Originally Posted by
chazbird
RE; Letters of recommendation. I was using CAL as an example, since it was the thread. I'm aware that DAL, SWA, FEDEX, UPS, etc. also tend to rely on or require recommendations. I don't think I'm lazy, I was just trying to make a point; I have good, very long term friends whom I've flown with at DAL, UAL, AWA/USAIRWAYS, ATA, FedEx, SWA, family at FedEx and ex-coworkers at SWA, CAL, Cathay, & Allegiant. I'm also aware that corporate flying (and some corporations in general) do the same. I'm not denying I haven't had a friend walk in a resume. True, it does show initiative to try and find someone to get you a recommendation, but sometimes someone's got to wonder how narrow that initiative might be. That person "knew" the other for how long? Under what circumstances? The jump-seat? An afternoon barbecue? But that's a better situation than someone with better experience or qualifications? I still think its a less than fair situation. When the US military starts this for new pilots, I wonder if its still a good thing.
Chaz - here's the bottom line. You're exactly right...in that the "quality" of the rec also plays a major part. Any company worth their salt is going to question an internal rec if that is from a chance encounter at a barbque. And these major's like FDX, CAL, DAL, etc...see right through the bullsh*t. I'll give you my example. I had only one internal guy with CAL...however, he was a fellow military bubba in my squadron and I had flown with the guy on multiple occasions. He wrote me a solid letter and went to the CP for me in IAH. Case closed. On the flipside, there are dudes with multiple letters of rec that have never flown with their sponsors, but just happen to know them from family ties or as friends/acquantinces. There still trying. I know you get my drift. And thank you for being professional on here - very much unlike Eric Stratton.