Interviewing at Southwest Airlines can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience. As one of the largest domestic airlines in the United States, Southwest has a very thorough interview process to find the best candidates to fit their culture. Being prepared with commonly asked interview questions can help calm those nerves and lead to interview success.
I have interviewed numerous times over my career as a pilot and flight attendant Through my own experiences and talking with others who have interviewed at Southwest, I have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions and provided tips on how to best answer them Read on to learn more about what to expect during a Southwest Airlines interview along with sample responses.
Southwest Airlines Pilot Interview Questions
The pilot interview process at Southwest is very robust, with up to 6 separate interviews, including a simulator evaluation. Here are some of the most common questions asked during the pilot interview process:
Tell me about yourself,
This is often the opening question in an interview. Southwest wants to learn about your background and experiences that have led you to this point. Focus your 1-2 minute response on your aviation experiences and how they have prepared you to be a Southwest pilot.
Why do you want to work for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest puts a big emphasis on culture and finding candidates that align with their values. Be specific on why Southwest’s culture, mission, and values resonate with you. Highlight things like their stellar safety record, excellent employee relations, and unique approach to customer service.
What are your career goals?
Southwest wants to see you are in it for the long haul. Talk about your desires to move up within Southwest, such as upgrading to Captain and taking on additional leadership roles over time.
Tell me about a challenging situation you faced as a pilot and how you handled it.
Use real examples that demonstrate problem-solving skills, professionalism, and maturity under pressure. Good stories to use involve weather diversions, system malfunctions, or difficult passengers. Focus on the actions you took and the positive results.
Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a coworker. How was it resolved?
The key here is to keep your response positive. Talk about listening to the other person’s perspective, finding common ground, and coming to a resolution or compromise. Emphasize the importance of teamwork.
Do you have any questions for me?
Always bring 2-3 thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest in the company and the position. Inquire about additional training programs, advancement opportunities, and the interviewer’s own experience at Southwest.
Southwest Flight Attendant Interview Questions
The flight attendant interview process typically involves 2-3 separate interviews. Here are some commonly asked questions:
Why do you want to be a Flight Attendant?
Talk about your passion for aviation, desire to work with travelers, and interest in Southwest’s fun, friendly culture. Share any experiences that sparked your interest in the career.
How would you handle an upset passenger?
Show you can de-escalate conflicts with politeness, active listening, and empathy. Give an example of a time you calmed an angry customer in past job. Emphasize safety is always the top priority.
You notice your coworker is performing tasks incorrectly. What would you do?
Focus your response on politely coaching your coworker through constructive feedback and encouraging them to correct errors. Mention you would involve a supervisor if needed.
Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
Share a real example that highlights your commitment to excellent customer service. Describe the situation briefly, the actions you took, and the positive impact it had.
What do you know about Southwest’s culture?
Show you’ve done your research on Southwest’s history, mission, and values. Talk about things like their fun-loving attitude, charitable involvement, and “Servant’s Heart” culture.
What are your availability expectations if hired?
Emphasize complete open availability, especially for weekends, holidays and varied shifts. Show your understanding of their reserve system and willingness to fly when and where needed.
Preparation is Key
Preparing responses to common Southwest Airlines interview questions well in advance is one of the best ways to boost your confidence and maximize your chances of getting hired. Use these tips and sample answers as a starting point when getting ready for your upcoming interview. With practice and dedication to showcasing your fit with Southwest’s culture, you will be one step closer to potentially beginning a lucrative career with one of America’s most respected airlines. Best of luck!
Interview Tips: Customer Service Rep
Hi There, Ive applied for SWs customer service rep. Im hoping for an interview. Thanks for your time. What should I wear? What should I do to get ready for the interview?
Re: Interview Tips: Customer Service Rep
I thought I would offer some tips for when the interview does happen. Most importantly, make sure you know what Southwest Airlines stands for, what its mission and vision are, and what department you want to work for. As an applicant, I believe it is important to ask about the job and the department. For example, where do you see yourself in this position in 90 days or six months? What do you think will be my biggest challenge in this role? What extra training do you offer? Also, don’t chew gum or have gum in your mouth during the interview. Also, keep your phone out of sight while you wait to be called in for the interview and don’t look at it during the interview. I think that’s very unprofessional. I think you should wear nice pants and a nice shirt. For me, business casual means soft makeup, simple jewelry, and a neutral lip color. Be sure to keep your back straight and remember that you are the best person for the job. Also, don’t forget to bring a pen, your driver’s license, your social security card, and your resume. You never know when they might need you to sign something or show them official government documents because they want to hire you right away. I hope this helps! Good Luck!! Youve Got This!!!.
Have a LUVly day,
Southwest Airlines Interview Questions with Answer Examples
FAQ
Why do you want to work for Southwest Airlines?
Is it hard to get hired at Southwest Airlines?
How long is the Southwest Airlines interview?
How do I find a job at Southwest Airlines?
Glassdoor has millions of jobs plus salary information, company reviews, and interview questions from people on the inside making it easy to find a job that’s right for you. Southwest Airlines interview details: 2,169 interview questions and 1,631 interview reviews posted anonymously by Southwest Airlines interview candidates.
What was the interview process like at Southwest Airlines?
See what people said about the interview process at Southwest Airlines. you access to the airport depend on how well was your background check. It was an internal interview. Just like all interviews, dress to impress. More scenario type questions Where do you see yourself in five years?
Can You Ace a Southwest Airlines interview?
Congratulations on getting a Southwest Airlines Interview. We all know interviews are stressful and competition is intense. However, with a small amount of preparation, you can ace the Southwest Airlines interview. Here you will find frequently asked Southwest Interview Questions and Answers for all positions.
How do I prepare for an interview at Southwest Airlines?
Prepare yourself for your interview at Southwest Airlines by browsing Interview questions and processes from real candidates.
