That's good to hear......

 

Need to re-post the ordering codes for Waffle House

 

For those who were hired, how did you prepare for the interview? Do you recommend interview preparation services being offered ? Just curious as to the paths taken by the ones who were hired.

 

Everything I could!!

I read the Delta web page, quarterly report, WFFF reports (not those from unsuccessful candidates), Aero for Naval Aviators, AIM, FARs, Lengel's "Everything Explained ..." Book, AFI 11-217 & 11-203, NTSB Rejected Takeoff analyses/report, Mental Math for Pilots, several Jet engine fundamental books, ATP test prep books, and all the trip reports from years past that I could get my hands on. I did all that while working my butt off as an active duty Squadron Commander then Deputy Ops Group Commander! ... I still thought I busted the knowledge test!!

I read the Cogscreen website and watched the examples. Very helpful!

Most successful candidates do some sort of prep. Whether it's Emerald Coast, Aero Crew Solutions, FAPA (Judy Tarver's team), etc...it's critical. I've heard great things about and know people who benefited from each of them. Interviewing well is an aquired skill...they teach you.

A friend and I gave each other 3 mock interviews, and we critiqued the hell out of ourselves. I recorded myself telling my stories and sample TMAAT or WWYD scenario responses in my iPhone as I drove to work. Didn't realize how lame I sounded at times and figured out ways to fix it. Another friend (who successfully interviewed the day before me) and I did mock interviews over the phone.

I picked my mentors' brains. They're sick of me.

What's funny is I never got a chance to do the polished story wrap ups I practiced because the panel always interrupted with follow up question or I forgot. Still, when the many unanticipated questions arose, I sifted through my mental Rolodex for solid responses.

Interview day was one of the most stressful things I've ever done...and I've done a lot! The hard work paid off in the end. A very professional United friend told me tonight to be very glad I'm going to Delta instead of UAL! The process is intended to be very difficult for a reason! Delta knows what it is looking for in it's pilots...it's more than just flying ability.

It was brutal watching the two guys in Tuesday's group go away empty handed. Great dudes, both. That final wait period after all is said and done is punishing.

Hope you get your shot!

Indy

 

And another thing...everybody seems so hung up on hours as why they're not getting the call. I've heard from very reliable sources that once you have enough hours to establish credibility/experience (as defined by your type of aircraft or type of operation), you have enough. What else does this guy have to offer. For comparison, here's the general makeup of all the guys/girls I met over 3 days plus individuals I talked to from the previous weeks.

Retiring/recently retired mil: right now...almost all were military commanders. One guy was offered a job 1 year away from his retirement date!

Separating mil: Formal training IPs (UPT/FTU/RAG, etc) & SEFE/NATOPs.

Guard/Reserves: mix of old & young. Same as above.

121: Capts 1 Emirates (FO I think).Legacies welcome. All did more than just fly the line.

1 Corporate guy.

Almost all had multiple Delta recs...usually with some seniority.

It sure appears the types of "extra effort" that makes one successful inside tand outside the cockpit is what makes one successful here too.

That's the typical gene pool for now.

 

Welcome aboard Indy! Congrats. I'm an 01 hire, retired USAF, similar career path as yours. You're coming to the right place.

Buzz

 

Thanks for the great information. Your preparation paid off, and you deserved every bit of it. Congratulations!

 

Just think how punishing it is for those airlines that don't tell their interviewees until days or weeks later. I love how Delta does it. You know, you go home.

 

I realize the dust is still settling from the merger but I'm curious why your friend feels this way?

 

Welcome aboard! We are really glad you are here.