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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Tell us about a time when you had to handle a difficult customer and how you resolved the situation.

Flight Attendant Interview Questions
Tell us about a time when you had to handle a difficult customer and how you resolved the situation.

Sample answer to the question

I once had a difficult customer on a flight who was upset about not receiving their preferred meal option. They became increasingly agitated and started expressing their frustration loudly. I calmly approached the customer, introduced myself as the flight attendant, and empathized with their disappointment. I assured them that I would do my best to find a solution. I quickly checked with the galley to see if any extra meals were available, but unfortunately, there were none. I apologized for the inconvenience and offered them an alternative meal option from the available choices. Although initially reluctant, the customer eventually accepted the alternative option and calmed down. Throughout the interaction, I remained patient, attentive, and understanding, ensuring that the customer felt heard and valued.

A more solid answer

I had a challenging experience with a customer during a flight when they were unhappy with the available meal options. The customer was growing increasingly frustrated and began expressing their dissatisfaction loudly. Understanding the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere, I approached the customer with a calm and composed demeanor. Introducing myself as a flight attendant, I empathized with their disappointment and assured them that I would do my best to find a solution. After checking with the galley, I discovered that there were no extra meals available. I sincerely apologized for the inconvenience and offered them an alternative meal option from the choices that were available. Initially, the customer was hesitant, but after further discussion and reassurance, they accepted the alternative option and gradually calmed down. Throughout the interaction, I remained patient, attentive, and understanding, making sure that the customer felt heard and valued. By effectively managing the situation and resolving the issue to the best of my ability, I was able to uphold the high standard of customer service expected from a flight attendant.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer includes more details and specificity, addressing all the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description. It demonstrates effective communication skills, customer service orientation, problem-solving abilities, professionalism, and empathy. However, it can still be improved by providing more specific examples and emphasizing the actions taken to address the customer's concerns.

An exceptional answer

During a flight, I encountered a challenging situation with a customer who was extremely displeased with the quality of the in-flight entertainment system. The customer approached me in a state of frustration, explaining that their system was not functioning properly and they were unable to enjoy their long-haul flight. Understanding the significance of providing a satisfactory experience to all passengers, I immediately apologized for the inconvenience and assured the customer that I would personally resolve the issue. I approached our onboard technician and explained the situation, requesting their assistance. While the technician worked on troubleshooting the customer's system, I engaged in a conversation with the customer to keep them distracted and alleviate their frustration. I empathized with their disappointment and offered sincere apologies for the inconvenience they were experiencing. After a few attempts, the technician was able to resolve the issue, and I ensured that the customer's entertainment system was now functioning perfectly. Not only did I provide an immediate solution, but I also went above and beyond by offering the customer a complimentary upgrade to a premium seat to compensate for the inconvenience they had faced. The customer expressed their gratitude for the exceptional service and left the flight feeling satisfied and valued.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes into further detail, providing a specific and challenging scenario where the customer's issue was resolved. It demonstrates exemplary communication skills, customer service orientation, problem-solving abilities, professionalism, and empathy. The candidate took proactive measures to resolve the issue, engaged with the customer throughout the process, and offered a meaningful gesture to compensate for the inconvenience. This answer highlights the candidate's ability to excel in handling difficult customer situations.

How to prepare for this question

  • Reflect on your past experiences with difficult customers and identify specific examples to talk about during the interview.
  • Highlight the steps you took to address the customer's concerns and how you remained calm, composed, and empathetic throughout the interaction.
  • Emphasize your ability to think on your feet and make quick decisions in stressful situations.
  • Showcase your problem-solving skills by sharing examples of how you resolved challenging customer situations.
  • Demonstrate your attention to detail by discussing instances where you went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Practice active listening and effective communication techniques to convey empathy and understanding during the interview.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Communication Skills
  • Customer Service Orientation
  • Problem Solving
  • Professionalism
  • Empathy

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