About GAJ Expertise I have worked in entry-level hotel and airline positions, all the way through General Management in hotels and In-Flight Management for an airline. I have experience working with the Sheraton, Hilton, Marriot, Carlson and Accor brands of hotels from full to economy service and an International Airline based out of Milwaukee, WI. I help guide students and hospitality career-seekers in the right direction. I have more Operations Experience than F&B but can answer most questions without hesitation.
Most specifically, I can answer any career-related questions regarding entry level through upper management Hotel & Restaurant Management positions. Operations, Administration, HR, P&L, Revenue Management, F&B, S&M, Hotel Lingo, Interviewing tips (Interviewer/Interviewee) and hotel-specific resume tips and questions regarding airline Cabin Crew careers. Don't hesitate to ask. If I do not personally know the answer, I will give my best effort to find one for you.
Experience Ten years of Hospitality/Management experience in Full, Limited and Economy service lodging.
Organizations National Association of Parliamentarians
Education/Credentials MBA Candidate - Everest University
B.S. Business Management - Florida Metropolitan University
A.S. Psychology - Ashworth College
Hotel & Restaurant Management Diploma
Travel & Tourism Diploma
FAA Flight Attendant Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency
Licensed Bartender
State of WI certified ServSafe Food Protection Manager
Education/Credentials MBA Candidate - Everest University
B.S. Business Management - Florida Metropolitan University
A.S. Psychology - Ashworth College
Hotel & Restaurant Management Diploma
Travel & Tourism Diploma
FAA Flight Attendant Certificate of Demonstrated Proficiency
Licensed Bartender
State of WI certified ServSafe Food Protection Manager
Awards and Honors Summa Cum Laude
FMU President's List
FMU Dean's List
How do I go about finding out what I need to do to become a Flight Attendant for any airline? I am in Louisville, KY very close to Louisville International Airport. I need any information you can give to help me begin my search.
Thank you ,
Diana Walsh
Answer Hello Diana,
One of the biggest requirements of a Flight Attendant is a bubbly personality and someone who can think quick on their feet (literally).
These positions are very competitive because they attract all walks of life from various industries -- seeking an adventure or some sort of fulfillment within their lives.
For most Flight Attendant positions, you cannot just contact the hiring manager and ask for an interview. You must attend what are called "Open Sessions" where you may or may not need a reservation -- most are first come, first to get in the doors.
Literally, sometimes so many people show up that not everyone can get into the door when there is an open session. These events are held at hotels and convention centers, and you are required to dress your best and bring your resume and other pre-determined application materials in order to get an on-the-spot interview. If you arrive late, tough luck; You most likely won't get in.
It seems like a lot of work. That is because it is, as it will be on the job. You have to come prepared and arrive EARLY.
How do you find out when/where these events are?
Glad you asked.
You must contact airlines individually to find out which cities are hosting open sessions. KEY POINT: If you are not flexible to relocate or work bizarre hours for mediocre pay, this is not the job for you. Nevertheless, I always warn of the cons before mentioning the pros -- just so you have the info.
There are many perks of working for an airline, in addition to many personal and professional "highs" you can get from working in such an industry. In fact, my mother and spouse both work for a major airline -- and the stories never get boring. =)
So get on the Telephone, Internet, etc and start finding out where these open sessions are being held. Pay close attention to the details. Some airlines require certain steps you must take before going to one. I.e. reservations, submit application/resume beforehand, etc. Do your homework first.
Remember, dress your best, SMILE and be prepared to demonstrate (not just say) why you are the best person to be a Flight Attendant. They do hire based on seniority, but rarely ever based on experience. Most hire for attitude -- train for skill. Keep that in mind.