After years of furloughs and buyout packages, some airlines are finding themselves in need of flight attendants. Have you always wanted to fly the friendly skies? The near future may hold the best chance for you to get those prized wings. But what does it actually take to get hired as a flight attendant?
When airlines open their application process for flight attendants, they are usually flooded with interested people. In 2010, Delta Air Lines received about 100,000 applications for just 1,000 flight attendant positions . The competition is steep, and only about 2 percent of applicants are actually offered a position. Out of that number, not all will become flight attendants, as they have to make it through the challenging training.
Most flight attendant interviews follow a typical pattern. You will be invited to a group interview at the airline’s headquarters. This is not the time to make a fashion statement. You want to dress as closely to a flight attendant as possible. Suits are still expected as well as hose for women. Don’t wear extreme hairstyles or make up either. You want to look completely professional. This goes for travel to and from the interview also. If flying, consider your interview starting as soon as you check in for your flight.
While you want your wardrobe to be subtle, you do want to stand out in the group interview. You don’t have to be the first one to answer every question, but don’t be the last. Smile a lot, and pay attention to what others are saying. Even though you may not be talking, you are still being judged.
If the panel likes what they see in the group, you will usually be invited to a one-on-one interview later the same day. Make sure you stress customer service experience as well as any former airline experience. If you can speak a foreign language, that is definitely a plus for you. Though not required, a college degree is also an asset.
During the interview, you’ll be asked about flying on weekends and holidays. Don’t say you love to if you really don’t. Working weekends and holidays can be expected for the first few years as a flight attendant. Lots of the questions will be asked beginning with, “Describe a time….” Make sure you have good examples that stress customer service. It’s also important to know something about the airline you want to work for. If they have just announced new routes, bought new planes, etc., mention that during your conversations. It will show you’ve done your homework. Be sure and get the names of everyone you speak with, and send thank you notes immediately. Many people have stopped doing this over the years, and it is still an important part of the interview process.
It takes lots of people several attempts to land a flight attendant position. Don’t give up if you’re not successful the first time. Keep trying, and hopefully, you’ll be flying high soon!
Renee Silverfield has spent 15 years as a flight attendant and more than 20 years in the aviation industry.
