Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

Just wanted to say hello... I read most of your book and enjoyed reading about the techniques that one may employ to secure the elusive first job. I've taken notes and am prepared to use many of the methods you suggest.

I am, however, narrow minded in my search right now. I am STUCK on working for a major airlines (ie American, Delta, United, etc). I have a BS in Industrial Engineering & Management and a MS in Higher Ed Administration. I would like to get a job as an IE, but am willing to work from bottom up if necessary (ie. reservation agent, customer service, etc) just to get my foot in the door. I figure I can prove myself once I get in the door and then move up to job more suited for my talents.

Moving up is something I have first hand experience with. After working for a temporary agency service who placed me at a local newspaper as Customer Service Rep for a mere two week making about $4.50, I was hired on with the newspaper as part-time worker making about $8.00 but able to work 50 hours a week. About 2 months later, I was then offered full-time employment as asst. supervisor making about $10.00 per hour. I opted, however, to return to school and complete my Master's.

Do you have any advise for the person looking to get in a particular business (ie Airlines)?

Thanks for any comments & the book.

From: L.B.

ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi LB!

Glad to hear that you're enjoying the book.

You've correctly assessed the airlines in saying that you may need to take a job beneath your target in order to get in the door. Many current airline employees started out at the ticket counter.

But that still doesn't answer how to get that first job. The key is with direct contact. If you have inside contacts, start there. But don't be afraid to pick up the phone and call directly to the hiring managers. There are plenty of good calling techniques in the book for you to use (see Chapter 11 - Getting Inside Hiring Companies).

For a more aggressive approach, go to your local airport, approach the airline ticket counters (that aren't busy, if possible), and ASK the employees how they got their job with the airline. Then tell them about your background and ask if they would be willing to refer you. Many airlines offer referral bonuses (often $1000 or more) for internal referrals. Bring along plenty of resumes and be ready to step aside temporarily if customers are waiting. This is a modification of the "Baby on the Doorstep Technique" that will work well for this specific industry.

I hope this info will give you a start. Keep making direct contact. And remember as you begin hearing "no" that it only requires one "yes."

Happy hunting!