Articles · for crewing agencies · Batumi
A setup for online tests and seafarer video interviews
A test stops in a power cut, the shipowner cannot hear the candidate, the browser starts updating mid-test — the seafarer loses a chance and the office loses time. One properly prepared seat solves nearly all of this.
The computer
- A dedicated computer for tests and interviews only — no extra software, pop-ups or stray tabs.
- Up-to-date Windows with updates done in advance, not during a test. The browser recommended by the test provider.
- Check the test provider's technical requirements (CES, Marlins and others) — I set up each seat against them.
- A trial run before the first test: camera, microphone, the test website.
Camera, sound and light
- A webcam at eye level and a headset with a microphone — a laptop's built-in mic picks up office noise.
- Light from the front, not a window behind the candidate.
- A quiet corner or room.
Internet and power
- The test computer on a cable, not Wi-Fi.
- Backup internet: a mobile router or a second provider, switchable in a minute.
- A UPS for the computer and router — power cuts happen in Batumi.
- A separate guest Wi-Fi for seafarers in the waiting area.
What I do
I prepare test and interview seats end to end: computer, settings, camera and headset, cabling, backup internet, UPS and a trial run. As a seaman by training I know how much the test means to the candidate.
FAQ
Questions and answers
How much does a seat cost?
Setup is from 50 GEL per computer; equipment (camera, headset, UPS) at receipt price, no markup.
Will an ordinary laptop do?
Yes, if it is not overloaded with software and is cabled to a stable connection.
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