Originally Posted by
Chuckie
So, I'm sitting here in TAP class (Transition Assistance Program, mandated by Big Blue for separating service members) and our presenter is saying that letters of recommendation aren't really needed or wanted by employers any more. She makes the good point that they quickly become dated and it's better just to have the contact info for the employer to use as references.
Now, I know that internal recommendations are invaluable in getting on with the airlines, but what about external ones? I haven't actually applied yet (waiting on my ATP) and I haven't approached my "home run hitters" about writing a letter for me yet. For the successful airline guys here, could you write a few tidbits about how you handled this side of the application process? Did you limit your rec sources from one airline to just that airline, or did they write you a generic letter that you used at all of them? How many did you get? Did any of you have a less-than-stellar commander that you'd rather not get a letter from, and how did you handle that?
/sits here bored in class. Thank goodness for Wi-Fi!
While I do believe that TAP class is fairly valuable for many reasons like benefits, medical care, and how to lose the military lingo from every day talk, I don't think it does a very good job for transitioning pilots. The folks who put on our class were great people and well intentioned but had no idea about the process of applying to major airlines. LOR's are extremely valuable in our world.
I only knew a few people at major airlines but I asked them each to write me a letter for his airline specifically, and those LOR's were submitted online via airlineapps and pilot credentials. For JetBlue, I downloaded the letter to the online app and then I brought a hard copy to my interview (they didn't look at it though). For UAL they want 10 LOR's in airlineapps and it does NOT have to be from a UAL pilot or employee. I asked my current boss and former boss (both O-6's) as well as other staff members IOT (sorry, I still have a tough time losing the military lingo) ensure that I maxed out the LOR section for them.
My buddy who retired two years ago and now flies for a major has a philosophy that I am going to adopt: don't be afraid to dig deep into your memory bank and talk to folks about their airlines and ask for a LOR. BUT, when you are hired by an airline be sure to pay it forward and help out. Unless of course the person is a total tool/not a great pilot.
Later.