total length of their contracts." So, your interviewer needs assurances that you have thoroughly thought through whether this opportunity is the right fit for you. They are only interested in bringing you onboard if you can "satisfy the basic requirements of your assignment." So examine your lifestyle, and any personal demands or family matters that could potentially complicate living shipboard and being away for long periods of time. Come fully prepared to answer this question honestly. The only way to do this with sincerity is first being completely honest with yourself.
"I live a pretty simple lifestyle with few attachments. I have lived away from my parents and siblings for years now, so there's no problem there. As for my apartment, I Airbnb it while I am away and have reliable cleaners check in on it and take care of it. So there is nothing holding me back."
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