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Getting ready for a superyacht interview can be nerve-wracking, whether you’re a green crew member or an experienced Captain. Asking the right questions can make you stand out from the crowd, while the wrong ones can undo all your hard work. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the tricky waters of superyacht interviews.
Questions You Should Steer Clear Of
First and foremost, avoid questions about salary and time off during the initial interview. Questions about money and leave can leave a bad impression. Ideally, your interviewer will provide this information without you needing to ask. If they don’t, consult your crew agent. If you’re not working with an agent, save these questions for a follow-up interview.
Here are some tips:
- Before asking about tips, flight allowances, or course payments, keep in mind that these details are usually better left for later discussions or brought up naturally during the interview.
- Asking whether your partner can also get a job on board may seem premature, so save it for a more appropriate moment in the conversation.
- Clarifying how busy a charter yacht is can be important, but first, make sure you’re speaking about an actual charter yacht to avoid looking uninformed.
- Questions about time off for personal events or how much holiday you’ll get could raise concerns about your availability, especially during peak seasons when crew reliability is crucial.
- And finally, inquiring about a higher salary when the role is already well-compensated could make you come across as overly focused on money, which might not sit well with potential employers.
The Right Attitude
Captains and heads of departments (HODs) are looking for crew members who are ready to contribute positively. The attitude of “what can this boat do for me?” should be replaced with “this is what I can do for you.” Demonstrating this mindset will set you apart as a dedicated and enthusiastic candidate.
It’s wise to have at least five questions ready, though ten is even better.
Questions That Impress
Asking insightful questions can demonstrate your commitment and eagerness to contribute. Here are some that will make you stand out. If you’re a senior crew member, aim for more in-depth questions tailored for higher positions.
- What qualities are you looking for in a junior crew member?
- Could you clarify if there’s anything in my application or experience that you’d like further information on?
- Would you consider having me do a trial or daywork tomorrow to showcase my work ethic and abilities?
- How long do crew members usually stay on board?
- What activities do the crew typically enjoy in their free time?Could you describe the culture within the deck department?
- As someone eager to gain comprehensive experience as a deckhand, will there be opportunities to learn from senior officers, particularly in less familiar areas like the bridge?
- While onboard, can I expect to learn practical skills, such as painting and varnishing?
- Will there be opportunities to work across different departments, such as housekeeping, service, and laundry?
When it’s time to discuss salary and holiday, do so tactfully. You might say:
- “Whilst money/time off isn’t the most important thing for me, it is obviously a factor. What salary bracket are we looking at for this role?”
- “For me, working on a well-run yacht with a happy, motivated crew is the top priority. Can you provide some insight into the crew dynamics and onboard atmosphere?”
Keeping the tone light and focusing on your primary goal of finding a positive work environment can help these questions land more smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Preparing the right questions for your superyacht interview can significantly impact your success. Show your eagerness to contribute, avoid potentially off-putting topics until the right time, and demonstrate your readiness to be a valuable crew member. Good luck, and happy sailing!
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