Common Pilot Interview Mistake #4

Trying to justify your actions, argue the unarguable or getting defensive!

If you have made a mistake, admit it! Show that you do accept responsibility for your actions. Don't try to argue your way of it in the interview by saying such things as you didn't know the rules, there were extenuating circumstances, everyone else was doing it, the FAA examiner was trying to get more money out of me, the instructor had it in for me, it was a speed trap, the dog ate my certificate, etc.

Yes, I have heard it all over the years!

Here are a few "bad examples" that will turn an interviewers stomach inside out.

Interviewers Question: Have you ever had a letter of warning or correction:

Applicants Answer: "Sure! Hasn't everyone with more than 6000 hours of flight time? My guess is that if someone says otherwise then they are hiding something. I mean, it is was no big deal and has since been removed."

IQ: Tell me about your ticket?

AA: "I received a speeding ticket last year because their was a speed trap. I was the only one pulled over!"

IQ: Have your ever failed a checkride and why?

AA: "The instructor failed me on an engine out procedure. I know I did everything right but I had a strong suspicion that he had it in for me regardless of how well I performed."

IQ: Have your ever been involved in any accidents or incidents?

AA: "The Captain is the one who was at the at the controls when our wing hit the fuel truck. I was doing the paperwork and he obviously wasn't paying attention. BUT, because I was the First Officer, they had to blame me too."

IQ: Have you had any written or verbal reprimands?

AA: "The new uniforms were so ugly! I hated the tie. I went to the store and found one that was in the same color family but looked so much more professional. I can't believe that my Chief Pilot wrote me a letter of reprimand for something so petty!"

The impression left on an interviewer would be of a person who is argumentative, plays the role of the victim in order to avoid critique, unwilling to accept responsibility, unwilling to improve, and only follows the rules when it fits his/her needs.

By Cheryl Cage (Checklist for Success-A Pilots Guide to a Successful Airline Interview) and Angie Marshall-Owners of Cage Marshall Consulting

For more information contact our office at www.cageconsulting.com or 720.222.1432