Starting your job search can be intimidating, but just know that you're not alone if you're trying to find a new job but need help figuring out where to begin. To perfect your job search and help increase your chances of securing the position you want, follow these steps:
How to begin your job search
Need help figuring out where to start your new pilot jobs search? No worries.. we've created this step-by-step guide of what you could do to get the job of your dreams!
1. Consider your career objectives.
You should carefully consider your career goals before you begin a new job search; start by creating a five-year plan looking at where you would like to be at each point throughout the journey. By outlining your career objectives, you can keep your pilot jobs search focused and aligned with your end goal. You can better understand the kinds of jobs you should be applying for with the aid of your five-year map.
2. Create or revise a CV
Making a CV that emphasises your strengths and understanding how to make your CV stand out to persuade employers to hire you is one of the most crucial steps in any job search. If you have an outdated CV, update it per the most recent CV trends and ensure all of your work histories are current. Then make sure to keep it updated in your Aviation Job Search profile!
3. Creating a CV
It can take time to write a CV. Fortunately, there are multiple options available.. we would always suggest researching good CV templates, then having it reviewed by professionals. You can have your reviewed for free by Top CV here!
Whatever design you choose, your CV must always contain the following details:
Your contact information, a CV objective or summary, your work history, your education, and your skills
4. Locate aircraft owners using the CAA database and sort by type
You've flown various aircraft types and have even developed a few favourites you like to fly... how can you locate the base where those aircraft are stationed though? Although using the CAA database requires time and effort, you will have an advantage over the competition because so many pilots choose not to. To sort the data you downloaded from the CAA, you will need Excel or Google Sheets.
- visit www.CAA.gov.
- Select Aircraft Certification by clicking on Licenses & Certification.
- Click on Aircraft Inquiry after selecting Search Aircraft Registration Information.
- Select your state and county by clicking on it, then click the "Submit" button.
- Click the green Excel icon to download it as an.xls file on the results page.
- Open the file in Excel to sort and search.
- Utilise the information on your whittled list to send CVs or contact the person or business flight department you are interested in.
5. Bulk apply.. within reason
Something that can help create a far more efficient job search is the power of bulk apply. When you first build the motivation to apply for a job, keep going! It's easier to apply for other jobs while you're in the swing of it.
6. Find flight schools using a flight school directory
If you are a CFI, you can locate flight schools nearby and focus your job search there. Online resources abound that can be used to locate flight schools. The AOPA website has one of the best at this address: http://flighttraining.aopa.org/learntofly/school/flight schools/
7. Network on forums
Wherever you are in your career, you can network with other experienced pilots and ask for career advice in the forum. It just provides another space to be with the aviation community!
8. Don't Just Rely on Online Resources for Your Research
Social media has changed the world. It does not, however, imply that you should ignore other opportunities. Participate in career fairs, approach hiring managers, or seek career counselling services. Extending opportunities and utilising all job search options can only be beneficial.
9. Look for a mentor
People who serve as mentors impart their wisdom and experience to those who lack it. If flying for an airline is your goal, you should find a mentor who is already a pilot for an airline. Mentors can offer support, guidance, and advice about how they got to where they are.
10. Prepare your paperwork
When a pilot applies for a position, several documents are frequently required. To make it simple to send documents via email when needed, scan clear, coloured copies of your documents and create a folder, either digitally or a physical folder, so that you can access those documents as and when needed. This includes having them somewhere on your phone!
11. Compose an effective cover letter
Even if a cover letter isn't mentioned in the job description, you should still write one. You have the ideal chance to introduce yourself as a candidate in your cover letter. Additionally, most employers will value the fact that you went beyond the requirements for the application.
12. A single-page CV
Your cover letter should be one page (or 250 to 400 words). The content should include a summary of your qualifications for the position you're applying for and why you're interested in it.
13. Make your application more unique
Always tailor your CV and cover letter to the job you are applying for, and remember to keep your LinkedIn profile up to date. Please pay close attention to the job description; use it as a guide for your application and intentionally include words that they've used in the description in your cover letter - this will help you bypass the ATS if they are using one.
14. Modify your CV to fit the position you want
Most job seekers believe that after creating their CV, they can send the same copy to each employer. Although you can do this, there are more effective methods. It will help if you modify your CV for the position to differentiate yourself from other candidates and increase your chances of getting the job.
15. Remove the Fuzz
It may appear that using phrases like "teamwork," "communication," and "leadership" will help you fill out your skills section. Is that a wise plan? Not unless you can support them. We advise going back and removing them if they are merely meaningless words that you believe will impress the recruiter (or fill up space on your CV).
16. Stand out
It is simple to apply via email, but if you want to stand out from the competition, I suggest making a courteous phone call the following day to introduce yourself and ensure the recipient of your application received it. A phone call shows you are motivated to get the job and establish a connection with the company.
17. Avoid lying
First-case scenario: You show up for the interview and are exposed for lying. The second scenario is that you are hired but must keep your promise. It's not worth it.
18. Be particular
All of your accomplishments should be supported by concrete examples. In other words, mention all the data, numbers, and timescales. The less generic the information on your CV, the better.
19. Make use of tools available
Whether this is using LinkedIn for networking, Top CV for a free CV analysis or even just visiting the Career Hub to stay up to date with aviation insights, make use of them!
20. Take your document folder with you to interviews
Although the employer may already have a few documents that give them insight into your career, it will show more of your character if you are organised and can pull out any physical document necessary when asked a question. This helps you back up what you're saying / giving an example of, as well as shows the employer you are someone that is on top of the paperwork.
21. Follow up
After applying for a role / roles, if you haven't heard back within a few weeks, follow it up with an email or a phone call. Unless the employer has specifically said that job seekers won't hear back if unsucessful, it's alright to follow up.
22. Verify Your Email Again
Additionally, if you're emailing your CV, make sure the email is properly formal, double-check that your CV and cover letter are properly attached, and make sure your application is error-free.
23. Sending your CV via inventive means
You should think outside the box to catch the eye of a hiring manager for pilots or the HR division. Your CV will undoubtedly end up in a stack with hundreds of other CVs if you fold it and mail it to HR in a white envelope.
Put all of these tips into practise and apply for pilot jobs today.
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