Tell me about a time when you had to take directions and learn from a senior crew member.

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a deckhand on a yacht, I had the opportunity to work closely with a senior crew member who was a highly experienced bosun. One particular instance comes to mind when I had to learn from him and follow his directions. We were preparing to set sail for a long journey, and part of the preparation involved inspecting and testing the survival craft and rescue boats. This was an important task to ensure the safety of everyone on board. The senior bosun took the lead in this process, and I was assigned to assist him. He patiently explained each step of the inspection and showed me how to properly operate the equipment. I observed him closely and asked questions whenever I needed clarification. By working alongside him and following his directions, I learned a great deal about the different components of the survival craft and the proper maintenance procedures. This experience taught me the importance of paying attention to detail and following instructions accurately in order to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers.

A more solid answer

During my time as a deckhand on a yacht, I had the valuable opportunity to collaborate with a senior bosun on a project that required me to take directions and learn from him. We were tasked with preparing the deck for a major painting project. The senior bosun had extensive experience in deck maintenance and painting, so I knew I had a lot to learn from him. He patiently walked me through the process of prepping the surface, selecting the appropriate paint, and applying it correctly. He taught me techniques for achieving smooth and even strokes, as well as how to handle challenging areas such as corners and edges. He emphasized the importance of attention to detail and precision. Under his guidance, I quickly gained confidence in my painting skills and developed a keen eye for imperfections. This experience not only improved my ability to follow directions but also enhanced my attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands upon the basic answer by providing more specific details about the task and the candidate's role in it. It also highlights the skills they learned and how those skills have benefited them. However, the answer could be further improved by showcasing the candidate's communication and teamwork skills during this experience.

An exceptional answer

As a deckhand on a ship, I had the privilege of working closely with a highly respected senior bosun who became a mentor to me. One memorable instance where I learned invaluable lessons from him was during a challenging repair project. We were tasked with replacing a damaged section of the ship's rigging, a task that required intricate knowledge and precise execution. The senior bosun took me under his wing and patiently taught me the step-by-step process involved in dismantling and reassembling the rigging. He shared his vast expertise, explaining the importance of each component and how they work together to ensure the ship's stability and performance. His guidance extended beyond technical skills and encompassed effective communication and teamwork. He emphasized the significance of clear communication with other crew members and the value of collaboration in achieving successful outcomes. Through this experience, I not only gained technical proficiency but also developed stronger communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. I am grateful for the mentorship of the senior bosun and the lasting impact it has had on my professional growth.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a vivid and engaging story that showcases the candidate's growth and development under the mentorship of the senior bosun. It highlights not only the technical skills they learned but also the soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. The answer effectively demonstrates the candidate's ability to learn from a senior crew member and apply those lessons to their work.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you worked with a senior colleague and had to take directions and learn from them. Think about specific tasks or projects where you were able to grow and develop under their guidance.
Consider the transferable skills you gained from those experiences, such as communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
Research and familiarize yourself with common deck operations and maintenance tasks, as well as maritime terminology. This will help you provide specific examples and demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
Practice articulating your experiences in a clear and concise manner. Focus on highlighting the skills you acquired and how they align with the requirements of the role.
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about opportunities for learning and growth within the company. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm for continuous improvement and development.

What interviewers are evaluating

Communication skills
Ability to learn
Ability to take directions
Teamwork
Attention to detail