How do you interpret the term "ship life", and what do you expect from our workplace culture?
'Ship life' is the term used by workers on cruise ships, referring to the unique workplace culture and lifestyle they lead, by working for weeks or even months at a time, on board a cruise ship. The interviewer would like to know that you have a reasonable understanding of what ship life will bring you, the good and the bad. It's vital to V.Ships Leisure that you join their organization with realistic expectations, and not thinking that the job is all fun and games because you will be traveling around the world. Discuss what you understand to be the workplace culture aboard a cruise ship.
"I believe the term 'ship life' is referring to the unique position crew members are in, working on a ship for long periods of time. I understand that working on a cruise ship is not all fun and games like in movies, for instance. What I expect from your workplace culture is a sense of community but also some growing pains as you get accustomed to working on a ship with potentially hundreds of nationalities and differences. I am eager for the excellent training and new experiences; however, I know that some days will be more emotionally challenging than others."
"From my understanding, 'ship life' is the way of life onboard a ship, where you work, eat, sleep, and play day in and day out. Working on a cruise ship is a unique experience, and I do know, not always fun and easy. I am prepared to put in the hard work in exchange for life-changing experiences and opportunities. I expect that your staff is well-trained, embracing of diversity, and inclusive by nature. Is this accurate to say?"
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Anonymous Answer
I believe ship life refers to the ups and downs you may feel whilst living, working, and socializing on a cruise ship. For example, you have this amazing opportunity to travel the world, earn and save money and meet people from all over the world. But at the same time, you could feel overwhelmed, tired, and homesick. This process goes up and down and no 2 days are the same, however, pushing through it you do come to terms with the lifestyle change and adjust to “ship life”.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome! This is an amazing description of 'ship life.' To strengthen your answer, end it by assuring the interviewer that you're cut out for this type of life and confident that you'll adjust to it without any issues. Also, don't forget to address the second part of the question about your expectations of the company's workplace culture. Good job!
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