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in radio communications being emphasized. On a
day to day basis, pilots are faced with many split-

second decisions that can affect the fate of everyone on
board. For example, by analysing a change in weather
conditions, they can then react accordingly via their
training and experience.

Interpersonal & sensitivity skills
Interpersonal skills also include eff ective communication
skills, whether it be a simple or complex message. Global skills

The importance of effective communication is of Working in the aviation industry will bring you into
particular importance due to the level of responsibility direct contact with different ethnic backgrounds from

of human life and the continual shift towards automated around the world, so global skills are essential. Having
procedures. Also known as ‘emotional intelligence,’ an awareness and understanding of diff erent cultural
interpersonal sensitivity is the ability to respect and being viewpoints and communicating respectfully will give

open to another person’s viewpoint. It has fast become you a significant competitive edge in the aviation job
one of the most important skills of the 21st century and market. Whilst flying as a First Officer in Greece, Marcus

is highly sought after in leadership positions. Lindblom tried to notify the ground crew that he required

5 tons of fuel by signalling with his whole hand (one

Teamwork skills finger for each ton required) with his palm facing forward.
Working as part of a team is a vital skill needed in However, in Greece, this is deemed as a rude gesture
most professions. Being a good team player requires which resulted in the ground handler denying his request
cooperation, patience, identifying common goals and and looking the other way. Fortunately, the Captain
working collaboratively towards them. When you’re had experienced this before and advised Lindblom

flying the skies, it’s vital that the whole team cooperate accordingly. This example just goes to show how essential

together to ensure a safe journey for everyone. global skills really are.
It’s also important to accept responsibility for your Flexibility skills
failings within a team setup. During fl ight training, For any business to grow, it needs to change and evolve.
students are actively encouraged to take responsibility for The future of aviation is expected to be turbulent with

their actions and decisions. a new wave of technological innovation and changes in
geopolitics. A report by Right Management found that
91% of hiring managers will only recruit on the candidate’s
The future of aviation is ability to deal with change and uncertainty.
expected to be turbulent with
a new wave of technological Time management skills
Time management skills are exceptionally important to
innovation and changes in airlines that are measured by their On-Time performance.
geopolitics. A report by Right Any delay caused to a flight is a waste of valuable resources

Management found that 91% and may cost the airline in fines. An airline that has a bad
reputation for always being delayed or causing passengers
of hiring managers will only to miss connecting flights may result in a loss of business

recruit on the candidate’s as passengers seek to fly with a more reliable airline.

ability to deal with change and Thus, time management skills in their workforce are of
paramount importance.
uncertainty.
Apart from the above skills you need to know if you are
meant for this career and is this your passion?
It’s not too late take up a psychometric assessment and
discover if you have the innate desire backed by aptitude
and Occupational Interest.

CAREER BEACON | Inaugural Issue | 2019 | 27