Expert: David A. NewMyer - 6/30/2007

Question
Respected Sir,

I have completed my graduation in Commerce and then i have completed my diploma in Air-ticketing and Air-Cargo management. Now i have two years experience as a domestic Counter staff issuing domestic tickets. Now i have got an opportunity to work as an international Counter staff. So i just want to know what are the available steps for me to grow in this industry, Since lot of people give different ideas,i am confused, please give me some suggestion to plan myself.

Answer
Hi,

Thank you for your question.  I will try to assist.

Most airlines like to "hire from within" when they fill management positions.  I believe that your next step working with the International Counter staff will give you more breadth in your experience with the airline industry and make you more qualified to step up to a management position.  I would expect that, after five years of total experience with an airline, you can begin to expect to be considered for a management position.  There are two different tracks that I am aware of that you could take:

1.  Become a supervisor/manager right where you are (in the domestic or international counter staff areas)--apply for these positions when they become open; OR,

2.  Apply internally for other positions in the company such as in sales or marketing or corporate planning based on your experience with the company.  In most airlines, such positions are posted first for internal applications, and then they advertise externally for new employees.  So, take your opportunities with the internal application process and take advantage of your experience with your airline!

I hope that this helps.

Sincerely,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu