"Interview Lunch"

[Throttlebender]

Hey guys. I posted a few months ago about a possible GIV/GV job that might come around in a year or so. Well the chief pilot and I have been playing phone tag for a while. Looks like we're going to meet on Thursday for lunch. It will just be to catch up and maybe get a jump on what I need to be doing in the meantime.

Anyway, I'm about to start flying an AC90 single pilot for my present employer, but am mainly a piston pilot. So, I won't know much about corp jets if he asks. I'm thinking it will be more of a personality and basic aviation knowledge evaluation. If you were me what would you focus on to make the best impression? I know I need to stay relaxed and be myself, but beyond that what do you think?

Also, we're just gonna grab a bite to eat somewhere. Should I dress truly casual or pimp it up a little. Trying to find the balance. I know I'm sounding a bit like a spaz but it's really important to me.

Thanks

 

[CL600Pilot]

Do you have any idea how the Chief Pilot dresses on a normal basis? Does he seem like a formal type that wears a shirt and tie to the office? I don't know that I'd be dusting off the interview suit but at least put a pair decent pants on and a nice button down shirt.

Just be yourself and show a positive attitude. It doesn't matter that you don't really know anything about corporate jets - while you do need a requisite amount of experience Flight Safety can teach you how to fly a GIV - that's what they do. Most good Chief Pilots understand that it's way more important to find someone that will "fit" in with their organization than has a particular piece of paper(type rating) in their wallet. Don't worry about it - answer his questions honestly - let him know you're grateful for him taking the time to meet with you - and past that don't worry about doing too much to prepare.

CL

PS - oh yeah, chew with your mouth closed!

 

[G100driver]

Hey guys. I posted a few months ago about a possible GIG/GV job that might come around in a year or so. Well the chief pilot and I have been playing phone tag for a while. Looks like we're going to meet on Thursday for lunch. It will just be to catch up and maybe get a jump on what I need to be doing in the meantime.

Anyway, I'm about to start flying an AC90 single pilot for my present employer, but am mainly a piston pilot. So, I won't know much about corp jets if he asks. I'm thinking it will be more of a personality and basic aviation knowledge evaluation. If you were me what would you focus on to make the best impression? I know I need to stay relaxed and be myself, but beyond that what do you think?

Also, we're just gonna grab a bite to eat somewhere. Should I dress truly casual or pimp it up a little. Trying to find the balance. I know I'm sounding a bit like a spaz but it's really important to me.

Thanks

Pimp it up a little. He will know that you a serious. I would not worry about the corp jet stuff. Better to show that you want to learn and have a good attitude about what you are doing than try and blow smoke us his a$$ about what you think you know. If you have been been flying navajo's and you try and talk up crossing the Atlantic you will look like a fool.

It would not hurt, however, to read up on the G's and have some basic knowledge of the equiptment that you might be flying. I would suggest B/CA or pro-pilot write ups on the all the G-'s.

Good luck. It sounds like you have a great opprotunity.

PS

I was in the same situation 5 years ago, only with less time. I put on a suit and tie to interview with my friend who was then the chief pilot. Never take anything for granted, you will never lose being a constant professional. 4 type ratings later I am now a lead pilot for a Falcon 2000EX finally making industry pay.

 

[Flat Spot]

Hey guys. I posted a few months ago about a possible GIV/GV job that might come around in a year or so. Well the chief pilot and I have been playing phone tag for a while. Looks like we're going to meet on Thursday for lunch. It will just be to catch up and maybe get a jump on what I need to be doing in the meantime.

Anyway, I'm about to start flying an AC90 single pilot for my present employer, but am mainly a piston pilot. So, I won't know much about corp jets if he asks. I'm thinking it will be more of a personality and basic aviation knowledge evaluation. If you were me what would you focus on to make the best impression? I know I need to stay relaxed and be myself, but beyond that what do you think?

Also, we're just gonna grab a bite to eat somewhere. Should I dress truly casual or pimp it up a little. Trying to find the balance. I know I'm sounding a bit like a spaz but it's really important to me.

Thanks

Let him lead the conversation, answer any questions he askes honestly and sell yourself as someone who would be a joy to fly with on a multi day trip (can carry on a conversation, hard worker, not a smart A$$ etc).
I don't think you could go wrong with a nice suite (navy,black or dark grey) a pressed white shirt and a red tie or something suitable (not to loud). If you need to you can always loose the jacket or tie (better than not having them and wishing you did). SHINE YOUR SHOES!!! You only get 1 chance to make that important first impression.

Good Luck. Let us know how it goes.