30 Swiss International Air Lines Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Swiss International Air Lines interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How does this position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Is this particular position a good fit? Is it a step up in your career or - a stagnant move that you are just complacent with taking until something better comes along? Assure the interviewer that this position will be challenging for you, is a step up in responsibilities, and that it fits with your overall career goals.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My primary goal in my career as a flight attendant is to become a senior team member and eventually train others in the airline industry. I feel that what SWISS offers is a strong path towards those goals and I am excited about what this position has to offer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This position offers the next steps in my career and the growth that I am ready for. I have spent the last couple of years attending additional coursework to get me here, and I'm excited to show SWISS what I can do!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
2. Which aspect of this role do you feel you need the most training?
How to Answer
Your answer to this question will tell the interviewer a lot about your skill level and where you will need the most training. Keep your answer related to one of the tasks outlined in the job posting but ensure that you do not mention one of the must-have skills. For instance, if you are interviewing for a customer service representative position, you would not want to say that you need the most training in customer service related skills. Mention a computer system that you would not have used, or perhaps another internal process specific only to SWISS. Be sure to add that you are confident in your ability to learn this skill quickly.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am confident in my skill level when it comes to the primary responsibilities of this role. What I believe I will need the most training in are your internal computer systems. I am tech savvy and confident that I will pick up on them quickly; however, they will be new to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love to learn new things, and so I am excited for the training I will receive at SWISS. The area where I will need the most training will be with Software ABC. This position will be my first exposure to the program. I have already watched a few online tutorials and am confident I will pick it up quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. Are you currently interviewing with any of our airline competitors?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how pressed they are to decide on your employment. You do not have to give all the details but be sure to create a bit of urgency when answering this question. You do not want to seem impossible to get, but you also do not want to appear desperate, or that you put all your hopes into this one opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have been actively interviewing; however, I am not in the final stage with any of your competitors. Could you share with me your timeframe for this hiring decision?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have interviewed with two others; however, your particular role is most exciting to me because of the destinations to which you fly as well as your carefully crafted workplace culture."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. Are you familiar with our flight benefits and other employee perks?
How to Answer
The interviewer is checking to see if you have researched their company and what is offered for employee benefits. Check out the SWISS website under their careers section and review their perks. Choose which aspects are the most exciting for you, and mention those.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am most excited about the flight benefits that you offer your employees as well as the fact that they are transferable to family members at certain times of the year. My parents live far away, and it would be a huge help to be able to fly them to see me now and then or vice versa."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"What stood out to me most about your employee benefits were the excellent medical coverages as well as the tuition reimbursement and continued education opportunities. The benefits package at SWISS is very generous."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Tell me about your exposure to diverse cultures, religious backgrounds, and gender identity.
How to Answer
SWISS is an equal opportunity employer, and you can be assured that the team you work on will be diverse in all ways. Tell the interviewer about your exposure to diversity - from your current or previous employment, your college experiences, or your own family. Express your support of others different from you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have been exposed to a vast range of diversity in my personal life, in college, and also in my current position with 'ABC Airlines.' I am a highly inclusive person who embraces diversity of all kinds."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Life would be boring if we were all the same! We embrace diversity fully, in my current position. I have friends and family with several types of backgrounds."
Written by Rachelle Enns
6. Would you be willing to relocate?
How to Answer
Depending on the needs of SWISS, relocation could be a conversation to be had in the future. If relocation were needed for this role, it would be mentioned in the job posting. Likely, the interviewer is asking to see if you would be transferable in the future, should they need your skills in another department and region.
Be honest and transparent in your answer. If relocation is needed for this role, then your answer must be yes- you DID apply! If this is more of a discovery question, answer in the best way you see fit.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand that relocation would not be required in this role. I do own a home here, and my spouse is gainfully employed. Relocation would be challenging although it is certainly not off the table for future discussion."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am free to relocate at any time. I am open to any adventure that comes my way! Are relocation options often offered with SWISS?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
7. What unique qualities about yourself would you bring to our company?
How to Answer
There are some things that your resume cannot do. Showing off your fabulous personality is one of them, for instance! Talk to the interviewer about some of your unique qualities and be sure to tie these qualities into how they will benefit the company, should they hire you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a unique ability to strike up a conversation and build rapport with nearly anyone. This skill is a great help when it comes to customer service and sales. My up-selling percentages are always very high."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have a strong ability to lead teams of people no matter their background or personality. I can relate to many people because I approach them on their level and get to know them in a way they are most comfortable."
Written by Rachelle Enns
8. How will you earn the trust of your coworkers?
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are important to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Here are some ways that you can build trust with your coworkers:
- Show common courtesy. Say hello, hold the elevator door, bring coffees now and then
- Be respectful in your communication, avoid over cc'ing unnecessarily in emails
- Avoid being a distraction, and respect the use of their time
- Respect their personal space and the line between work life and personal life
- Always ask if they have time before diving into a conversation
- Try to find the answer to your questions before running to ask a manager or co-worker
- Connect with them on LinkedIn but avoid more personal social media platforms
- Treat everyone the same, regardless of their job title
- Do not complain about your job to your coworkers
- Reach out to new employees and make them feel comfortable
- Own up to your mistakes and fix them
- Be timely with your followups and meet your deadlines"
Written by Rachelle Enns
9. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple tasks at hand?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"If, for example, I have more than one customer who needs me, I will page for assistance so that nobody is left waiting. It's essential to have team members that you can rely on to step in when you become too busy."
Written by Rachelle Enns
10. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but does assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for their position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but be sure to assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for their position.
For example: "Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
Written by Rachelle Enns
11. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with delays in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Setbacks happen for a reason, and they do not affect me emotionally in the least. I am a very pragmatic thinker and stay focused on my project despite the challenges that come my way. I am a creative thinker, so setbacks are often used as a new jumping off point to something even better."
Written by Rachelle Enns
12. Tell me about a time when communication became an issue when working on a team.
How to Answer
Give an example of a time you when you couldn't seem to explain what you needed from other team members or, talk about how one of your team members couldn't communicate effectively. Be sure to include what the overall outcome was of the situation, and what you did to repair the communication issue.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I worked on a team to solve a problem that could have potential effects on our ability to grow the business and reach our goals. Each person on the team was tasked with a different aspect, such as gathering data and analyzing it. We came together to discuss the results but couldn't seem to agree. We were struggling to listen to each person's opinion. I explained my observation, and I suggested we give each person a chance to talk through their findings and opinions, which helped us take a more collaborative approach."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My current company recently went through a merger which has caused a lack of communication between the team as thoughts of job security flood people. I suggested my department head that we have a team building event. Gathering everyone together to remind them that we are still a team was beneficial."
Written by Rachelle Enns
13. What work situations excite and motivate you?
How to Answer
It is essential, for your success, that the hiring manager knows how to keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am most motivated, on the job, when tasks are organized, and the vibe is positive. I value strong teamwork and good leadership."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am most motivated on the job when I feel like an active contributor and an important member of the team. When I feel listened to and valued, I am excited to do my best work."
Written by Rachelle Enns
14. Personality fit is important to us at SWISS. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
Personality and character are two very different things. The interviewer is looking for more information on your traits vs. your integrity. This example could include buzzwords such as extroverted, energetic, and confident.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I believe that, if asked, my colleagues and supervisor would say the same about me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am confident, friendly, and a go-getter. Are these personality traits that you are looking for in your next hire?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
15. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
How to Answer
A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. If you could do anything over, what would you do, and why?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to start over in a new direction completely I would likely pursue my Degree in Education and become a teacher. Both of my parents were teachers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy coaching and leading others so, any tasks in my current career that related to these skills, are very welcome."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would take the same direction! I love what I do, and wouldn't change a thing. This industry brings a lot of excitement and fulfillment to my life."
Written by Rachelle Enns
16. At SWISS, exceptional customer service is our priority. How will you ensure that our service standards are continually met?
How to Answer
Swiss International Airlines is branded as SWISS. If you are familiar with SWISS before your interview, you will likely know a little bit about their goals when it comes to customer service. SWISS was nominated for Europe's Leading Airline - Business Class, in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2018. They have also been nominated for First Class and Economy awards. Tie in your knowledge of the company with your service standard.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand through my research and exposure to your company that customers always come first. This service standard is one of the reasons why you have been nominated for so many awards such as Europe's Leading Airline, in multiple categories. I wholeheartedly agree that the customer must be taken care of, even beyond their expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I will ensure that your customer service standards are continually met by following your service protocols, exactly. I am always willing to lend a hand, and am a happy person, which creates a positive environment for customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns
17. When have you had to shift your priorities in response to sudden changes?
How to Answer
Have you been asked to change your priorities on a dime? How do you react to this kind of shift in priorities? Assure the interviewer that you can respond professionally when it comes to sudden changes.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, our schedule is changed on a regular basis and always at short notice. I have been able to adapt very well to these frequent, sudden changes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The airline industry is full of sudden changes, most frequently, when flight times are changed. This change affects everyone's schedule when it happens. I can roll with the punches and understand that I need to respond positively and swiftly when sudden changes are made."
Written by Rachelle Enns
18. The airline industry is full of unexpected scenarios. When have you faced an unexpected difficulty?
How to Answer
How you face unexpected difficulty can say a lot about your character. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have encountered an unexpected challenge. How did you handle the situation?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The biggest difficulty that I have faced was my unexpected lay off during the last recession. I had to adapt to a new economy and search deeply for other skills and opportunities. I was able to earn enough to avoid financial strain and am quite proud of my ability to be versatile when required."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I face unexpected difficulty frequently in my current position. The company is in financial strain, and some days we are not able to deliver the customer experience that we should. I overcome this by giving everything I have when it comes to service. I strive to leave a good impression."
Written by Rachelle Enns
19. What do you hope to gain most from your time with SWISS?
How to Answer
SWISS is well known for being an excellent employer. On their website, they say, 'We do a great deal to give our employees outstanding perspectives, and we value every personal contribution however small it may be.' The interviewer would like to see that you are wholeheartedly interested in working for SWISS. What are your hopes and expectations from your time with SWISS? Talk to the interviewer about the ways you feel you would benefit from this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"After reviewing the culture and mission of SWISS, I feel that I would be able to find a long-term fit here and that is most important to me. Your training programs are industry renowned and well respected which is also interesting to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"What I hope to gain most by working with SWISS is an unmatched level of training and expertise in the airline industry. Your company is well known for its second-to-none training."
Written by Rachelle Enns
20. List the top 3 skills that will make you an ideal team member at SWISS.
How to Answer
When you are asked to list your top skills, it's best to tie in your rock-star skills with the requests contained in the company's job description. Which skills do you possess that are the most helpful for this role with SWISS?
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I see that your job description requests candidate who is organized, honest, and driven by customer satisfaction. These skills are at the top of my list, but in addition to these, I am a proven leader and can work well under pressure."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Try to include a variety of words that the interviewer does not hear all the time. Be unique! Here are some ideas:
- Adaptable
- Considerate
- Diligent
- Intuitive
- Persistent
- Resourceful
- Sincere
- Witty"
Written by Rachelle Enns
21. As a Flight Attendant, you are responsible for ensuring that the safety of all passengers is a priority. What would you do if you felt there was a safety threat?
How to Answer
Airlines will always have strict safety protocols. Talk to the interviewer about how you would react in a situation where you felt safety was at risk.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My reaction to a safety threat would rely on my on-the-job training. I would want to make sure that I follow company protocol and safety regulations. I believe that if faced with a safety threat, I would do everything to ensure passengers remained calm."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am well trained on how to react in urgent, distressed, and mayday situations. In an emergency, my first course of action is to ensure the passengers are prepared."
Written by Rachelle Enns
22. All employees of SWISS are expected to wear a uniform to work. Are you comfortable with this policy?
How to Answer
Uniforms can be a controversial discussion in many organizations; however, in the airline industry uniform use is more common than not. Discuss with the interviewer your experience working in uniform and your willingness to abide by the dress code within SWISS.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am accustomed to wearing a uniform at work and am happy to abide by any dress code requirements to work with SWISS."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Uniforms are very important in this industry so, yes, I am comfortable with this policy. I would love to see the uniforms before I fully commit, of course."
Written by Rachelle Enns
23. Why are you the best choice for SWISS?
How to Answer
What makes you the best candidate for SWISS? Talk to the interviewer about what makes you a stand out candidate for this role. Be sure to discuss unique skills and characteristics that will make you a memorable candidate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I am the top candidate for SWISS because I already bring five years of industry experience. My customer service skills are unmatched, and I am fluent in 3 languages which allow me to communicate smoothly with a large range of customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see, I am invested in this interview process with SWISS and will bring this same level of dedication to you if hired. You won't be disappointed."
Written by Rachelle Enns
24. Employees of SWISS are expected to be reliable, on time, and accessible when on shift. Do you consider yourself to be a dedicated employee?
How to Answer
SWISS received a nomination for the World's Leading Cultural Airline in 2018. They are a great employer, and now you need to show them that you will help to uphold the culture they have so carefully crafted. Provide examples to the interviewer on times when you have shown dedication on the job. Assure the hiring manager that you possess the qualities and characteristics for which they are seeking.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position I was often recognized for being flexible with my availability. I believe in being 10 minutes early for work. I come with solid references who will be happy to speak to you about my reliability and dedication on the job."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am very dedicated, and would show my appreciation for the role by being a reliable team member of SWISS."
Written by Rachelle Enns
25. Aside from your experience working in the airline industry, do you have experience in other customer service based roles?
How to Answer
Discus with the interviewer your experience working in customer service based roles. Take them through your resume and highlight your customer service skills.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I started working at a young age in a restaurant as a server. From there, I moved into a restaurant management role and also attended post-secondary education with a focus on Restaurant and Hotel management. Most of what I've done has been customer service focused."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career, so this will be my first customer service based role. I do have volunteer experience with the local Food Bank which gave me valuable exposure to working with the public, and collaborating with a team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
26. To work for SWISS, you are required to pass a criminal record check. Are you comfortable accommodating this?
How to Answer
A clean criminal record is a must for all airline related roles. You must be able to pass the criminal background check and may even be asked to present one in your interview. Your answer can be short and to the point.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"You will find that I have a clean criminal background. I'm willing to participate in any background check that you require."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I can complete a full criminal background check as well as any drug testing, or other background checks that you require."
Written by Rachelle Enns
27. As a Flight Attendant you will be asked to work a wide range of hours and a lot of overtime. Are you able to accommodate the unpredictable schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are aware of the inconsistent schedule associated with being a Flight Attendant. Use examples if you have some experiences to draw on.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position with Airline XYZ, I had an inconsistent schedule that required me to often be on call. I worked many weekends and holidays. This schedule is part of the lifestyle of a Flight Attendant, I completely understand. I'm happy to work any hours offered to me."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am available for a wide range of hours and overtime. I prefer to be made aware of my schedule ahead of time so that I can make appropriate childcare arrangements."
Written by Rachelle Enns
28. Have you received training on how to handle an in-flight emergency?
How to Answer
If an in-flight emergency occurred, would you know what to do? Assure the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to handle an emergency situation in a professional manner. If you are new to the industry and do not have the related training, be honest about that and comment on any other training you've completed, that may be relevant or helpful.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my role with Company ABC, I received over 100 hours of in-flight situational training. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"As I am new to a career in the airline industry, I have not received in-flight emergency training; however, I have taken emergency response training in my current position at the hospital. I am confident in my ability to react professionally and appropriately in an emergency situation, and I look forward to taking the in-flight training with SWISS."
Written by Rachelle Enns
29. Do you have any formal training in First Aid or CPR?
How to Answer
First Aid and CPR training is a requirement for many roles in the airline industry. Assure the interviewer that you have current and valid certification in CPR and First Aid. If you do not, be sure to express your willingness to do so.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I do not currently hold a valid CPR and First Aid certification; however, I am happy to complete this requirement right away."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have formal training in First Aid and CPR. I have brought my certifications here for you to see."
Written by Rachelle Enns
30. Tell me about any airline related training that you have been through.
How to Answer
Regardless of any industry related training that you have been through, you will need to complete training specific to SWISS.
If you do not have any industry-specific training, perhaps you have training that would be transferable to this role (IE: Sales, Safety, Customer Service, Technical, etc.). Walk the interviewer through any on-the-job training you feel would be helpful.
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have taken industry-related safety and customer service training with company ABC. In addition to this training, I have four years of industry experience."
Written by Rachelle Enns on July 20th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have not taken specific airline related training, I do have some current certifications that I believe will be helpful. These include CPR, First Aid, and WHMIS training."
Written by Rachelle Enns