Some things I've learned in my career...

1) You will be a much healthier person if you don't identify as a pilot. Your job is a pilot and that is where it should end. Not getting hired or getting furloughed does not make you a bad person. It doesn't even mean you are a bad pilot.

2) If you are asked about your hobbies during an interview and you can't answer without talking about airplanes get a new hobby.

3) The times I didn't get hired were beneficial to my career.

4) There are probably hundreds of metrics and statistics that show what makes a good pilot but it really comes down to two things; your ability to fly an airplane and not annoy the guy next to you on a four day trip. Concentrate on the latter during an interview.

5) The internet tells your story. Google yourself to see what your future employer thinks of you. It might be time to delete your Facebook account.

6) Take career risks early in your career. This is likely the only time in your life that you will be able to afford to bust.

7) Don't put yourself in a situation where you can't take risks in your career.

8) It's okay to slam-click sometimes.

9) Don't commute.

10) If you absolutely have to commute - you will at some point - make yourself as comfortable as possible. A nice crashpad, car, golf clubs, bicycle, etc. will make your time away from home much nicer.

11) It's a long career; make decisions for the long term.