10 tips to help you succeed in a pilot interview

Interviews can be a daunting process; some people are great at answering questions under pressure but many people struggle with this and become flustered, which can be difficult to recover from during an interview.

Preparation is the key to success when it comes to a great interview, so scheduling some time to prepare is a great idea.

In this blog we will discuss our top 10 tips to be interview ready and maximize your chances of securing a pilot job with your dream airline.

Tip 1 – Dress to impress

Dress sharply for your interview. Business attire (suit) is always a must. It is important to look well-groomed. First impressions definitely count!

If your interview is online dress formally in the same way you would for a face to face interview.

Tip 2 – Be one time

Arrive 10 minutes early if possible. This will give you a chance to sit down, take a few deep breaths and calm your nerves before the interview.

If you are interviewing online, ensure you test your connection at least 15 minutes before the appointed time to avoid any technical issues (test your camera, microphone, etc). Also check your background is clear and ensure you are in a quiet location.

Tip 2 – Always be polite

From the moment you arrive at your interview location, chances are you are being evaluated by the Airline. Introduce yourself and greet everyone politely, from the staff at reception to the interview panel.

Tip 3 – Research your potential employer

Prior to your interview, research the Airline you are applying for. Find out all there is to know about their operation: number of aircraft, fleets, key personnel working for the airline (Chief Pilot, Flight Operations Manager, CEO, etc).

Use your contacts when it comes to researching your potential employer. Reach out to people you know who work for the airline or your recruitment consultant. They may be able to provide you with some valuable information.

Think also about what skills you can bring to the airline and how you can contribute towards the company’s goals and objectives.

Tip 4 – Answer questions politely and to the point

Listen carefully and provide full answers to questions. It is important that you try not to wander too far off track. If you don’t understand the question or forget what you were asked, it is fine to ask the interviewer to repeat the question.

Tip 5 – Watch your body language

Be relaxed but focused and attentive during the interview. Maintaining eye contact with the interviewer is very important, in order to gain their trust.

Tip 6 – Prepare some answers to common interview questions

We recommend you prepare answers to typical interview questions. You don’t have to memorise the answers, however having an idea as to how you would answer some typical interview questions will be helpful. For example, candidates are often asked why they have applied.

Also prepare some real examples of high-pressure situations you have been in where you have had to use your problem thinking abilities successfully. Recruiters who use behavioural question techniques will be wanting to know what the situation was, what tasks needed to be done, what action you took and the result. Thinking about examples that you can use ahead of time will most definitely be of help.

Tip 7 – Brush on your SOP’s

Brushing up on your Standard Operating Procedures before your interview is a must. Having this knowledge fresh in your mind will help during the technical part of the interview.

Tip 8 – Take that glass of water or cup of coffee

If the interviewer offers you a glass of water or a coffee be sure to politely accept one! Having drink to sip on can offer you time to think of an answer to a tricky question.

Tip 9 – Always be positive

Remain positive during your interview, if a situation you are discussing during interview has a negative outcome, try to turn it into a positive one. Never be negative about a previous employer or competitor. Remaining professional during your interview is crucial.

Tip 10 – Prepare some questions for the interviewer

Prepare two or three questions for the interviewer. You may want to find out more about the Airline, the position you are applying for or career opportunities within the company. Remember the interview is not the time to ask about salary, unless the interviewer raises this topic with you.

Following these simple but important tips will give you a much better chance to succeed during your interview. Knowing what to expect and feeling prepared will allow you to answer questions confidently.

Be sure to check our other interesting blogs including: How to prepare candidates for screening assessments and CV tips and tricks.