Are you comfortable working a wide range of shifts and overtime?
Your interviewer is curious about how well-versed you are in what it takes to succeed with their company. They have a fair understanding of why many of the candidates in their "talent community" would pursue a position with them, but they need assurances that you are up to handling the more stressful aspects of the job. So, when performing your research, go beyond the job description and comb through every page of their website. You'll find a lot of information there and elsewhere online on what to expect. Consider sharing some relatable examples of your on-the-job experiences to emphasize you have prior experience in this regard and are up to the job ahead.
"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. I completely understand that this schedule is part of the lifestyle of a flight attendant. I'm happy to work any hours offered to me."
"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."
United boldly advertises they have "the most comprehensive route network in the world." They also emphasize that dependability and timeliness are critical to operating their schedule and meeting customer expectations. Therefore, whether you are pursuing a role as a flight attendant, a ramp agent, or a position in operations, the hours you work may vary. Whether as a result of weather-related flight interruptions or other uncontrollable circumstances, they need all their employees to be ready to go the extra mile in helping them "provide a safe work environment for all of us, and a safe, reliable and strong business operation for our customers." They also advertise that United's flight attendants need to be "available for global assignments 24/7, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours." They are expected to "fulfill reserve assignments on short notice and be away from your base for days at a time."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I can easily accommodate any schedule or changes that come with a flight attendant position. For the majority of my career, while working in a hospital setting, I had to be on call 15 days out of the month. Also, our schedule was adjusted daily and on short notice.
Rachelle's Feedback
Same suggestion as the similar question above. Try to frame the "had to" in a more positive light.
"I can easily accommodate any schedule or changes that come with this flight attendant position. For the majority of my career, I was on call for 15 days per month, with a schedule that often changed on short notice."
Anonymous Answer
As a former flight attendant and CSA, I am very familiar with the unpredictable work schedules, and l am prepared and ready to accept and work that kind of schedule. You will find, my former superiors were pleased with my flexibility and willingness to work unscheduled shifts and overtime.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a nice, responsive answer with a lot of helpful detail"”good work, showing the interviewer that you have a history of being reliable and flexible.
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