The Art of Professionalism

The Art of Professionalism

by Lynsey Howell | ATP, AMES, AMEL, & Aviaiton Career Coach

We all know that first impressions are important, but do you know exactly how much time you have to make that first impression as a pilot? Within the first seven seconds of meeting, others will form lasting impressions of you. This means you will be judged on your looks long before you will be judged on your words or actions.

As pilots, being professional should always be of utmost importance. The general public needs to trust that pilots are capable, smart, detail-oriented, and safe. Being a professional means working and behaving in such a way that others think- Yes! This person can do this _________. 

We all may wish there weren’t these expectations placed upon us, yet the reality is that they are. 

One day I flew Kaley Cuoco (The Big Bang Theory actress) during her pink hair phase. I thought to myself, when I’m not a pilot anymore I'm going to have pink hair just like her. What I really meant was, when I no longer need to represent a person of high professional standards I’ll do what I want and have cool, hip, Hollywood Hair. 

Many airlines have very strict and descriptive dress codes for both male and female pilots. For example: only one ring per hand, earrings should be either small hoops or studs, facial jewelry is prohibited, hairstyles need to be conservative and even the required length of sideburns and mustaches will make you get out the ruler to measure down to the ¼ inch. These same guidelines are also smart to follow during any aviation interview.

Being a professional also means how you carry yourself, how you respect the job you do, and how you treat other people. Some examples are showing up to the airport early, making sure your aircraft is clean, being kind to the line guys. One rule of thumb is leaving things nicer than how you found it.

Professionalism is about proving to a potential employer that you have been practicing the art of professionalism for a long time. Afterall, past performance provides insight into one’s future performance. 

How are you presenting yourself as a professional today?

Make your first impression, a lasting one! Visit Aviator Mercantile Post’s Stationary & hand-picked Bags selection to perfect your art of professionalism.

For valuable industry insight & career coaching visit Lynsey’s website