6 tips to get your first Pilot job

By Wings Recruitment

Once you have put in the hard work and many flying hours required to obtain your commercial pilot licence, you will be starting to look for your first pilot job!

The lucky few will slot quickly into vacancies conducive to their career aspirations, others may not be sure where they want their pilot career to take them or may have to work harder to find that first role to help them on their way. As Recruitment Consultants, our team speak to new pilots on a regular basis. We have put together some tips to help you get your first pilot job.

1. Network, Network, Network…

Keep in touch with peers, instructors, aviation contacts, family and friends. The aviation world is relatively small and one of your contacts might know someone who can help.

Seek out people and organisations who can assist you in your career journey. Online pilot communities, airline recruitment personnel and agents can all offer advice and assistance.

Read our blog: LinkedIn 101 for networking online.

2. Do your research

Find out which Airlines are currently hiring and contact the Airline or Recruitment Agent. We are always on the lookout for new pilots and if a suitable position isn’t currently available, you can often register your details so you can be contacted when one is. Don’t’ forget to check in and update your details on a regular basis.

3. Be memorable

It is very easy to send off an application via email but if you want to stand out from the crowd I recommend following up with a polite phone call the next day to introduce yourself and to check that the person received your application. A phone call demonstrates that you are keen to secure the position and you will have started forging a relationship with the organisation.

4. Get your paperwork in order

Pilots are often asked for a number of documents when they apply for a vacancy. It is a good idea to scan clear, colour copies of your documents so that they are easy to send via email when requested. To find out more about the types of documents you should have on hand, check our blog What information do Airlines ask for when I apply for a job and why?

5. Personalise your application

Always personalise your CV and cover letter for the position you are applying for (and don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile too). Pay attention to the job description, this is your application guide.

Review the competencies and requirements that the organisation is seeking and relate this to your own experience. Ask a friend to proof read and check your CV before you send it away. With spell check functions and a multitude of CV templates available online there is no excuse for a poorly spelled and badly formatted CV.

6. Find a mentor

Mentors are individuals who pass on their knowledge and experience to those who are less experienced. If your aim is to fly for an airline then you might like to seek out a mentor who is already flying in an airline. Mentors can provide advice about how they got to where they are, provide support and offer guidance.

At WINGS Recruitment we understand how daunting it can be to start your pilot career. We are always looking to meet new pilots and happy to answer any questions you might have. Register with us or email us directly.

By Anna Milne

Anna is the Recruitment Manager at WINGS Recruitment. She enjoys making connections and believes in networking as an essential recruitment tool.