Crafting a compelling resume is a critical aspect of any job search, especially in the competitive field of business aviation. A well-written resume can unlock opportunities, while a poorly constructed one can quickly close doors. In aviation, certain key elements are essential for getting noticed, which is the first step toward securing an interview and, ultimately, employment.
There is no single “magic” resume that guarantees success. Over the years, I’ve reviewed countless resumes from pilots and flight attendants, ranging from lengthy multi-page documents to brief, two-paragraph summaries. For a private flight attendant, a concise, one-page resume is generally preferred within the industry.
**Essential Elements for Your Resume:**
The top section of your resume should include the following, clearly centered for easy readability, using white or off-white paper and avoiding fancy fonts or loud colors. Simplicity and professionalism are key in the conservative field of business aviation.
1. Your Full Name
2. Complete Address: Include house/apartment number, street, city, state, zip code, and country (if applying internationally).
3. Home Phone Number
4. Cell Phone Number (or a secondary number)
5. Professional Email Address
**Objective Statement: To Include or Not To Include?**
The inclusion of an objective statement is a matter of debate. Some HR professionals advocate for it, while others don’t. If you choose to include one, craft a strong, positive statement that highlights your career and job objectives, focusing on your strengths and the value you can bring to a potential employer. Use clear, concise language. An effective objective can set a positive tone for the entire resume. However, omitting it might be preferable if you’re applying for diverse positions. Always emphasize what you can contribute to the company, rather than what you hope to gain from it.
**Work History:**
Following the objective (or directly after your contact information), present your work history. If you have extensive experience, consider limiting it to the last ten years. Remember, a resume is not an exhaustive job history but a summary of your qualifications and contributions. Save the detailed specifics for the application form. This is particularly relevant if you’re over 40, as age discrimination, though often illegal, can occur subtly. Your goal is to secure the interview first and then impress the employer with your skills and experience.
**Training and Education:**
After your work history, list your relevant training and education. If you’ve completed programs like FACTS, Alteon, or FlightSafety, spell out the full names. Include training locations, dates, and a brief overview of the curriculum. For example: “Emergency egress training, emergency medical procedures, food safety and culinary arts, wine service.” Avoid lengthy paragraphs, but provide sufficient detail about the skills acquired during your training. Include any other relevant training, such as food service courses, wine certifications, or language training. This section can also be titled “Education” to encompass college degrees and other post-high school qualifications.
**References:**
Avoid including references directly on your resume. Instead, conclude with a simple statement: “References furnished upon request.” Ensure you have at least three prepared references who are aware that you’re using them and ready to provide positive feedback.
**Hobbies and Personal Information:**
Including details about your hobbies is generally discouraged. While some believe it showcases a well-rounded personality, it’s best to save these details for the interview. In most U.S. states, disclosing marital status, age, height, and weight is illegal. However, when applying for international positions, companies may request this information, along with full-length photos and headshots. While some may object to this practice, it’s essential to respect local laws and customs when working internationally. If you’re uncomfortable with these requirements, consider not applying.
**Key Resume Tips:**
The University at Buffalo School of Management offers valuable advice on resume writing:
**Do:**
* Aim for a one-page resume.
* Use appropriate margins (0.5 – 1 inch).
* Use positive action verbs to highlight your skills.
* Use present tense for current activities and past tense for previous experiences.
* Place important items in prominent areas.
* Proofread meticulously for errors.
* Ensure your resume is neatly typed and flawless.
* Be honest and accurate.
* Maintain a positive tone.
**Don’t:**
* Write “RESUME” at the top.
* Use “I,” “Me,” or abbreviations.
* Date the resume, attach advertisements, or list salary requirements.
* Omit volunteer or relevant experiences.
* Provide false information.
* Include reasons for changing jobs.
Seek feedback from others and be receptive to their suggestions. Rigidity in your resume may be perceived as inflexibility, which is undesirable in this industry. Remember, while there’s no universal template, your resume should accurately reflect your qualifications and what you can offer the company.