Ever wondered what it’s like to be on the other side of the recruitment desk at a major pilot expo? Well, hold onto your flight helmets because today, I’m lifting the veil on my recent experience as a guest recruiter at THE PILOT NETWORK EXPO 2024. Buckle up, folks; it’s going to be a whirlwind adventure!
Setting the Stage: The InterContinental Hotel at KMSP
First off, let me give a shoutout to Matt and Adam for orchestrating an outstanding event at the InterContinental Hotel in Minneapolis. The location couldn’t have been more perfect, making it a breeze for attendees to fly in, stay, and immerse themselves in the expo without the hassle of taxis, Ubers, or rental cars. Kudos to the team for picking such a pilot-friendly venue!
Family Affair: The Magic of TPN
One of the highlights for me was seeing the strong sense of community and family that TPN fosters. It was heartwarming to witness so many pilots accompanied by their families during the evening socials and booth tours. Being an Airline Transport Pilot truly is a family affair, and TPN goes above and beyond to welcome families at no extra charge. Once again, kudos to TPN for creating an inclusive environment that celebrates the entire aviation community!
Insider Tips from a Guest Recruiter:
Alright, aspiring pilots and seasoned aviators alike, let’s get down to business. Here are some invaluable insights from the other side of the recruitment desk:
Come Prepared with a Resume
I cannot stress this enough – BRING A RESUME! It’s your golden ticket to making a lasting impression. Even if you forget, we’ll still jot down your details, but having a resume on hand shows that you’re serious about your career. Trust me; it’s worth the extra effort.
Explore Every Booth
Don’t just stick to the big airline names; explore all the opportunities on offer. You’d be amazed at the diverse range of companies, both Part 121 and beyond, that are looking for talent. Keep an open mind and seize every opportunity to network.
Nail Your Elevator Pitch
Prepare a compelling 3-minute elevator pitch that highlights your strengths, achievements, and what sets you apart from the crowd. Be genuine, be memorable, and don’t shy away from discussing any challenges you’ve faced. Honesty goes a long way in building trust.
Keep Building Hours and Currency
The aviation industry can be unpredictable, so keep building those flight hours and staying current. If you’re looking for creative ways to log flight time, consider flying animal rescue missions with Pilots N Paws. It’s a win-win – you get to build hours while making a difference, and your expenses are tax-deductible!
Relax and Enjoy the Experience
Recruitment events can be nerve-wracking, but try to relax and enjoy the experience. Remember, recruiters are not just evaluating your aviation skills; they’re also assessing your interpersonal skills and ability to handle stress. So, take a deep breath, smile, and let your personality shine through.
Most Asked Question! What’s in My Flight Bag?
Before I sign off, I thought I’d answer the the question of “What’s In My Flight Bag?” with a few essentials that make life on the road a little easier:
1. Dude Wipes: Hygiene matters, folks! #ad https://amzn.to/3WcIDQc
2. Portable USB Charger: Never run out of juice #ad https://amzn.to/4a0ntIA
3. Watch Charger: Time waits for no one #ad https://amzn.to/3xZ3tsc
4. Comfortable Shoes: Your feet will thank you #ad https://amzn.to/4b86UeD
5. Reversible Belt: Two belts in one #ad https://amzn.to/4bbADTO
6. Pant/Short Combo: Versatility is key. #ad https://amzn.to/4dfHcXA
7. Swiss Gear Backpack: Durable & spacious #ad https://amzn.to/3WdmGAu
8. Apple Tags: Never lose your headset again. #ad https://amzn.to/44dpeAM
And there you have it, folks – a glimpse into the world of a pilot recruiter from the other side of the desk. I hope these insights and tips prove valuable for your next expo or networking event. Until next time, safe skies and happy networking! 🛫👨✈️👩✈️
For those of you interested, check out some of our Pilots N Paws rescues!
Check out our other rescue flights!
