Networking In Aerospace

Someone said "You should teach a transition class at events like these" while at the Air & Space Forces Association annual event in DC yesterday I explained that I have done that before...but attendance at these major events typically fell into 2x buckets: 1 - many of the senior leaders attending weren't even thinking about their transition, so they focused on talking with friends, attending events & industry engagement 2 - the ones in their transition window were hell-bent focused on "finding a job" by going to pitch themselves to every major defense contractor in attendance #quinnsights Going to these booths and saying "I'm the ...." doesn't tell them anything about what you want or can do Companies don't come to these major events to hire (they come to sell and form partnerships) And that events like these (AFA & AUSA) don't typically "get you a job" They give you an entry point (someone to speak to & maybe build a relationship) #militarytransition But the key to every event is FOLLOW UP What should you do? 1 - connect with them on LinkedIn every time Show them your QR code right there and wait for their connection request to come through (sneaky way to ensure they do) 2 - Go into My Network each night and look at your newest connections They are organized chronologically, so they will all be people from the event 3 - Send them a quick note on LinkedIn saying how great it was to meet them at (insert event name) and that you would love to stay in touch for advice This locks in that you met face-to-face in their Inbox...always leaving a reminder there in case either side reaches out (not a cold pitch) 4 - Make a networking spreadsheet that tracks the people you met AND who responded For the ones that responded, asked some simple questions or for a short advice phone call, if appropriate For the ones that didn't - send an additional follow up message one week later to thank them again and add a short easy question (they'll be back from the event & likely have more time) #militarytransition Once you get to the calls, ask questions to learn and listen more than talk to find your success Questions? Is there anything you would add? And will I see you at the AUSA Fireside Chat/Transition Panel on Tuesday Oct 15 from 1300-1500 in Rm 147A/B in the Washington Convention Center?

Industry downturns create challenging hiring environments, but they also present opportunities for professionals who approach their search strategically rather than reactively.   When aerospace hiring slows, successful candidates differentiate themselves through targeted positioning:   Specialized Value Proposition: Rather than presenting general aerospace experience, successful candidates identify specific industry pain points and position themselves as solutions to those challenges.   Growth Intersection Strategy: While traditional aerospace may be slow, adjacent growth areas like commercial space, defense technology, and sustainable aviation continue expanding. Strategic candidates position themselves at these intersections.   Direct Relationship Building: Bypassing traditional application channels in favor of direct engagement with hiring managers and industry leaders often yields better results in slow markets.   Industry Network Activation: Aerospace remains a relationship-driven industry where referrals and internal recommendations carry significant weight during selective hiring periods.   Slow markets reward patience and strategic thinking over application volume. Companies become more selective but also more willing to wait for candidates who clearly demonstrate specialized value.   For aerospace professionals, this environment favors those who can articulate specific problem-solving capabilities rather than generic industry experience.   What strategies have you found effective for maintaining career momentum during industry downturns?   Sign up to my newsletter for more corporate insights and truths here: https://lnkd.in/ei_uQjju   #deepalivyas #eliterecruiter #recruiter #recruitment #jobsearch #corporate #aerospace #strategicjobsearch #industrynetworking #careerstrategist

Starting out as a young aerospace engineering professional, one major lesson I quickly learned was that technical knowledge alone would not make me stand out in the industry. Yes, I am one of the few women in Aerospace Engineering here in Nigeria. But I believe I need much more than that to stand out and excel in this highly competitive industry. Being technically sound is just a piece of the puzzle. To be successful, you need a variety of additional skills in your toolbox. For me, what has always worked has been — Strategic Networking ‼️ A few weeks ago, I came across a post by Miguel Cabrera Vivas on the importance of networking for aviation professionals. And what struck me the most was how much impact I have had with the right network — ✈ My Aircraft Maintenance Internship ✈ An Aircraft Maintenance Graduate Training ✈ My first International Aviation Writing role ✈ Over $1K worth Aerospace and Aviation Courses ✈ Professional Career Mentorships from accomplished International Professionals And so much more... By now you're probably wondering how best to network here on LinkedIn. And here are the tips that have helped me: ✈ Be genuine and always offer value when connecting with others. ✈ Engage consistently with industry-related content to stay visible and relevant. ✈ Follow up with new connections and continue nurturing relationships over time. ✈ Share your insights and experiences to contribute to conversations in your field. ✈ Attend virtual and physical events to expand your network and industry knowledge. Dearest AeroLovelies, Being connected to the right people at specific periods in my career has given me so many opportunities that has 3X my career development. What networking strategies have worked for you? Share in the comments below. #aerospace #strategicnetworking #mentorshipmonday #theairplanegirl

🚀 Breaking into the Airline/Aviation Industry: Top Tips for Early Career Professionals ✈️ Are you passionate about the skies and dreaming of a career in the airline/aviation industry? Here are some top tips to help you get started: ✈️❤️Craft a Comprehensive CV: Your CV is your first impression. Make sure it highlights your passion for aviation and clearly explains why you want to join the industry. Include any relevant experience, even if it's from related fields like broader transport sectors. Show your enthusiasm and dedication to the field. ✈️❤️Leverage Similar Industries: If you're finding it challenging to break directly into aviation, consider starting in related industries such as logistics, transportation, or even tech roles that support aviation. These sectors often have transferable skills and can be a stepping stone into your dream job. ✈️❤️Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects your interest in aviation. Use a professional photo, write a compelling headline, and include keywords related to aviation. Engage with industry content and join relevant groups to expand your network. ✈️❤️Network, Network, Network: Attend industry events, webinars, and networking sessions. Engage with hiring managers and recruiters by showing genuine interest and asking insightful questions. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised. ✈️❤️Do Your Research: Before attending networking events or interviews, research the company and the industry. Understand the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in aviation. This will not only show your interest but also help you have meaningful conversations with industry professionals. ✈️❤️Showcase Your Skills and Knowledge: Whether it's through LinkedIn posts, articles, or during interviews, demonstrate your understanding of the industry. ✈️❤️Share your thoughts on recent developments, your vision for the future of aviation, and how you can contribute to the industry. Remember, breaking into the aviation industry takes time and persistence. Stay passionate, keep learning, and seize every opportunity to connect with industry professionals. Your dream career is just a few steps away! 🌟 #AviationCareer #AirlineIndustry #CareerTips #Networking #JobSearch #AviationPassion

Why Every Aspiring Aviator Should Be Active on LinkedIn Let me tell you something that many young people in aviation overlook — having a solid LinkedIn profile can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make for your career. You see, things have changed. Gone are the days when people relied only on submitting CVs through email or carrying brown envelopes from office to office. These days, recruiters and professionals in aviation are online, especially on LinkedIn. That’s where they search for talents. That’s where they check to see how serious you are about your career. That’s where first impressions are made — even before they read your CV. As someone who has walked this road, I can tell you I’ve connected with dispatchers, cabin crew, pilots, engineers, of aviation companies from different parts of the world. People share job opportunities, scholarships, mentorship offers, aviation news, and events that you may never see on Instagram or Facebook. When you have a professional LinkedIn profile, you’re telling the world, “I’m here, I’m ready, and I take my career seriously.” It doesn’t matter if you’re still in training or you’ve not gotten your first job yet. In fact, that’s the best time to start. Build your page, write a simple bio that reflects your aviation dream, and connect with people who are already doing what you want to do. Like their posts, share your journey, and stay visible. I’ve seen people get internships, OJT placements, full-time jobs, and even international opportunities just because they had a LinkedIn profile that spoke well for them. Even some captains and flight dispatchers that inspire you are active there. That one comment you make or that one connection you build can change your life. If you’re in aviation and you're not yet on LinkedIn, or you’re on it but you’ve left it empty or inactive, please go back today and fix it. Use a professional photo, write your name clearly, state your aviation field (pilot, dispatcher, cabin crew, engineer, etc), and share your journey. Post about your training, your challenges, your achievements — no matter how small. Let people see you and know you. This industry is about connections, information, and timing. LinkedIn gives you access to all three. So I’m saying this from experience — build your presence, not just your license. Opportunities will meet you faster when you're visible in the right space. I hope this helps someone out there. #TochiAviation #AviationOpportunities #LinkedInTips #AviationNigeria #FlightDispatcherTalk #CabinCrewLife #PilotDreams #MentorInAviation #AviationIsCalling

Awesome Friday afternoon with Year Up United at Microsoft discussing how to use AI in the job search spanning networking, resume building and interview prep with Sophia Shelton, Carmen M., Luis Luciano, Mike Staten, Robert Hinshaw, and Stephen Giscombe. Some killer tips from the panel: Resume Customization: One of the panelists used ChatGPT to tailor his resume for a specific role at Boeing, integrating LinkedIn information from his profile, recent news at Boeing, highlighting relevant #aerospace experience and context from the job description. The hiring manager later told him that his resume "perfectly matched" what they were looking for. Research for Networking: Another panelist researched the backgrounds of key managers at the company, figured out the org tree and key decision makers for the hiring decision using AI. This enabled him to network into the company, set himself up for an interview and then meaningfully connect with each interviewer about their projects and interests. He used Copilot to draft targeted emails/cover letters that combined his LinkedIn experience with the company's recent initiatives or news to drive urgency. Interview Preparation: GenAI and Microsoft Copilot are amazing brainstorming and thought partners for interviews. Feed #AI context about the job you are interviewing for, the company you are interviewing at, the people you are interviewing with and what successful answers could look like. AI is great at simulating likely questions and refine answers for the actual interview, especially for technical questions. Targeted Active Learning: #AI can help you stay current on industry trends by summarizing key developments or strategic changes in the industry. During interviews, you can use AI to reference recent changes in a field or industry that demonstrate your commitment to the role, industry and being an active learner. You now have the knowledge of the world in the palm of your hand. Leverage in the job search process. Let your interviewers and prospective hirers know that you are ready and able to use it!

I am building my Ecosystem. Here’s why: During an interview early in my career, I was asked if I knew Engineers at other companies. At first, the question seemed unusual. Why would it matter? As my career has progressed, the significance of that question has become abundantly clear. In Dubai's fast-paced environment, where time equates to substantial money, knowing the right people across the industry can be as crucial as your technical skills. When you face a challenging problem, the ability to call on a colleague from another company can mean the difference between hours of stalled productivity and a quick, effective solution. It's not about going at it alone; it's about leveraging a collective wealth of knowledge. Building a strong professional network—or an ecosystem, It's about creating a community that propels you forward. When one of us stumbles, this ecosystem catches us, illuminates the path, and helps us move forward. I am actively building my ecosystem because I believe that the more interconnected we are, the more resilient we become. Whether you’re a client, a consultant, or a contractor, remember that being part of a well-connected community can amplify your ability to succeed and innovate. For anyone building their career, the stronger your network, the stronger you are. If you haven’t started yet, now is the time to build those connections. Strengthen your ecosystem and don't do it alone. -- "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." – Helen Keller

A Example of the Power of Networking in Aviation: A Proven Strategy for Pilots Pilots often ask me how they can stand out in the current competitive climate. My number one answer is always networking. There are many strategies to advance your career, but networking will take you further than nearly anything else. Here's a quick breakdown of my last 8 hires: ✈ ✈ Two (2) Low-Time Pilots with one of our type ratings: These individuals had the type ratings we needed. They reached out to connect with me although we did not have immediate openings. Within about two weeks, opportunities arose, and I contacted them and asked them to apply. * Reach out to operators who have planes you are typed in. You can usually see fleets on an operator's website. * Try to make a connection with one of their recruiters on LI. Make sure you let them know you have their type rating plus how much time you have in type. * Gently (not annoyingly 😅) keep in contact occasionally to "check in." Most recruiters will keep you in mind especially since classes are so hard to get and time in type is valuable. ✈ ✈ Five (5) were Referrals: A significant 63% of my recent hires came through referrals. It's not just about "what you know" but "who you know." These were well-qualified pilots, proving that networking doesn't mean someone less qualified takes your spot. Being a referral adds the added benefit of being what recruiters call a "known quantity." ✈ ✈ One (1) Applicant: This well-qualified Captain simply applied through Indeed after seeing our job posting. He simply applied...13% of my new hires "simply applied." The takeaway? If you're "simply applying," you could be missing out on over 80% of job opportunities. Networking is crucial. I'll be sharing tips on networking ideas throughout this week. It's been my top recommendation in nearly three decades of recruiting and management. **Important Note**: We post all job openings on our website and various job boards, even if we have referrals. As an experienced recruiter, I ensure we evaluate as many qualified candidates as possible. Stay tuned for more insights and "Like" / "Repost" this post if you find this info helpful or useful 🐉 😎 #AviationCareers #Networking #PilotJobs #CareerAdvice

Create the room. Then start the conversation. We talk a lot about being in the right room when it comes to networking... But what if that room doesn't exist yet? I've watched pilots wait... and wait... (Then wait some more.) They're all qualified and more than capable. But still stuck in the same holding pattern: Applying everywhere… Go to conferences… Following all the "standard" advice. But they're missing one key thing: Most career breakthroughs happen in conversations you didn't plan to have. (see my post from May about the Harley chat that got me hired at NetJets) Here's what I mean: Pilots with stellar resumes and clean records are sitting at home, waiting for the perfect opportunity to appear online. Meanwhile, other pilots are out there creating opportunities. They're showing up places, even though it feels awkward… They're attending industry meetups, even though they don't know anyone (yet)... And they're inviting others in the industry for coffee, even though they're introverted and have no idea what to say. They're not doing these things with an agenda or a pitch in mind… they're just looking to connect and build relationships. And that's where the magic happens. Aviation runs on trust and word-of-mouth. The best opportunities never hit the job boards. They happen in conversations between people who know each other. Pilots who've actually met and can vouch for each other. You don't need to be the smoothest talker in the room. You just need to be in the room. And if that room doesn't exist in your area? If there's no pilot group or industry meetup nearby? Build it yourself. Start small. Coffee with three other pilots once a month. Host a hangar talk. Create a WhatsApp group for local aviators. The point isn't the format - it's the connection. Because while everyone else is sending resumes into the void... You'll be building relationships with pilots who will be your friends and peers for life. Keep showing up. Fly safe, - James