It is a common misconception that the Gift Shop and Retail Sales position is the only cruise ship job that is suited to an applicant with a strong sales background. Contrary to this assumption, there are plenty of other jobs onboard that a person with sales experience could apply for.
So which jobs are they and what other experience and skills are required?
For starters, jobs such as the Port and Shopping Guide, the Art Auctioneer and the Cruise Consultant all benefit from having a sales experience. Additionally, these positions are held by persons that have an entrepreneurial spirit, possess public speaking skills and can work independently. Keep in mind, though that with those three jobs, there is only one position per ship.
Alternatively, having a strong sales background is extremely beneficial when it comes to applying for a cruise ship job such as Photographer or Salon and Spa staff. Although applicants applying for those jobs still need all the technical training to back up their experience, having sales skills will put their resume on top of the pile.
For example, a photographer with all the photography skills in the world is no use to the cruise line if he can’t get the passengers to pose for pictures. And a hairdresser won’t meet her product sales targets if she is not selling creams, sprays and serums. Furthermore, your pay is made up of commissions, so the more you can sell, the more you can make.
For more information, members can read the following articles,