Careers & Classifieds Channel

Aviation Job Interviews

courtesy of Avjobs.com

While most job applicants are well aware of the need for well-prepared resumes and cover letter, many do not realize the need to spend an equal amount of time mastering the interview skills necessary to be effective in today's aviation market. Learning how to interview effectively, how to market yourself well, and how to handle salary issues once an offer is made are the subjects of Interactive Practice Interview and Tools area of the Avjobs Applicant Portal.

The purpose of the job interview is to persuade the employer that you have the skills, background, and ability to do the job and that you can comfortably fit into their organization.

Before starting a new job, you may be required to attend an interview. The purpose is to observe and evaluate certain personal characteristics to determine whether you possess the following essential qualities:

Aviation employers may use selective placement practices for positions that require particular knowledge and skills.  Consideration may be restricted to those candidates whose background indicate that they possess those knowledge and skills. For example, an Aviation Safety Inspector as an operational position may require ability to operate a specific type of jet aircraft or helicopter in which case consideration may be restricted to candidates who have ratings in that type of aircraft.  As another example, positions that primarily require knowledge and skill in maintenance of avionics equipment may be restricted to candidates whose backgrounds demonstrate knowledge and skill in the avionics area. Alternately, separate criteria may be established for eligible applicants with avionics expertise.

Everyone must understand that you are not just being evaluated on your experience and education alone, but also by your looks, personality, confidence, enthusiasm, and any other attribute that can help them decide whether or not you are right for the job. You may find out that some people get hired just because the interviewer "liked" them. Of course this is not always the case, but developing effective interviewing skills can help!