30 Viking River Cruises Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Viking River Cruises 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 do you interpret the term "ship life", and what do you expect from our workplace culture?
How to Answer
'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 Viking River Cruises 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.
1st Answer Example
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"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?"
2. How do you handle yourself in large crowds of people?
How to Answer
Cruise ships can hold thousands of passengers, with the worlds' largest holding over 6,000 people at a time. With that many people under one roof, the interviewer needs to know that you can handle the capacity of people without becoming overwhelmed or moody. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have been exposed to large crowds. Assure the interviewer that you can handle the pressure and challenges that come along with this workplace environment.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked many Black Friday retail rushes and popular concerts to know that I am okay in a large crowd of people. Although I do appreciate my personal space and alone time now and then, I do find it energizing to be around large amounts of people."
2nd Answer Example
"Large crowds of people are no problem for me. I have worked on cruise ships with capacity from 3,000-5,000 people with no issues. I am a true extrovert, so I do find it energizing to be around many people at one time."
3. In this role, you will be traveling for three months on, and two weeks off. How will you manage this with your personal life?
How to Answer
As a cruise ship member, your schedule could be a few weeks at sea, up to a few months at a time. Before Viking River Cruises hires you, they need to be sure that you can handle the schedule without it affecting your personal or family life. Briefly touch on the ways that you have prepared your family and friends for the potential change. Let the interviewer know that you are ready to set sail!
1st Answer Example
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"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."
4. Have you ever been on a cruise? What was your experience?
How to Answer
Before you can fully understand what life is like working on a cruise, you should take one! The cruise experience is a vacation in a league all its own. Never-ending entertainment, delicious dining, and unique shopping. A cruise ship can indeed have it all. Share with the interviewer your experience on a cruise. What stood out to you the most? What memory do you always return to when you think about that trip? If you have never taken a cruise, be sure to do some research by reading travel blogs.
1st Answer Example
"I was on a Christmas family cruise a couple of years ago with Viking River Cruises. My experience was so wonderful, that is when I vowed to come back as an employee one day. I loved the variety and that I could spend nearly every day in a new city or country, exploring the culture and trying new things. I am excited to help give this opportunity to the guests of Viking River Cruises."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I have never been on a cruise vacation, I have read about them on a variety of travel blogs and performed a great amount of research before coming here today. I look forward to learning more about the ways that Viking River Cruises creates unforgettable experiences for their guests."
5. If you could set sail to any place in the world, where would you go, and why?
How to Answer
This question is one of interest, but also may be one to test your geographical knowledge. The last thing you want to reply with a city and country that do not exist, for instance! Other than that, there indeed is no right or wrong answer to this question. Choose a unique destination that will make you a stand-out candidate. If you choose Paris, for the Eiffel Tower, you may not be memorable.
1st Answer Example
"I love to travel and have had many great opportunities in the past few years. If I could choose any destination for my next, I would pick to stay at the Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden. It's so interesting to me that I could stay in a hotel carved entirely out of ice. Also, the town has historic buildings to explore, such as an old church dating back to approximately 1607."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a bucket list, actually, and would love to tell you about it! A couple of years ago I made a list of the most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites and decided that I would choose one from North America, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. So far, I have visited Leon Cathedral in Nicaragua, and Ephesus in Turkey. Next, I am planning for the Paleolithic Caves in Spain. It's important to me that I am well traveled and exposed to what our beautiful world has to offer."
6. Why do you want to work for Viking River Cruises over other cruise lines?
How to Answer
It's essential that you can articulate why this role with Viking River Cruises is superior to similar positions with their competitors. Perhaps you connect with the company mission and values, maybe they offer employee perks beyond what their competitors advertise, or they have a much better industry reputation. Whatever your reasoning may be, assure the interviewer that you bring dedication to working for Viking River Cruises and that you are excited to be their newest representative.
1st Answer Example
"My interest in working for Viking River Cruises comes from the fact that I had an incredible family vacation on your cruise line a few years ago. My experience was unforgettable, and I am excited to have the opportunity to share that with other people who trust Viking River Cruises for their special holidays. I appreciate all of the amenities that you offer and that your customer service goes far beyond the minimal expectations."
2nd Answer Example
"When I was researching cruise line jobs, the job postings from Viking River Cruises stood above the rest. They are upbeat and welcoming, just like the experience that you offer those who vacation with you. Your workplace culture, branding, and overall vibe speak the loudest to me, over any of your competitors. I would be a proud representative of Viking River Cruises."
7. To work with Viking River Cruises you will need to complete a full background check, along with a medical examination. Are you okay with this?
How to Answer
Complete background checks are a must for any cruise ship related position. The only correct answer to this question is a 'yes.' If you do have a mark on your record, or any reason why there could be a hiccup in your onboarding, now is the time to mention it.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background and medical checks required to work for Viking River Cruises. I appreciate that you are very careful who you employ, as I realized that your staff is privy to sensitive information and situations."
2nd Answer Example
"I will agree to any background checks that you require. I should disclose to you that I had knee surgery three years ago; however, I have the all-clear from my doctor to perform work functions as per normal. I can walk and stand for long periods of time, and can lift 75 pounds, repeatedly."
8. Working on a cruise line means long hours and trying guests. How do you handle extended periods of stress?
How to Answer
Working on a cruise ship is not all fun and games, and the interviewer would like to know that you are aware of potential stressors on the job. Just like in any customer service role, you will be under times of stress with grouchy guests, and straining physical activity. Assure the interviewer that you can handle these times with professionalism and poise. If possible, give examples of a time when you have been under pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I have been under extended periods of stress before, from my time in University and earning a double degree, to working in the service industry in busy and high-pressure environments. When I am feeling extra stressors, I will take a minute to collect myself with a few deep breaths, and remind myself of the positive things I experienced that day. Taking myself back into a mentality of gratitude always helps."
2nd Answer Example
"I am no stranger to extended periods of stress. I have worked internationally in the past, away from all family and friends. I have also worked in high-pressure retail sales environments. When I feel added pressure, I will ask to take a quick breather if possible. Most of the time, removing myself from the situation for just a couple of minutes will help. If that is not possible, I will run through a list in my head of all the good things that happened that day. I find that when I stop dwelling on the stressors, and more on the positives, things turn around for me."
9. Tell me about your experience working around children.
How to Answer
Many cruise lines offer a family-friendly environment, with kids clubs. These clubs often offer activities and care from babies all the way to teenagers. Entertainment and care could include large playrooms, special kid-friendly menus, crafts, water parks, and other programs. The interviewer needs to know that you would be comfortable working around children of all ages. Talk about your experience working with kids, including the ages you have worked with and the types of activities that you have led. If you do not have experience working around children, that is okay. Discuss that you are a kid at heart and are confident that you can make any day fun, and safe, for kids of all ages!
1st Answer Example
"I have worked as a babysitter since I was 12 years old. I have been a volunteer for Girl Guides a few years running as well. I have worked with kids in outdoor adventure programs, water programs, and also activities such as crafts and cooking. Most of the kids I have worked with are ages 4-9; although, I believe that I can make any day fun for all ages!"
2nd Answer Example
"I have not had direct work experience with children; however, I am the oldest of four siblings, and did a lot of free babysitting for my parents growing up! I am a kid at heart and enjoy making kids laugh. I can assure you that I would work very hard to make the kids club experience at Viking River Cruises a safe and memorable one."
10. Which area of our ship do you have the most interest in working?
How to Answer
When applying to a cruise line, you will have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing a department or area of interest. Opportunities may be available in:
- Guest services
- Food & Beverage
- Gift Shop
- Casino
- Cruise programs
- Human resources
- Jewelry
- Medical
- Engine
- Music
- Salon
- Surveillance and security
There are hundreds of opportunities available. Be ready to highlight for the interviewer the areas which you are most interested.
1st Answer Example
"I have a solid background in food and beverage, with many years of bartending as well as upscale dining service. I could fit well with any position in the F&B department."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a background in security and surveillance. When I saw that you have an opening for a Surveillance Operator, I knew I had to apply. I have formal STCW training (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and am passionate for the hospitality industry."
11. Have you ever planned an international vacation?
How to Answer
Since you are applying to work for a travel-based company, you should be ready to highlight any experience you have planning vacations for yourself. Discuss where you have traveled, and be sure to mention the best of your experience. If you have planned a cruise vacation before, give some details on your trip, how you designed it, and what you loved about it.
1st Answer Example
"I have planned two international vacations before. One was a cruise for myself and my parents, with Viking River Cruises actually. I used a travel agent to ensure that all of the details were perfect. We had an excellent time exploring the ship, the port towns and took in a few excursions. The other vacation I planned, I booked online by myself. It was a simpler resort vacation in Costa Rica."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not been lucky enough to do any international travel. I have planned a 12-week US-wide road-trip in the past, right after I graduated from university. One of the reasons why I am so excited to work for Viking River Cruises is for the international travel opportunities. I realize that I will not be vacationing per se; however, to even be able to see these places all over the world briefly, is enough for me."
12. Are you CPR and First Aid certified?
How to Answer
Keep your response brief as this is a very straightforward question. If you are CPR and First Aid certified, be sure to bring proof of your certification with you to the interview. If your certificates are expiring soon, let the interviewer know that you have plans to renew them. If you are not certified, it's best that you offer to become certified, at your own expense, before their desired hire date. Being proactive like that will say a lot about your work ethic.
1st Answer Example
"I am not currently CPR or First Aid certified; however, I have researched options close to me and have found a couple of courses that begin next week. I am eager to work for Viking River Cruises and will do what it takes to be a viable candidate."
2nd Answer Example
"I have valid CPR and First Aid certifications which I have brought with me today. Would you like to take a copy for my candidate file?"
13. How would you go above and beyond to make a guests' vacation their best trip ever?
How to Answer
It is crucial that you answer this customer service based question with enthusiasm and clarity. Try to dig deeper than the usual 'service with a smile' response. Give specific examples on how you would make a guest of Viking River Cruises feel like they just took the vacation of their dreams.
1st Answer Example
"I know how I would like to be treated on my 'home away from home' and would start by remembering guests names, and their preferences. I would greet them with a smile every time, and ask them about their day. Asking how I can better serve them is also a great way to ensure that they are receiving more than expected during their cruise vacation."
2nd Answer Example
"Customer service is one of my key strengths. I will commit to delivering the best service ever, ensuring a memorable trip, by providing more than just their basic needs. Asking a guest how their excursion was, helping them with a difficult gift shop jewelry purchase, or even memorizing the names of their children, are all excellent ways to go above and beyond. I look forward to attending the superior customer service training from Viking River Cruises as well."
14. How do you feel about living in shared accommodation while working on our ship?
How to Answer
Employees who work on cruise ships share very tight crew assigned living quarters. Think of your college dorm room, perhaps smaller, but on the water. These little bunks will include a couple of single beds, a desk or table, and a small bathroom for the most part. The interviewer would like to know that you can handle this type of living situation, with total strangers, for weeks at a time. Be honest in your response, and, if you have had exposure to a similar living arrangement, you can certainly bring this up.
1st Answer Example
"Cabin crew living arrangements sound a great deal like the arrangements I had in university! I have talked to a couple of people who have worked on cruise ships before, and they all say that it's tough for the first couple of weeks, but then you get used to it. I know that depending on the level I am on, it could be loud from the engine hum or the water. I trust that Viking River Cruises knows how to best pair employees when it comes to roommate situations."
2nd Answer Example
"I have had roommates in the past, but perhaps not in such proximity. So long as we remain respectful of each others' space, I see no problem living cozy for a few weeks. I will think of it as the tiny house trend!"
15. The crew of Viking River Cruises greatly range in background, ethnicity, and culture. Tell me about your exposure to diversity.
How to Answer
On most cruise lines, you can see dozens, if not hundreds, of backgrounds and ethnicities represented. Cruise lines are well known for their vast diversity when it comes to hiring. Nearly any culture you can think of will be represented on the ship. Assure the interviewer that you embrace diversity and are driven to include those, no matter how different they are from you.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that the crew at Viking River Cruises will represent nearly any culture I could imagine. I genuinely enjoy getting to know those who are different from me and learning from them. My time in university, I was exposed to people of all different beliefs and lifestyles. I have also traveled around the world, giving me valuable exposure to a variety of cultures and experiences."
2nd Answer Example
"One of the reasons why I am so interested in working for Viking River Cruises is the fact that you do embrace diversity so much. I want to know people different from me and expand my knowledge far beyond my own backyard. I look forward to meeting your diverse crew!"
16. How do you feel about the Viking River Cruises dress code and code of conduct?
How to Answer
Cruise lines have dress codes for safety, customer service, and professional reasons. When there are thousands of people vacationing on a ship, the crew need to be easy to locate, should a guest need anything. Before you reply to this question, you should have a firm idea of what the dress code looks like, and the expectations that will be placed on you when it comes to the code of conduct. If you are unsure, it is best to ask upfront for a copy of the dress code, and code of conduct. Of course, Viking River Cruises will do their best to place only realistic and healthy expectations on you.
1st Answer Example
"I have looked through your employee code of conduct and have seen your dress code online. I am happy to comply with both and find them very reasonable. Will I be provided with a uniform, or do I need to purchase them through your organization?"
2nd Answer Example
"I am sure that the code of conduct and employee dress code are very reasonable. Do you have a copy of each that I could review?"
17. Tell me about your training in customer service, hospitality, or another related field.
How to Answer
Working on a cruise line means that you will be serving others, at all times of the day. A cruise ship job does not stop at 5 PM, and you may be required to deliver 'service with a smile' at all hours of the day. The interviewer would like assurance that you have training in the world of hospitality and customer service. Discuss any on-the-job training you have received or any coursework you have committed to, related to customer service.
1st Answer Example
"I have spent the past eight years in a hospitality environment, first with boutique hotels, and then in resort hotels. My customer service training has included topics such as balancing professionalism with personality, effective communication, and dispute resolution."
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to my career but have taken a course in dispute resolution and strategic problem solving while attending university. My new business administration degree also offers a great deal of knowledge when it comes to savvy decision making and clear communication. I am confident in the knowledge that I possess and look forward to furthering my training with Viking River Cruises."
18. What type of promotion, or long-term opportunities, would you be looking for from Viking River Cruises?
How to Answer
It takes Viking River Cruises a long time to properly train each of their employees which is why it's important to them that they hire for as long-term as possible. Many people experience long-term, enjoyable careers in the cruise industry. Take a look at the types of roles that you could earn your way into, and express any interest that you may have in these future opportunities.
1st Answer Example
"I am interested in earning my way into a Cruise Assistant Director role over time. I know that it will take years of dedication and training, but I am passionate for career growth in the cruise industry and am willing to do what it takes. I read that you have an opening which requires more HR and personnel training than I currently have. Do you recommend a specific training path?"
2nd Answer Example
"Looking through the Viking River Cruises website I see that you have a lot of opportunity for leadership growth which includes multiple management and director type of roles. I have a keen interest in the Director of Hospitality position you currently have posted. I know it would take some time for me to work my way into a role such as that; however, I am willing to do what it takes to get there. I am in this job search to find a long-term opportunity."
19. Do you have any talents or unique hobbies we should know about?
How to Answer
This question is similar to the 'tell me something I wouldn't know from reading your resume' question. When cruise lines look to hire, they love to entertain candidates with a lot of potential in multiple areas. For instance, perhaps you are excellent with bartending, and you can assist on the entertainment side of the ship. Discuss any talents or hobbies that you may have. You can give a more relaxed response to this question.
1st Answer Example
"I grew up playing basketball and was the captain of my college basketball team. I learned a lot about leadership, healthy competition, and being a team player. I am open to trying new things and, should you need someone to help with the sports and activities side of your program, I could be an excellent resource."
2nd Answer Example
"I have many hidden talents! I love to act, sing, and dance. If you think I could incorporate that into a bartending act, we could be onto something! Seriously though, I am interested in a multitude of topics and am happy to fill in where needed."
20. Do you think that you can sustain the cruise ship lifestyle for the long term?
How to Answer
The cruise ship lifestyle is a challenging one, and not everyone can sustain its demands for the long term. What characteristics do you have that would help you to endure the hardships (along with the fun!) for the long run? Discuss how you will manage this lifestyle for months, if not years, to come.
1st Answer Example
"I do believe that I can sustain this lifestyle for the long term. I am an extrovert who loves gaining new experiences. I do not need a lot of downtime to recharge, and am known for my high levels of energy. With the correct training, I believe I can succeed in this role with Viking River Cruises for the long term."
2nd Answer Example
"I have put a lot of research into the cruise ship lifestyle before submitting my application. I believe that the speed here would suit me since I am highly energetic and like to be kept busy. I view this position with Viking River Cruises as a lifestyle based role, and a long-term opportunity."
21. Name the top 3 qualities you would look for when hiring cruise line staff.
How to Answer
If you look through a variety of job postings from Viking River Cruises you will see there are common characteristics they seek when hiring new employees.
These characteristics include:
- Pride in your customer service
- Positive personality
- Willingness to adapt
- Regard for safety
- Respectful and trustworthy
Show the interviewer that you are aware of what it takes to be a successful employee at Viking River Cruises. If you were in charge, who would you hire and why?
1st Answer Example
"If I were hiring cruise line staff, I would look for people who could adapt to changing situations, who were quick problem solvers, and who carried a positive attitude everywhere you go. I believe that I fit the bill in all three of these areas. My references could vouch for this as well."
2nd Answer Example
"Hiring cruise line staff is likely a difficult task since you want to find people who excel in customer service, who can handle the unique lifestyle and at the same time, stay as long-term as possible. I imagine the industry attracts more transient individuals that you would prefer. If I were hiring, I would look for someone dedicated to the hospitality industry, has a genuine interest in travel, and who wanted to work in a close-knit team environment. I would be sure to check references as well."
22. Describe the typical Viking River Cruises customer, and the type of vacation they are seeking.
How to Answer
According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the typical cruise vacationer is:
- 93% Caucasian
- 46 years or older
- 65%+ have post-secondary education
- 80%+ are married
- 58% work full-time
- 90K+ household income
Show the interviewer that you have done your research on the typical customer that Viking River Cruises may attract.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that the majority of your customers are upper-level income earners, mostly married, ages 45 and over. I have also read that many of your customers come back for a cruise every three years which is an excellent rate considering the planning and cost associated with such elaborate vacations. I would say that your average customer is seeking a blend of adventure and luxury. Is this correct?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have been on a couple of cruises through Viking River Cruises and found that your cruises are very family oriented. My research tells me that your customers are seeking a vacation out of the ordinary, where they can leave their cares at home. Is this accurate to say?"
23. Do you like being around people?
How to Answer
Working on a cruise line means working around people day in, and day out for the course of your shift. This schedule could mean months without going a day by yourself. Assure the interviewer that you can handle such a social based role. Share the types of people or situations that you enjoy. It's essential to maintain a positive angle when addressing this question.
1st Answer Example
"I would consider myself an extrovert, and I do love working closely with a team and my customers. I enjoy a wide range of personalities. The more I can interact with people in a day, the better. I like to be in the middle of the action!"
2nd Answer Example
"I am a people person, as I would hope are most people seeking a career on a cruise ship. I enjoy having a great conversation with someone and getting to know them. The art of conversation is how I build wonderful rapport levels with my clients and co-workers alike."
24. How would you handle a rude customer?
How to Answer
When you work on a cruise ship, everything you do is customer service based. You will often come across rude individuals, which is inevitable, in the customer service game, unfortunately. The interviewer wants to know that you can handle such a situation with professionalism. Give an example of a time that you had to deal with a challenging customer situation. Be sure to include the positive outcome.
Some ways that you can efficiently handle a rude customer:
- Remain kind, polite, and pleasant
- Actively listen to their grievances
- Apologize for the situation
- Maintain a neutral tone of voice
- Avoid taking anything they say, personally
1st Answer Example
"When I was working as a bartender, I handled many rude customers who were also intoxicated, which always adds a challenging twist! I made sure to let anything rude they said to slide off my back like it was nothing. I just kept smiling, and doing my job! I still handle rude customers this way. Smile, and move on, disallowing any hurt feelings."
2nd Answer Example
"I have thick skin when it comes to customers. This resilience to rude allows me to remain calm kind, and polite while they unload their feelings. Also, it's amazing what a warm smile will solve when a customer is rude to your face. Try it - it's nearly impossible to be mean to someone who is smiling at you!"
25. How would you deal in an emergency situation, while at sea?
How to Answer
Safety and emergency response will be an integral component of your training, should you be hired by Viking River Cruises.
If you have received training in cruise line emergencies, discuss this training with the interviewer.
If you are new to the cruise line industry, express how you would instinctually deal in an emergency. Also, let the interviewer know that you look forward to receiving proper training.
1st Answer Example
"I have been training in emergency response and would follow these steps. First, remaining calm, I would help guide our guests to the muster station. Next, I would suit up the guests with lifejackets, starting with the children and their parents. I would then carefully follow the steps given to me by the captain, depending on the nature of the emergency."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that ships have special emergency procedures that all cabin and crew are trained on before setting sail. It's important to remain calm and in control during these situations, to avoid any panic and unnecessary chaos. Although I have no training on cruise ship emergency management, I do believe that the first step would be to guide everyone to the muster point and start suiting the most vulnerable guests with lifejackets first."
26. How much do you think this job should pay?
How to Answer
This question is merely another way for the interviewer to ask about your desired pay for this role. Be honest about what you are hoping to make, but you should also avoid asking for too little, or for too much. Using an online salary calculating tool, like the ones from Glassdoor or Indeed, will help you to determine the average ask for your position. You can also use your current salary as part of the basis for your ask.
1st Answer Example
"I am currently earning $15/hour plus travel benefits and a robust health care plan. I am up for a raise to $17/hour in the next couple of months. My ideal salary is $17-19/hour plus health and travel benefits, which I believe is a fair ask for this role."
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to my career, so I performed some research on the topic, hoping to gain an understanding of the average pay for service staff on a cruise line. The ranges I saw were $14-18/hour depending on experience. Is this in line with what Viking River Cruises offers for this role?"
27. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem solving, decisions are not always readily reached. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results. Walk the interviewer through your process when it comes to making quick decisions. Do you rely on past experiences? Perhaps you go with a gut feeling. Maybe you have read case studies that you lean on in these instances.
Cruise ship problems that require you to act quickly can be emergencies such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a grease fire in the kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and are only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on. Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
1st Answer Example
"I thrive under pressure and always have, so when I'm given a time-sensitive situation to address, I light up and get down to business. I am more impactful and even more creative when I have little time to do much besides jump in and take charge. This ability to make fast decisions is especially helpful in the cruise industry when there is a customer service issue or an emergency."
2nd Answer Example
"As a customer service agent in the cruise line industry, I need to make a multitude of decisions, on the fly, for a variety of guests at a time. I rely partially on the instinct that I have built as an expert in the service industry and part in past travel experiences that may be similar. I am sure always to exude an air of control and confidence when making decisions."
28. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
How to Answer
Cruise ships are heavily cross-functional since all departments and personnel work closely together to create a pleasant and cohesive guest experience. If you have worked for a cruise line in the past, you may have been asked to collaborate between the kitchen and the child care facility. Maybe you have floated service between the pool and the casino. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to Viking River Cruises.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in many cross-functional environments. Currently, I lead the dining service team and collaborate with the kitchen management and bartending staff very regularly. We all work well together to ensure an amazing dining experience for our guests."
2nd Answer Example
"The cruise line which I currently work for is highly collaborative. We are a 'complete guest experience' organization, so we have meetings together with our casino, watersports, entertainment and excursions, dining staff, and also our cabin crew on a daily basis. Goals are clear, and we all understand how each department works to complement the other."
29. Describe your working relationship with your previous or current colleagues.
How to Answer
In a cruise ship environment, you are working very closely with your co-workers, day in and day out. The interviewer would like to know more about your ability to have a harmonious relationship with your colleagues. Avoid talking about any previous workplace drama and do not speak poorly of your colleagues, past or present. Keep your reply positive and upbeat.
1st Answer Example
"All of the colleagues I have worked with have shared a very respectful relationship. We have similar goals and challenges, and we exchange knowledge to accomplish those things to the best we can. Each of us has a part in the company's success, and we utilize communication to make it happen."
2nd Answer Example
"Our team is amazing! We support each other when customers are a bit cranky, we help each other reach the ships' sales targets and goals, and we help to cover when someone needs a few hours off. I understand that Viking River Cruises offers a collaborative workplace culture similar to this, which is why I was motivated to apply here."
30. Are you bilingual?
How to Answer
Many cruise lines will give preference to candidates who are multi-lingual. Because the guests of Viking River Cruises will collectively speak a multitude of languages, they seek to hire a diverse crew who will be able to accommodate that diversity. Discuss any languages that you speak, ranking yourself as beginner, conversational, or fluent, to give the interviewer a firm idea of what to expect from you. If you are willing to learn an additional language, this is an excellent opportunity to show you are eager to succeed.
1st Answer Example
"I come from an English and Spanish speaking home, so am fluent in both languages. Because I speak Spanish, I also pick up on similar languages such as French, quite quickly. If there are other languages you would like me to study; I am happy to learn."
2nd Answer Example
"I speak primarily English, although I am a beginner in Mandarin and German. I took both languages in high school for a few years, allowing me to understand basic phrases. If you think it would be helpful, I can commit to learning these languages on a deeper level."