Sailing Through Interviews: Essential HR Questions for Aspiring Junior Engineers

Intrdocing The Junior Engineer Series

Dear All,

One of the most important missions that the DMET Club undertakes is helping present-day cadets get placed. We have been working with cadets and industry experts, like MarineX, to create e-learning modules and resources. These resources would always be free for present day cadets, thanks to our partners like DMECA, who have left no stone unturned in guiding us to unite DMETians and also the young and dynamic DMET Samvaad Team from bringing transformation and innovation we all needed.

We request all alumni to join DMECA in our effort to unite all DMETians. As a 25+ year old alumni association, their support, guidance, and motivation mean a lot to the DMET Club as well.

About DMECA

Our goal is to ensure that present-day cadets stay updated and ready for what’s coming next, making sure that DMET-MERI-IMU always produces the best marine engineers who are torchbearers in the industry, as they have always been.

With this mission in mind, we are launching a series of blogs to help cadets prepare for shipping company interviews. It is important for alumni to be involved because every single cadet graduating from DMET-MERI-IMU represents our legacy. We cannot say that quality is deteriorating; we must accept that the next generation is better than the last. It is our duty to guide them and ensure they keep the DMET flag flying high.

Pro Tip: There is no right or wrong answer in the HR round. We have compiled some questions to give you a brief idea and a baseline for your interview preparation.

Question 1: Introduce Yourself

Good morning/afternoon, sir/madam. My name is [Your Name]. I am currently in my [Year] year of B.Tech in Marine Engineering at [Name of Maritime Institute]. I gained practical experience during my internship at [Company/Shipyard Name], where I worked on [specific tasks]. Additionally, I have been involved in activities such as [mention clubs or competitions], which have helped me develop [skills] skills. I am passionate about the maritime industry and eager to contribute to [Company's Name].

Question 2: Why join the Merchant Navy?

I want to join the Merchant Navy because it combines my love for the sea with a challenging career. I enjoy working in dynamic environments and am excited about the opportunities to travel the world and gain valuable experience. The prospect of learning new skills and meeting people from different cultures is also very appealing to me.

Question 3: Why this company? Question 4: What do you know about this company? Question 5: Why not any other company?

I am eager to join [Company's Name] because of its strong reputation in the maritime industry. Your commitment to innovation and safety standards aligns perfectly with my career goals. I am particularly impressed by [mention something specific about the company, such as recent achievements, projects, or values], and I believe I can contribute effectively to your team. I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow professionally with [Company's Name].

Example: I am eager to join MSC because of its strong reputation in the maritime industry. Your commitment to innovation and safety standards aligns perfectly with my career goals. I am particularly impressed by MSC's leadership in sustainability initiatives, which reflects a proactive approach to environmental responsibility. I believe I can contribute effectively to your team and am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow professionally with MSC.

Question 6: Why the engine side? Was marine engineering your first choice?

I want to join the engine side because I have a strong interest in marine engineering and enjoy the complexity of ship propulsion systems. I am especially interested in the problem-solving challenges and opportunities that the engine side presents.

Question 7: Why should we hire you? Or How can you be beneficial to the company?

You should hire me because I bring a combination of skills, passion, and dedication that align perfectly with the needs of your company. My strong background in [mention relevant skills or experience] and my commitment to achieving excellence make me confident that I can contribute effectively to your company.

Question 8: Describe yourself in one word.

• Versatile: I can adapt quickly to various roles and situations, bringing a range of skills and perspectives.

• Resilient: I bounce back from setbacks, maintaining focus and determination in challenging circumstances.

• Innovative: I constantly seek creative solutions and improvements to drive progress and efficiency.

• Empathetic: I understand others' perspectives and build strong relationships based on mutual understanding.

• Proactive: I take initiative and anticipate needs, striving to stay ahead and deliver results effectively.

• Analytical: I possess strong analytical skills, enabling me to evaluate situations critically and make informed decisions.

• Collaborative: I thrive in teamwork, fostering open communication and collective achievement towards shared goals.

• Adaptable: I adjust to new environments and challenges, maintaining flexibility and readiness to learn and grow.
  

Question 9: What do you know about this company? Question 10: What kind of vessels does our company have?

Tip: Before your interview with a shipping company, familiarize yourself with the types and number of vessels they operate. Research their fleet composition, including details such as container ships, bulk carriers, or tankers, and understand their geographical presence and trade routes.

Question 11: Where do you see yourself in the future? (5-10 years)?

In 5-10 years, I see myself sailing on ships, applying my skills and experience to ensure smooth and efficient maritime operations.

Question 12: Why did you join DMET? Or How is college? Question 13: Tell me about your college marathon. Question 14: Why did you choose Kolkata and not any other city for your college?

I joined DMET because of its esteemed reputation in maritime education. With a legacy of producing skilled marine engineers, DMET offers specialized training that aligns perfectly with my career aspirations in the maritime industry. I am eager to learn from experienced faculty, gain hands-on experience, and build a solid foundation that will prepare me for a successful career at sea.

Question 15: Tell me something about my hometown. Question 16: Tell me about your father. Question 17: How many siblings do you have? Question 18: Are you vegetarian or non-vegetarian? Question 19: Tell me your father's as well as mother's occupation. Question 20: What is your family's source of income? Question 21: What is your height and weight? Question 22: Any hardship faced recently?

Tip: Prepare brief, positive responses ahead of time for questions about your hometown, family members, and personal background. Focus on sharing relevant details that highlight your upbringing, values, and how they relate to your professional journey. Keep your answers concise, emphasizing key points that demonstrate your suitability for the role without delving into overly personal information.

Question 23: Do you have anyone in your family from the merchant navy?

• Yes: I have a relative who has been in the merchant navy for many years. Their stories about life at sea sparked my interest in maritime careers early on, inspiring me to pursue this path.

• No: I don't have any family members in the merchant navy. However, my interest in maritime engineering and operations grew from my own research and fascination with the sea.
  

Tip: If you know someone in the same company, try to have their rank and their vessel name and type of vessel.

Question 24: What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Strength: My strength lies in my ability to effectively communicate complex ideas in a clear and understandable manner. This skill has enabled me to collaborate efficiently with team members and stakeholders, ensuring that projects move forward smoothly.

• Weakness: One area I've been actively working on is time management. I've recently implemented new strategies, such as prioritizing tasks and using time-blocking techniques, to improve my efficiency and meet deadlines more consistently.
  

Question 25: Biggest hurdle in life and how you overcame it?

When answering questions about overcoming challenges, focus on a specific hurdle that demonstrates resilience and growth. Describe the steps you took to address the challenge, highlighting any lessons learned or skills gained in the process. Emphasize your determination and proactive approach to overcoming obstacles, showing how the experience has positively shaped your personal and professional development.

Question 26: What are your hobbies, and which sports do you love to play?

My hobbies include reading non-fiction books, photography, writing, traveling, and learning about new technologies. I love playing chess and cricket to increase my brain power.

Question 27: What were your marks in 10th and 12th? Question 28: Tell me about your schooling. Question 29: Where did you do your schooling from?

I completed my schooling from [school name] and scored [mention your percentage or grade] in my 10th and [mention your percentage or grade] in my 12th examinations.

Tip: Mention your board during this answer [CBSE/ICSE].

Question 30: Which type of vessel do you prefer to sail on?

I am open to sailing on any type of vessel that aligns with my skills and allows me to contribute effectively to maritime operations. Each type of vessel presents unique challenges and learning opportunities, which I am eager to experience and grow from.

Question 31: How many years do you want to sail? Question 32: How long will you continue to be a seafarer?

I am open to sailing for as long as my career in the maritime industry allows me to grow and contribute effectively.

Question 33: What is dignity of labour?

"Dignity of labour" refers to the belief that all types of work, regardless of their nature or perceived social status, are valuable and worthy of respect. It emphasizes that every job contributes to the functioning of society and deserves appreciation, irrespective of whether it is manual labour, skilled work, or intellectual pursuits. This concept promotes equality in recognizing the importance of each individual's contributions to the overall welfare and progress of society.

Question 34: How will you cope with a multinational crew where the majority of them are from different cultural backgrounds?

I will cope with a multinational crew by fostering cultural sensitivity, promoting effective communication, encouraging team building, resolving conflicts constructively, remaining adaptable, and participating in cultural awareness training.

Question 35: Tell me about a situation where you couldn't get along with a teammate. How did you deal with that situation?

Example: I once encountered a situation where a teammate and I had differing opinions on a project approach. To resolve this, I initiated a private conversation to understand their perspective better and calmly explained mine. We found common ground by focusing on our shared goal and agreed on a compromise that combined our ideas. This experience taught me the importance of patience, listening actively, and finding solutions through respectful dialogue.

Question 36: What do you think about leadership? Question 37: A situation where you exhibited your leadership skills.

Leadership is about guiding and inspiring others towards a common goal, fostering collaboration, and achieving success as a team. One situation where I exhibited leadership skills was during a group project where we faced a tight deadline.

I took the initiative by delegating tasks based on each team member's strengths, ensuring clear communication channels, and motivating everyone to stay focused. By maintaining a positive and supportive environment, we successfully completed the project ahead of schedule, showcasing effective leadership through organization and teamwork.

Question 38: Any question you want to ask?

Absolutely, I'm interested in understanding more about the company culture and how it supports professional growth and development. Could you elaborate on opportunities for ongoing training and advancement within the organization?

Or

I'm interested in [specific aspects of company culture or values]. How does the company incorporate these values into its daily operations?

Question 39: Why the maritime sector and why not IIT and other engineering?

This question probes your motivation and career choice. I chose the maritime sector for its challenges and global impact. Unlike other engineering fields, it offers unique opportunities to innovate and ensure safe maritime operations, which aligns perfectly with my career goals and passion for making a significant global contribution.

Question 40: How did your parents allow you to choose the field despite being a single child?

My parents supported my decision to pursue this field because they recognised my passion and commitment to it.

Question 41: What kind of sports have you participated in and what are some of your achievements?

Example: I have participated in sports like cricket and swimming, where I developed skills in teamwork and discipline. Some achievements include winning inter-college cricket tournaments and achieving proficiency in swimming.

Question 42: What do you do for your physical fitness?

For physical fitness, I maintain a routine that includes regular workouts at the gym, focusing on strength training and cardio exercises. I also enjoy outdoor activities like jogging and swimming to stay active and maintain overall fitness levels.

Question 43: Will you try for UPSC or MBA after some point of time?

I am currently focused on building my career in the merchant navy and honing my skills as a marine engineer. While I appreciate the opportunities that UPSC or an MBA may offer in the future, my immediate goal is to excel in my current field and contribute meaningfully to the industry.

Question 44: Name your core subjects.

Tip: When listing your core subjects, focus on those directly relevant to your field of expertise. Questions will be asked from those.

Question 45: Why do you have arrears in previous semesters?

• Yes: I had arrears in previous semesters. Reflecting on that experience, I identified areas where I needed to improve my study habits and time management skills.

• No: I did not have arrears in previous semesters. I maintained a disciplined approach to my studies, ensuring I stayed on track.
  

Question 46: How can you prove that you will not leave the field in 6 months?

I am committed to a long-term career in maritime engineering. My goal is to build a stable and fulfilling career in this field, ensuring my commitment to it for the long term.

Question 47: As a single child, how would you deal with a situation if your mother is unwell and she wants to meet you urgently while you're onboard?

As a single child, if my mother were unwell and urgently wanted to meet me while I am onboard, I would immediately communicate with my captain and request permission to disembark at the nearest port. I would then make arrangements to travel to my mother as quickly as possible, ensuring her well-being is prioritized while also coordinating with the ship's operations to manage my absence effectively.

Question 48: What is your biggest achievement so far?

My biggest achievement so far is [mention your achievement]. It was a significant milestone in my career/academic journey because [explain why it was important or impactful].

Question 49: Have you watched this (any specific) movie?

If asked about a movie you haven't seen, it's okay to be honest.

Question 50: What is a specialty of your city?

The specialty of my city is its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. It's known for [specific landmarks, cuisine, festivals, or cultural traditions], which attract visitors from around the world.

These questions are curated through extensive research done by present cadets. A special mention goes to Cadet Kush Rana for coordinating with them.

To present-day cadets,

You are not alone in this journey. We, the alumni of DMET, are with you, always!