Cathay aims high in recruitment drive

To cope with its expansion, Cathay Pacific plans to hire more than 300 flight attendants.

Candidates will undergo a stringent series of assessments and interviews. These include career talks, tests measuring arm reach, group discussions, proficiency tests in Putonghua and English, presentations and debates, assessments of work preferences, and one-on-one interviews.

'We will select outstanding candidates from each round, who then go on to the next stage of the selection process,' says Melody Keung, career development and resourcing manager for the airline's in-flight service department. 'However, we will still consider candidates who don't pass every test. We may take more time to review their qualifications and performance, and contact them a couple of weeks later.'

Applicants should have an excellent service mindset and a genuine interest in a career involving extensive customer contact. They should also be culturally sensitive since they will deal with passengers from all over the world.

Fresh graduates without significant work experience are welcome to apply.

New recruits will complete five weeks of classroom training, covering safety, emergency procedures, technical and service skills, grooming, and knowledge of different types of aircraft.

'All cabin crew are required to attend the annual emergency and safety training,' Keung says. 'Special training is provided to prepare high-potential staff at different levels for future promotions.'

Boarding procedures

All applicants must be presentable

Assessment is continuous throughout the recruitment process and not limited to specific interviews or tests

How much you earn

Senior flight purser

HK$15,000 or more

Five years up

Flight purser

HK$12,000 to HK$15,000

Two to five years

Flight attendant

HK$8,000 to HK$10,000

Entry-level position

Credit: Levin Human Capital Consulting Group