I don't disagree. However....

I didn't have anyone review my SWA app. I signed up for interview prep but wasn't able to schedule any prep before doing the HR portion of the SWA interview. Did no LOI prep because the LOI was replaced by the SBQ for my interview group. In retrospect, the logbook review and SBQ required no specific prep. I already know how to wear a well-fitting suit.

My interview prep that occurred after my SWA interview has been helpful for sure, however I was successful at a SWA interview without it.

As always, your mileage may vary....

 

I agree as I didn’t use any prep either and I did the LOI. That’s not to say it doesn’t help some but I didn’t find it required.

 

It's a cottage industry.
i never understood it.
I interviewed in early '16:

Never a ckam
No type rating
No professional interview prep.

Been here 6 1/2 years.

Like the last guy said, YMMV; how about just maybe have some confidence and BE YOURSELF.

 

Yeah second the above. If you are getting prep with the idea that they will give you all the answers then you are in the wrong mindset.

The thing they want to see is who you are, not hear a canned answer. The best prep to do is to learn how to gather your thoughts into a formative response to their questions.

 

Thats why I needed the prep. It was a good way to get some perspective on how my experiences related to the questions they might ask. I had never interviewed for a job before. Went straight from high school jobs to the military to here. “Tell me about a time you provided great customer service” before prep would have found me fumbling some garbage. Prep helped me look at my career in a different light, so I came across as myself instead of a deer caught in the headlights. I think if you’ve interviewed for a job before with an HR panel, and can get some practice in a mock interview setting with a friend, you’ll be confident enough to relax and be yourself. That’s mainly what they’re looking for. I’d avoid anyone telling you to have canned answers or a formula for how to ace an LOI. I think my inexperience in an HR environment was a unique situation and the prep really helped.

 

For some people it is absolutely needed, much like in your experience. I think the point some of us were making is that each person needs to self reflect and determine if its the right choice. In my case, I seem to do very well off the cuff so to speak and this wasn't my first airline interview so I felt it not worth it. To each their own.

 

I paid for a service and found it very helpful. I had never interviewed for an airline job and have been in the same job for the past 20 years. It gave me a framework to refine my TMAAT stories, practice with an audience, and build confidence. About a week before the interview, I reviewed my notes and decided I was done preparing. During the interview, I stayed away from canned answers and spoke like I was talking to colleagues. I think my ease and confidence carried the day. If you already feel that way, I suggest you consider saving your money. Otherwise, prepare in whatever manner gets you to that place.

 

Interviewed this week. Had I spent 600$ on interview prep, I would’ve been upset and felt like I wasted money. Thinking logically, being real, and honesty was the best prep for this interview.

 

Today's only necessary interview prep:
Stand in front of the mirror.
Get really close.
Check for fog.
If no fog, get closer and breathe deeper.

 

Be able to identify a 737 on two out of three attempts if you see one on the ramp.