Hi Phfelix,
Don't despair...I am a CSD. I worked through the strikes. As Ottergirl has said, would you want to socialise with ignorant people anyway?
The majority of crew I have flown with since this sorry debacle have continued to be professional and respectful. Remember this is your job NOT your life so don't let it have any impact on that.
You are entitled to an opinion, as is everyone else, and people have to respect that. Keep smiling, work hard and be proud of yourself.
As you pointed out, BA crew have a comfortable life. We are well renumerated compared to other carriers.
We do however have restricting, antiquated working practices compared to our competitors. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed these for many years (and with the new proposal will continue to do so!!) however I also do realise that we as a community need to change. We need to become more flexible. We need to engage with the company to find mutually beneficial 'tweaks' that will offer us a win-win to our customers, BA and crew.
For many years, we have been in a situation whereby previous weak BA management have created an environment where the union have had the power. This must change. I firmly believe that BA are not out to bust the Union. Come on, the LT can't negotiate with 12,000 crew. They need a representing body to engage with. What I do believe is that BA are determined to shift the power from the Union back to them. Why should the Union have the final say on things like product enhancements? Our competitors are just laughing at us as they invest in their products and sail right past!!
Unfortunately, alot of crew can't see furthur than the end of their noses and appreciate the bigger picture...the big world outside. And that big world is ugly!! I recount stories to my non-flying friends (hot towels, window blinds) and they laugh...out loud... then stare at me in disbelief!!
On a final note, has anyone been watching the TV programme 'The Savoy'? A world class. premium brand and delivering consistently excellent service. Its strict but the staff are motivated, love their jobs and constantly strive to go the extra mile! The managers are constantly giving direct developmental feedback yet this doesn't impact on working relationships...it actually builds respect....something I feel our community lacks sometimes.
Happy New Year