Originally Posted by
Going2Baja
I would say interview prep at Alaska is a requirement. They interview differently than other airlines. It was 70% Brown Nose your way into the job and 30% Do you know how to fly. Make sure you get all the Core Values down and how to apply them (even though the Company doesn't follow them themselves.) They believe they're giving you a PHD in Aviation, it's really just a BS like all the rest, but they like to think they have it all figured out.
If you REALLY want to stay in the PNW, then this is a Co for you. Otherwise I'd suggest hitting them all (But NEVER tell AS that.)
Good Luck, Baja.
Very poor advice from someone who is bitter and seems like he got fired or didn't really want to work here and jumped ship as soon as anyone else would give him the time of day ...
I didn't brown nose at all. The company instructors are great and humble, and they don't come across as know it all's in any way. I am sorry you are so bitter, Baja, and hope your life as a double-breasted Borg is more fulfilling. Personally, I enjoy the small company feel (I have called the schedulers several times and they are always friendly and work with me) and am grateful I have yet to fly with someone that has your attitude.
For the truth in the interview process, it was all HR-type questions, and zero technical questions, as they assume you can fly, and they teach you what you need to know during a great training course. Interview prep is a must, as you don't know how you come across until you try to phrase answers.
The whole airline process did seem odd to me as a retired military dude, but I get it... As one base chief pilot put it, "We have 3000 applicants for 150 jobs, and 1000 of those are RJ pilots with 10,000 hours. What sets them apart?"
And as far as Delta's application, BajatheBorg, at least Alaska doesn't allow some psychologist to override the pilots in hiring decisions. Now, THAT is BS!