Most interviews are now held by video. This last part covers the call itself, the salary conversation and what follows.
The video interview
- Setting: a quiet, well-lit place with a plain background. Light should fall on your face.
- Technical: test the connection and sound 15 minutes early. If you use a phone, fix it in place.
- Appearance: a clean, plain shirt or polo is enough.
- Speaking: look at the camera, don't interrupt, and allow for connection delay.
- Have ready: your CV, documents and notes.
If the connection drops, stay calm; reconnect at once or call by phone.
Talking about salary
- Timing: don't raise it in the first minute; discuss it when the company does, or at the end.
- Preparation: look at seafarer jobs for the same rank and vessel type to set a realistic range.
- Ask about the total: not just the monthly figure — basic wage, overtime, leave pay, bonuses and contract length all matter together.
- Currency and payment: which currency, which day of the month, to which account?
- Travel and document costs: joining and repatriation travel and visa costs are for the shipowner (see the MLC Guide).
Image: National Museum of American History / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
When an offer arrives
- Ask for the agreement and read it. You have the right to examine it before signing.
- Check rank, vessel name, wage items, contract length, leave and repatriation clauses.
- Get the joining date and port confirmed in writing.
- If you are asked to pay to get the job, decline; it is a sign of a scam.
A "no" or silence
- After a week, ask politely once.
- If the answer is no, try to learn why; it is the most useful information for your next interview.
- Keep looking at other maritime jobs; don't depend on a single interview.
A "yes"
Prepare your original documents and make sure your medical certificate and other certificates stay valid for the whole contract.
Practical tip: after every interview, write down the questions you were asked. After three or four interviews you will have your own question bank.
Full series: Seafarer Interview Guide
