 What Aviation Employers Expect from Employees
Do you know what employers really want?
Below is a short list of skills and characteristics that aviation
employers have stated they want to see in an employee. Following each
skill or characteristic is a "translation" obtained through individual
interviews with employers. You may be surprised to see what was NOT
mentioned....
Good Communication Skills
Most people would think this means to speak and write well. In
reality, employers want an employee that is first WILLING TO LISTEN.
Employers become frustrated when an employee "shuts them out," showing
disrespect to the boss.
Self Starter
Employers do not want to have to tell you each and everything to do.
For example, if there are no customers right now how about, on your own
initiative, go empty the trash cans or refill the printer with paper or
sweep the shop floor or clean the machines or catch up on paperwork or
learn a new skill?
High Ethical Standards
An employer must be able to trust you with customers. There are many
times when it is just you and the customer alone during a purchase or
conversation. The employer must know that you will do nothing to harm
the customer nor the reputation of the company or even the aviation
industry.
Good People Skills
This does NOT mean chatting with everyone about your personal
problems. Leave your emotional baggage at the door. Only talk
professionally with the customer. This would include making the customer
comfortable by giving the customer a chance to talk about THEIR personal
interests, wants. needs, concerns and fears. Good people skills includes
showing respect for everyone at all times. For instance, using a
person's proper title and last name. NEVER call a customer by their
first name unless they make the request.
Can Follow Instructions
Obeying all the rules and regulations in aviation is critical to the
safety of the customer and you. Part of following instructions is also
recognizing who is the boss. Do not attempt to "go around" the boss. If
you have a problem with the boss, first talk directly to the boss.
Critical Thinking Skills
Aviation Professionals, all day long, must be able to recognize and
solve problems. Critical thinking means that you are capable and willing
to work on a problem until a proper solution is found. It means that you
will not give up and look to someone else to solve the problem for you.
Know Your Limits
Most aviation occupations have a "scope of expertise" or "special
licensing requirements." This is a regulation or company document that
outlines what any worker within a particular area of aviation can
legally do. You must know and follow the scope of practice for your
field. If in doubt, STOP, consult the applicable FAR's and get help.
Visit some health organization websites to get an idea of what is
expected.
Team Player
There is nothing in any aviation field that even comes close to being
a game. Employers want someone who works well with others for the common
good of the customer and the company. Egos should be checked at the
door.
Positive Attitude
When there are many experienced applicants for a
job, employers are more likely to offer the job
to the person who has an outstanding attitude.
The applicant’s attitude isn’t measured
objectively. Usually it is revealed during the
job interview, and the employer weighs it
intuitively.
An employee with a positive attitude is expected
to:
- Have a pleasant demeanor.
- Be courteous.
- Have a good posture and excellent hygiene and
know how to dress appropriately.
- Have an optimistic outlook. They see tasks as
potential opportunities, rather than
insurmountable problems.
- Show enthusiasm for the job. Even without being
hired, they are already engaged in
problem-solving tasks related to the job. They
listen actively and ask insightful, pertinent
questions.
- Be willing to work hard.
- Be reliable, dependable and trustworthy.
Employers may check references to confirm the
impressions they form from the interview.
- Be a team player who enjoys collaborative
efforts and gets along with people.
- Fit in with the organization.
Employers use the application, resume and
interview to gauge how willing you are to do the
job.
They look for evidence that:
- Your values
are aligned with the values of the organization.
- You are a committed to the work involved. For
instance, a professional carpenter who is
committed to the industry’s mission of providing
homes may do voluntary work and donate his time
to Habitat for Humanity.
So....what is missing?
It may have struck you that "competence in the field" was not listed
above. Employers expect that you will be qualified to perform the basic
duties of the job because you will have demonstrated the appropriate
skills during the interview process. Everything else listed above is
expected in addition to competence.
Employers value employees who can do the job
well, who are committed to the work and the
mission of the organization, who have a positive
attitude toward the job and toward their
co-workers and whom they can afford to pay.
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