SAA bashing (again)
Over the years there have in fact been some with serious "connections" who never got in! Why? Because they never met all the requirements or were found unsuitable.
Likewise, there have been some with connections who would have got in anyway - regardless of their connections. Why? Because they met all the requirements and were found suitable.
There is no mystery involved. Selection is a points based system for qualifications and experience - with psychometrics and an interview to determine suitability.
The only advantage you'd have with "connections" is a reference in the airline who can vouch for you. But even then, the selection board makes up their own mind.
Obviously there is pressure from management to take certain individuals, but the one time where management forced our hand, it ended up in the guy failing his conversion with a lengthy and very acrimonious departure from the airline! Not good for anyone. Nowdays when the selection board says an individual isn't suitable, management generally doesn't interfere.
I'm sure they don't want a repeat of that little episode!
Last edited by congoman; 30th Jan 2011 at 17:47.