Networking

[BoDEAN]

Any tips or advice on networking? Are there any "guides" or stories out there on the web that you users know of? Trying to increase my "networking" connections, and since there has been a lot of discussions on here with reference to "networking" I thought we could elaborate on it.

 

[starvingcfi]

just talk to everyone. you'll be surprised where opportunities come from. the guy pulls up in the king air and gets out. say hi. the next guy rolling up in the champ. say hi. the guy in the king air might not speak to you. the guy in the champ could be the cheif pilot for a nearby charter op. you never know. trust me dude. line guys. desk people. everyone. it'll pay off eventually. good luck.

starvingcfi

 

[350DRIVER]

I do not think that there is an exact science or art on "how to" properly network. There have been some pretty good business books written on this topic and they really disect all the variables and what it takes to succeed in general. These books may answer some of your questions and allow you to learn more in detail about the "business" side of this industry. Although I do not know of any "aviation books" specifically written on this topic in general there are some good aviation reference books and web sites written on what it takes, what to expect, interview prep, etc, etc ,..... - Barnes and Noble as well as Border's has a pretty impressive collection of business books that do discuss this issue in depth. I am sure there are other book stores and web sites that may interest you.

I try to meet "people of interest" within the industry when I am out on trips, layovers, etc, and will usually attempt to get their business cards as well whenever the opportunity presents itself ( if I think it could possibly help me down the road at some point) since you never know when you will need to call on someone for a favor or for "help" in "attempting" to obtain a job.- Or you may even need to ask for advice. On the flip side of the coin I try to cooperate when someone asks me for help or something else along those lines, kind of a two way street.


Try and talk to different pilots, leave a good impression and you just may catch someone's eye in the process.

good luck

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[bobbysamd]

Aviation organizations

Aviation organizations are a rich source of networking opportunities. Join your local pilot association. These primarily consist of private pilots, but the idea is to meet people who know people who know people, ad infinitum. Join Civil Air Patrol. Same idea, but CAP often has professional pilots in its midst.

I would get my CFI if I were you. Aside from its value as a credential, instructing is a great way to meet other pilots. Go to FAA WINGS seminars and promote your services. Make business cards and pass them out to everyone and encourage people to keep you in mind.

Hope these ideas help.