What it takes to fly: 7 Must-Have Qualities for Aspiring Piedmont Flight Attendants
What makes a great Piedmont Flight Attendant? The answer lies in a combination of skills and personality traits. Here are the seven essential qualities that every successful flight attendant should embody, according to our team.
1. Always have a smile
Piedmont Flight attendants are responsible for the safety and comfort of all passengers on board. It’s important that Piedmont Flight Attendants attend to the passengers’ needs and have a customer service attitude at work.
“Be open minded about making friends,” says Dakota. “Make sure you’re a people person.”
In many cases, Piedmont Flight Attendants get to know their passengers on a personal level. “When we have a 2-hour flight we get to know everybody,” Iwona says. “We know their story, where they’re going, we see their pictures. It’s cool because we can mingle with people.”
2. Self-assurance
Piedmont Flight Attendants need to feel comfortable and confident working by themselves. “We only have one flight attendant on each flight,” Joyce explains. “So, you’re doing everything by yourself.”
Because there is only one flight attendant on each Piedmont flight, that flight attendant is responsible for everything from pre-flight checks to safety demonstrations to the catering service.
While being a solo flight attendant may sound daunting, there are benefits, too. “There’s a lot more responsibility, doing everything by yourself,” Dakota says. “But you can personalize the experience for your passengers.”
3. Punctuality
Every minute counts in an airline operation, being on time is key to being a successful flight attendant.
This means arriving at the airport on time to check-in on time and navigate your way to the gate. Once at your flight, there may be minimal time to prepare the cabin for departure. Therefore, time management and critical thinking skills are important to ensuring an on-time and safe departure.
4. A safety-focused mindset
Passenger safety is a flight attendant’s number one priority. “When situations occur in the air, we have to rely on our safety training to ensure our customers arrive at their destination safely.” Iwona says.
All Piedmont Flight Attendants are trained to handle any situation that may occur during a flight. It is crucial that all flight attendants follow all safety procedures before, during and after the flight.
5. Organization
“Being organized and efficient and ready for your passengers is key, since you’re the only flight attendant,” says Anika.
Piedmont Flight Attendants need to have their workspace organized, have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and duties, and have an eye for detail.
6. Communication
You’ll need to be able to communicate with gate agents, other flight attendants, the flight crew, and the passengers on board. Clear and effective communication is essential to ensure a smooth operation.
7. Adaptability
To be successful as a flight attendant, you need to be flexible. “Our trainers told us that the only thing we could depend on is change,” says Joyce.
Every flight is different, and each day can pose new challenges. There will be delays, changes in flight plans, and last-minute schedule adjustments. Flight attendants who are able to embrace these changes and remain flexible will be successful.
“We’re never bored,” Iwona adds. “Every day is a different day, that’s what makes me excited to come to work.”
If these qualities describe you, it may be time to take your career to the skies! Click here to learn more about becoming a Piedmont Flight Attendant.