7 Ways to Make the Most of a Job as a Flight Attendant

Becoming a flight attendant is an excellent way to combine your love of travel with your desire for a job that offers flexible and peak-season-friendly hours. Working as a flight attendant also has the added benefit of being one of the few jobs in which you get to see the world while also getting paid to do it! This exciting, fast-paced role comes with its fair share of challenges, however. 

There are strict prerequisites regarding age, weight, height, and education; training lasts up to five weeks and takes place once or twice per month, and keeping track of peak travel periods is essential for securing work at different airlines. However, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort, becoming a flight attendant can be a rewarding career move. Here are some helpful tips on how to make the most of a job as a flight attendant:

Research the Companies You’re Interested In

When you’re researching the companies you’re interested in working for, keep an eye out for the following: 

• How long has the company been in business? 
• What is the company culture like? 
• What percentage of the company’s workforce is made up of flight attendants? 
• What is the average yearly salary for this position?
• What is the hiring process like? 

A thorough research of the companies you’re interested in working for should help you to identify which airlines offer the best growth opportunities. It will also give you an idea of how competitive the process is.

Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events

Job fairs and networking events are great ways to meet potential employers and get your name out there. You never know who might be interested in hiring you as a flight attendant! By attending these events, you’re also helping to create a more positive brand image for yourself. 

People may have preconceived notions regarding flight attendants, but these events are a great way to showcase the many skills and talents you bring to the table. These events are especially helpful if you’re looking to work for a smaller airline. In this case, networking is the best way to get your resume in front of the right people.

Check Out Flight Attendant Recruitment Agencies

Flight attendant recruitment agencies can be a good option if you’re struggling to get your foot in the door. While agencies will charge you a fee, they are useful for getting your name out there. Once your resume is submitted to the agency, it is sent out to airlines, and you might even be contacted directly by a recruiter. 

This is especially helpful for those who may not have enough experience for the airlines they are interested in working for. However, be sure to do your research before signing up with an agency. Some agencies may be legitimate, but others may be less legitimate and more focused on taking advantage of inexperienced flight attendants.

Lay the Foundation For Your Career as a Flight Attendant

Before becoming a flight attendant, you’ll want to make sure you meet all the prerequisites. For example, you must be at least 21 years old, not weigh more than 250 pounds, and hold a high school diploma. However, becoming a flight attendant at a younger age is certainly possible. If you’re under 21 years old, there are a few ways you can get ready for this career, such as: 

• Taking a course in aviation studies, such as aviation management, aviation administration, or aviation technology. 
• Earning a degree in business administration or hospitality management. 
• Earning a degree in travel and tourism. 
• Earning an associate’s degree in air traffic control or aviation maintenance.

Commit to Fitness and Nutrition

Regardless of the profession you choose, staying fit and healthy will help you to meet the physical demands of the job and avoid missing out on important opportunities as a result of your physical condition. It will also help to set you apart from your peers on a personal level. 

• Stay active and engage in regular exercise. 
• Eat healthily.
• Stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, especially the flu shot.
• Get plenty of rest. 
• Avoid using any substances, such as tobacco or drugs, that could hinder your ability to achieve your goals in this career. 
• Be prepared for an assessment as part of the hiring process, which may include a medical exam, drug test, and/or fitness assessment. 
• Be prepared to pass a pre-employment polygraph test. 
• Be prepared to discuss your hobbies and interests, and how they relate to this career.

Find the Right Travel Accessories

Before starting your career as a flight attendant, it’s a good idea to get a head start on building a travel wardrobe. You’ll want to have as many pieces as possible that are both comfortable and versatile. 

• Comfortable shoes with good arch support will come in handy on long flights. 
• Lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen, will help to keep you cool and comfortable. 
• Accessories, such as scarves and hats, will help to add a bit of style to your uniform.
• For friends and family, consider getting them some gear from a pilot shop as well

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is an important step in laying the foundation for a successful career as a flight attendant. It can be a stressful job, so it’s important to stay mentally fit and ready to handle whatever the job throws your way. 

• Get involved in activities and hobbies that help you to de-stress and decompress, such as yoga, journaling, or meditation. 
• Identify your triggers and build a healthy way to cope with them.
• Keep an eye on your overall mental health with regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Conclusion

The job of a flight attendant is exciting, fast-paced, and can take you to new parts of the world. While working as an airline attendant can be rewarding, it is also demanding. To make the most of a flight attendant position, be sure to research the airlines that you are interested in working for, network at job fairs, and attend flight attendant recruitment agencies. Also, be sure to commit to fitness and nutrition, take care of your mental health, and find the right travel accessories. These helpful tips will guide you on how to make the most of a job as a flight attendant. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start your journey as an airline crew member!