Ask an Aviation Recruiter: Your Questions Answered October Edition
- hollybirmingham
- 13 hours ago
- 5 min read
Featuring Abigail Reid, Recruitment Resourcer
The aviation industry is full of opportunity, though navigating its job market isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just beginning your aviation journey, understanding what recruiters look for can make all the difference.
In this latest edition of “Ask an Aviation Recruiter,” we’re continuing our mission to share transparent insights and expert advice to help you build a rewarding and successful aviation career.
This month, we sat down with Abi, one of our aviation recruiters here at AeroProfessional, to answer some of the most common questions we receive from candidates about how to stand out, prepare, and succeed in the recruitment process.
What actually happens behind the scenes once I apply for a role?
Every aviation recruitment journey is different, and so is the process. It can be more complex than other industries due to specific requirements, regulations, training, assessments, and more. However, like most recruitment journeys, it’s always tailored to the role on offer, as well as the client. We follow a structured process to keep things moving in the right direction, benefiting candidates and clients alike.
After hitting ‘submit’ on your application, the work is handed to us, and we don’t waste a minute. Our recruitment team reviews your application: CV, cover letter, documents, and more, ensuring it meets the basic requirements of the role.
A common misconception is that your application is ruled out if you don’t meet every single requirement. But that’s not always true. If you meet the majority, and the rest of your application makes a good impression, you might still have a chance.
The next stage is a no-obligation phone call. We’ll reach out to discuss your application. This is our opportunity to learn more about you, why you want the role, and to assess how well you align with the client’s expectations. It’s also your chance to make a great impression. The attitude you bring to your recruiter is just as important as the professionalism you’d show to our client.
If the recruitment team determines good suitability after the call, we’ll request any additional documents, if required, and move forward with pitching you to our client. This pitch includes showcasing your application, authenticating your documents, discussing availability, and highlighting the positives from your interview.
From there, the process can vary depending on the airline or recruitment setup. For example, for pilots, some airlines combine the SIM and interview on the same day, while others may run the SIM first. However, in most cases, the interview takes place first.
If you’re invited, we’ll contact you to arrange the interview and offer our advice and guidance ahead of the big day. Not all candidates will reach the interview stage, but the journey doesn’t end there. We’ll continue proactively finding you another suitable role, as well as providing our support along the way.
Need guidance on how to prepare for an upcoming interview? Discover our Ace Your Virtual Interview: Expert Tips for Aviation Job Seekers article.
Our recruitment team works closely with each client, just as we do with every candidate. After your interview, we actively seek feedback and outcomes from the client. From there, we’ll be straight back in touch with you to explain next steps.
The process becomes more fine-tuned for the role or client after this stage. The next steps could be a SIM or assessment day. Pass these, and you’ll likely receive an offer, and we’ll call you to deliver the good news as soon as we have it.
Our support doesn’t stop at the offer stage. We’ll continue to provide guidance throughout your entire recruitment journey, helping you prepare for your first day and checking in afterwards to ensure you’re happy in your new role.
These processes can be lengthy, but that’s why we’re here: to offer expert advice, follow a clear path, and connect talent with incredible opportunities in aviation.
How should I format my CV for different types of aviation jobs?
Tailoring your CV to each role is a crucial step in your application process. The skills that may be relevant for one position, might not be for another, so it’s important to lead with the right focus.
If you’re seeking a customer-facing role, such as cabin crew or airport staff, highlight your soft skills, including communication, organisation, and time management, to create a strong first impression.
Explore the The soft skills you need to succeed in aviation.
If you’re pursuing a more technical career, such as a pilot or engineer, this approach might not have the same impact. Instead, lead with your flight hours, type-ratings, or licences.
By formatting your CV to showcase your strongest and most relevant skills first, you’re far more likely to capture a recruiter’s attention.
On some occasions, we review hundreds of CVs per role, so having a clearly presented CV that demonstrates you meet the requirements and have a genuine passion for aviation will help you stand out as a top candidate.
Can I ask for feedback if I’m not selected for a role?
A positive outcome isn’t always guaranteed, the aviation talent pool is competitive. But this shouldn’t deter you. Accept the decline with pride, learn from feedback, and keep going.
After every interview with one of our clients, regardless of the outcome, we hold a meeting to discuss its success. This gives us the opportunity to directly request feedback.
We then reach out to you to deliver the outcome, share client feedback, and provide our own support.
If unsuccessful, we don’t stop there, we’ll provide advice and actively seek alternative roles that could be a better fit.
It's not the end if you are not selected, we’re on this journey with you, and our aim is to help you reach your career goals.
If you’ve not yet reached an interview stage and are actively seeking your next aviation role, be sure to register with us so we can provide the same proactive support.
Conclusion
Finding your next role in aviation can sometimes feel like navigating through turbulence, but having the right insights can make all the difference. With our recruiter advice and answers to your questions, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your career path with clarity and confidence.
Remember, we’re here to help you take off toward the opportunities that fit your skills and ambitions.
If you’ve got more questions or need extra guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out through our contact page. And be sure to keep an eye out for the next instalment of ‘Ask an Aviation Recruiter: Your Questions Answered’ coming soon.
