Many people consider preparing for an interview, either a nerve-racking task or a trivial task. The latter may believe they only need to show up and wing it. However, preparing for an interview should not be underestimated. You may have a great personality, but in most cases, that’s not enough to get the job. An interview is all about communicating who you are and what you can bring to the existing team in the best way possible. If you can’t do this effectively, it is unlikely that you will get the job.

Generally speaking, interviews are not complicated….. if you’re well prepared and confident.

How to prepare for a Superyacht interview

1.    Analyse the job

Prepping for an interview requires you to analyze the job description. Look through what the yacht is looking for in a crewmember. As you review the job description, please make a list of the skills, knowledge, professional and personal qualities they are looking for.

2.    Make a match

Now that you have a list of the required skill and qualities list down your assets that match those requirements. Include your top 10 skills, qualities, certifications, experiences, professional capabilities and knowledge. These will help you explain to the employer why you are the perfect fit for the job.

It would be best if you also prepared some examples of past work experiences where you had to utilize these skills. As a result, you will be ready with answers to any questions from the interviewer regarding times you demonstrated these skills.

3.    Do your research

It is essential that you do your research beforehand not only about the job but also the captain, the yacht, and if possible, the yacht owner. It is a critical step in the interview preparation process. It will make it easier for you to answer interview questions regarding the yacht or role-related matters.

4.    Practice interviewing

Make time to practice your answers to expected questions.  This not only helps your nerves but also allows you to validate your answers.

Some of the questions to expect are:

• Give an overview of who you are?
• Your strengths and weaknesses?
• Your greatest achievements?
• Your ideal job?
• Why do you think this position is for you?
• What can you contribute to our team? Or why should we hire you?
• If I reach out to your references, what would your last Captain say is the area in which you most need improvement?

It would help if you also prepared questions for your interviewer regarding the crew, owners, itinerary, your duties/responsibilities and any other relevant subjects. You’re demonstrating professionalism and enthusiasm for the job.

Employers are not just looking for qualifications. They are looking for a likeable person who will fit well on board. Practice helps to bring out your personality efficiently and effectively.

5.    Personal grooming

People often wait last minute to prepare their clothes for the interview or to get their hair done. Unfortunately, last-minute preparations never bring out the best version of you. You have a higher chance of success if you can make an excellent first impression. Wear something comfortable yet professional.

Remember your appearance is the first thing an interviewer sees before the interview even begins. Scientists and psychologists have performed extensive tests, and it’s commonly accepted that peoples first impression can be made within 1/10 of a second. First impressions count, so make a little effort.

6.    Prepare your documents

You should take a two-step approach to keep and archiving your essential documents. Firstly, Obtain a good quality physical smart folder for all your certification, references and documentation.

Secondly, open a cloud-based storage account with the likes of DropBox or GoogleDrive to store digital copies of your hard copies. You will not only safeguard yourself in the case of loss or damage but will act as an easy and direct means to your documentation for Yachts and management.

7.    Practice interview etiquette

It’s essential to have the right interview etiquette. If you have the interview on board the yacht, greet everyone you meet and be polite. In the interview, be mindful of your body language. You will gain rapport if you maintain good eye contact and clearly articulate your points. Be attentive and look interested. Don’t forget to smile 🙂

So now that you have prepared for the interview, you have a better chance of acing the process. When the interview day comes:

• Be confident. Let your demeanor be that of a confident person
• Stay positive and don’t make a mistake of complaining about former employers or colleagues. Yachting isn’t a big industry; the person you are criticizing may be the best friend of your interviewer! Very unfortunate for you!.
• Be punctual.
• Turn off your phone during the interview.

It’s often quoted that failing to prepare is preparing to fail. This statement is quite true. If you want to have a good experience during your interview and eventually get the job, use these tips to prepare. Success happens where preparation meets opportunity.