Originally Posted by
captive apple
Since this industry is cyclical so there will always be people burned by waiting for personal reasons, but the vast majority of those who delay a year largely are not affected by it. The same goes for those who pushed back their new hire class because in a few years the names melt away from the list above and below you.
I’d say in the last two decades more pilots have been burned by taking the first upgrade then become a miserable cuss.
Also, your next interviewer will have no idea if you didn’t take the first upgrade opportunity at your previous employer.
I'd like to believe this is true but history demonstrates that even a class date a week apart can massively affect one's outcomes. Therefore we regional pilots (with plans of moving on) should all arrive at the conclusion that the best hedge agaisnt the uncertainty inherent in the cyclical nature you mention is to take the first advancement oppertunity presented no ifs ands or buts. Unless you're completely happy with the status quo then be my guest and take your sweet time.
I guess what I'm saying is you'll never now if that extra year comes back to bite you in the ass, until it's too late. Better not to chance it. Sure, upgrading may not make the difference but it's certainly easier to justify it to a hiring board why you chose to instead of eschewing it because you didn't like the domicile offerings. You're supposed to be able to recognize it's a game, and play that game well. Just my 2 cents.
P.S.
Don't underestimate the intelligence of recruiting. They're literally paid to know exactly what they are looking at in a candidate and the industry's going-ons.