20 Holland America Interview Questions and Answers

As one of the oldest names in the cruise industry, Holland America has a reputation for excellence. If you’re lucky enough to land an interview with this company, you’ll want to be prepared to answer some specific questions about your qualifications and experience.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to answer Holland America interview questions so you can make a great impression and increase your chances of getting the job.

Holland America Interview Process

The interview process at Holland America can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like Youth Staff or Musician, the process is fairly straightforward and only requires a few steps. For other positions, like Paid Search Manager or Financial Analyst, the process is more involved and may include multiple interviews. Overall, the interview process is generally positive, though some applicants have reported feeling ghosted or disorganized.

1. Why do you want to work for Holland America?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in working for their company. It’s important to show that you have done some research on Holland America and can speak positively about its history, values or mission statement.

Example: “I want to work for Holland America because I’ve always been fascinated by the cruise industry. I love traveling and exploring new places, so I think it would be an amazing experience to get paid to do what I love. I also really admire the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.”

2. What is your experience in the cruise industry?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have experience working in the cruise industry. If you don’t have any experience, it’s important to highlight other relevant work experiences and how they relate to the job.

Example: “I worked as a server on a luxury cruise ship for two years before I started my current role at the resort. My previous position was very similar to this one, where I had to interact with guests and provide excellent service. This experience has given me valuable insight into what makes a good cruise experience.”

3. Are you comfortable working with a wide range of people from different cultures and backgrounds?

Holland America is a company that prides itself on its diversity and inclusivity. The cruise line hires employees from all over the world, so it’s important to be able to work with people of different backgrounds and cultures. Your answer should show your willingness to learn about other cultures and adapt to new situations.

Example: “I am very comfortable working with people from different backgrounds. I have worked for companies where my coworkers were from many different countries, and I’ve learned how to communicate effectively with them. I also speak two languages fluently, which has helped me understand cultural differences even more.”

4. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with conflict within your team, how did you handle it?

Holland America is a company that values teamwork and collaboration. Your answer should show the interviewer how you can work well with others, even in challenging situations.

Example: “I once worked on a project where my team had to collaborate with another department. The other team was very unorganized and didn’t communicate effectively. This led to miscommunication between our teams, which caused some delays in our project. I met with the other team leader and discussed ways we could improve communication and avoid future issues. We both agreed to hold weekly meetings to discuss progress and any challenges we faced.”

5. Do you have any experience working on a boat or ship before?

This question is asked to see if you have any experience working on a boat or ship. If you do, the interviewer wants to know how it compares to working on a cruise ship. If you don’t have any experience working on a boat or ship, explain why and what your previous work experience was like.

Example: “I’ve never worked on a boat or ship before, but I did work as a bartender for three years at a local bar. The job required me to multitask between serving customers drinks and taking orders over the phone. It also involved cleaning up after myself and my coworkers when we were done with our shifts.”

6. How would you respond if a passenger became angry at you?

Cruise ships are often home to a diverse group of people, and sometimes conflicts arise. Your answer should show that you can handle conflict in a professional manner while maintaining the safety of yourself and others.

Example: “I would first try to understand why they were upset. If it was something I could fix, I would do so immediately. If not, I would apologize for their inconvenience and offer them an alternative solution. If the passenger became aggressive or threatening, I would call security and alert my supervisor.”

7. Would you be uncomfortable working long hours?

Cruise ships are often staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Holland America is no exception to this rule and employees may be required to work long shifts or overtime. The interviewer wants to make sure you’re comfortable with the schedule that’s typical of working on a cruise ship.

Example: “I’m used to working long hours as part of my current job. I enjoy being busy and find it rewarding when I can help others. However, I also know how important it is to take time for myself and have scheduled breaks throughout the day.”

8. Are you willing to relocate for this position?

Holland America is a cruise line that offers cruises to destinations all over the world. As such, they are looking for candidates who are willing to relocate if necessary. If you have no problem with relocating, be sure to mention this in your answer.

Example: “Yes, I am more than happy to move to any location where Holland America has a ship docked. I love traveling and exploring new places, so moving would not be an issue for me.”

9. What are your thoughts on customer service?

Customer service is a key part of working in the hospitality industry, and cruise ships are no exception. Holland America wants to know that you understand how important it is to provide excellent customer service to their guests.

Example: “I believe that providing great customer service is one of the most important parts of my job. I want every guest who comes on board to have an amazing experience, so I always go above and beyond to make sure they’re happy. If there’s something they need or if they have any questions, I’m always available to help them out.”

10. What qualities should we look for when hiring someone for this position?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the company and what they value in their employees. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list out specific qualities that you have or that you think are important for someone working on a cruise ship.

Example: “I believe Holland America values hard work and dedication from its employees. I am always willing to put in extra time to make sure my work is done well and on time. Another quality they should look for is customer service skills. As a guest services representative, I would want to ensure that all guests feel welcome and comfortable while onboard.”

11. Describe the best manager you’ve ever worked for.

This question is a great way to show your potential employer that you’re looking for a manager who can help you grow and develop as an employee. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the skills or characteristics of your previous manager that made them so effective.

Example: “The best manager I’ve ever worked for was my supervisor at my last job. She was always very encouraging and supportive when we needed her to be, but she also knew how to hold us accountable when we weren’t meeting our goals. She had a lot of experience in customer service, which helped her give us advice on how to better serve our customers.”

12. When was a time that you went above and beyond for a customer?

Cruise lines are in the customer service industry, so it’s important to show that you’re willing to go above and beyond for your customers. This question is a great way to showcase your dedication to providing excellent customer service.

Example: “When I was working at my previous job as a sales associate, one of our most loyal customers came into the store looking for a new pair of shoes. He had been wearing his current pair for years, but they were starting to fall apart. I asked him what he liked about his old shoes, and we found a similar style that would work better for him. He ended up buying two pairs because he loved them so much.”

13. Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s used to determine your career goals. Holland America wants employees who are motivated and have plans for their future. When answering this question, make sure you show that you’re ambitious and willing to work hard to achieve your goals.

Example: “I see myself as the manager of my own department at Holland America. I’m very passionate about customer service, so I would love to be able to oversee all of the staff members who provide excellent service to our guests. In five years, I hope to have worked my way up to this position.”

14. Working on a cruise ship can be stressful. Have you dealt with stress on the job before?

Cruise ships are often busy places, and employees may have to work long hours. Holland America wants to make sure you’re prepared for this type of environment. In your answer, explain how you’ve dealt with stress in the past. Share a specific example from your experience that shows you can handle stressful situations.

Example: “I’ve worked on cruise ships before, so I know what it’s like to be working in a fast-paced environment. When I was working as a server at a restaurant, we had a very busy night where we were short staffed. I took charge of my section and helped out wherever I could. We got through the rush without any issues, and our customers left happy.”

15. Can you tell us more about your background in music?

Holland America is known for its live music and entertainment, so the interviewer may want to know if you have any experience in this area. If you do, share your past experiences with them. If not, explain that you are willing to learn more about it.

Example: “I’ve been playing guitar since I was a teenager. My parents were always supportive of my passion for music, and they even paid for lessons when I was younger. I played in several bands throughout high school and college, and I also taught private lessons at a local music store.”

16. What is your favorite place in the world?

Cruise ships often travel to many different destinations, so it’s important that you enjoy traveling. This question helps the interviewer learn more about your personality and how you might fit in with their team. Answer honestly and try to include details about why you like this place.

Example: “My favorite place in the world is a small island off the coast of Florida called Sanibel Island. I’ve been going there since I was a child, and my family has a vacation home there. It’s such a beautiful place to relax and unwind, and I love being able to spend time with my family while enjoying the beach.”

17. What kind of environment do you like to work in?

Holland America is a cruise line that offers many different kinds of cruises, from family-friendly to more adult-oriented. The interviewer wants to make sure you will be comfortable in the environment they offer on their ships.

Example: “I love working with people and I enjoy being able to help them have a great time. I like to work in an environment where we can all have fun together while still maintaining professionalism. I think Holland America has a reputation for offering both.”

18. We need someone who’s flexible. Will you be able to work weekends, holidays and nights?

Cruise ships often have special events and holidays, so the interviewer wants to make sure you’re flexible enough to work when needed. Answer honestly about your flexibility and willingness to do whatever is necessary for the job.

Example: “I’m happy to work any time of day or night as long as I get my eight hours of sleep. I understand that working on a cruise ship means sometimes having to work weekends and holidays, but I am willing to do what’s best for the company.”

19. What type of music do you play?

Holland America is known for its live music, and the cruise line often hires musicians to perform on board. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience playing a variety of instruments and can play in front of an audience. If you do not have professional musical experience, you can talk about your love of music and how you enjoy listening to different types of music.

Example: “I played trumpet in my high school band, but I also really enjoy classical music. My favorite composer is Mozart, but I also like Beethoven and Chopin. When I’m not working, I like to listen to classical music while I read or write.”

20. What makes you qualified for this position?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and how it relates to this position. Use examples from your experience that show you have what it takes to succeed in this role.

Example: “I am an experienced customer service representative, so I know how important it is to make sure every guest has a positive experience on board. In my last position, I was responsible for answering phones and emails, as well as resolving any issues guests had with their reservations or onboard experiences. I also worked closely with other departments to ensure our customers’ needs were met.”