Honesty (or not) at interviews

[Northern Highflyer]

As we all know, the majority of us wannabes are aiming for the shiny jet job one day, but we are all aware that we may have to realistically start on Turboprops (which I don't think is a bad thing).

So let's assume you have got to the interview stage and you are asked the question, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years' time?"

How would you answer this ?

Would you tell them that you want to move onto jets one day, or would you say you will be happy staying on turbos and try to work your way to Captain just to get the job ?

For those that have already been down this route (if any read this forum), did any of the above answers have an influence on the outcome that you are aware of ?

For those who recruit, if someone said they wanted to move to jets, would you see them as someone not committed to your airline and not offer them the job, or would you see someone who wanted to stay on turbos as not ambitious enough ?

Just trying to get a heads up on what happens out there. :ok:

[redsnail]

I laughed and said not one of my 5 year projections have been accurate.
You could say that you could see yourself getting command and hopefully becoming a training captain "so you can give something back" and if the opportunity arises fly jets. Explain that you intend to stay for a few years at least. I have found that I haven't missed jobs because I expressed a desire to fly jets. Most recruiters are savvy enough to know that that's where most pilots want to go.

Usually, most companies expect you to stay for about 3 years. That should be enough time to recoup the money spent and make some money out of you. (assuming you haven't bought a rating etc. If you have, then they haven't spent much money on you at all. {turboprops esp})

[fly-half]

I'm trying to figure out how to reply to that question in an upcoming interview with a small airline. I would love to play my art in helping them create a successful and safe business but the reality is that jets fly higher and faster and farther than turbo-props and it is at the frontier of modern technology in aviation. It would be silly to say I don't want to play a part in that side of things too.

I will saY I see myself developing a career with them for many years, however eventually, sayin 8 - 10 years time, I would like to be flying jets. Who is to say that, as a small company they can offer me a long career? No one can predict the future of small turbo-prop operators. They may fold after a few years or they may do so well they introduce jets into the fleet.

I can guarantee that I will work very hard for many years if they decide to invest in me.

[Northern Highflyer]

Thanks for the replies.

Personally I would be honest and say that I would like to fly a jet at some point, but I think turboprop flying can have many benefits, especially the more hands-on type of flying involved.

I would be happy to stay with a t/p outfit for a few years to learn my trade and gain that essential experience before moving on. From what I have gleaned so far, flying t/p can be great fun and something I would like to do. 3 years seems about right, but with such a fluctuating market I would like to keep all my options open.

[TFMonty]

i think the point about employers knowing the market is the most accurate here.................as most will realise that they are a route to jet life. hence the salary and deals to match.

i would not be afraid of stating this as it reflects better than 'i wnat to be with u for life' which i imagine would attract a few chcukles after an interview is finsihed.

[GJB]

I was asked this question recently, albeit for an non-aviation job.

It is an HR question designed to explore you life ambitions too and not just your career ambitions.

Remember what they asked:
"Where do you see yourself in 5 years"
- no mention of flying or aeroplanes whatsoever.

From the above, you have all fallen into the trap of speaking 100% about this job and company. Given that this type of company is commonly used as a stepping stone, they want to see how honest or realistic you are. Unless you are totally committed to flying puddle jumpers all your life, you shouldn't go near jets etc until you are specifically asked about your career ambitions.

There is absolutely no harm on touching on aviation in your answer, just don't focus on asnwering entirely on the subject.

example:

"Career wise, I'd like to be a SFO or perhaps even a Captain. I'll possibly be married and starting a family, so I'll be hoping to buy a newer or bigger house. Hopefully my golf handicap will be below 37 by then too"

I f*cked up my answer for the interview I attended as I have no intention of staying in this line of work any longer than is absolutely necessary and it showed

:ugh: