Have you ever heard the term “six degrees of separation?” It’s a theory that any two people can be connected through a chain of six or fewer connections. Well, in aviation, I have an informed opinion that we are all connected through far fewer than six connections. And, in aviation, it has been my experience that having a strong network of connections can improve your chances for career success and advancement.
Think about your high school or college experience. If someone asks you if you know someone, you either say “Yes” – or say, “No, but I think I know someone who knows them,” – or “No, but I’ve heard of them.” I’d bet you could connect with that unknown person through one or two – maybe as few as three – introductions if you wanted. Aviation is the same way!
I’ll use myself as an example. When I graduated college, I had a degree in aviation management and was working as a flight instructor for my university. I thought I wanted to be an airline pilot, but I also thought I might be interested in pursuing a non-flying aviation management career instead. My airline boyfriend (connection No. 1) had an airline pilot roommate (connection No. 2) who had a business aviation dispatcher girlfriend (connection No. 3) who knew a coworker in the charter sales division (connection No. 4) who was hiring at their business aviation management company. I had an interview with connection No. 4 – who did not hire me – BUT, once I met him, he became connection No. 1.
The next day he recommended me to one of his coworkers (connection No. 2) who was hiring in flight operations – and I got that job instead! The rest of my business aviation career is history thanks to those connections. The point is: Networking is key in this industry.
But networking is not just about finding a lead for your next job. Connecting with peers and leaders can be both inspirational and aspirational. You’ll find mentors to help you grow as an individual; you’ll meet thought leaders who will help you think critically, and you will find peers with whom you can benchmark to share and learn best practices.
My best tip is to create your professional presence on LinkedIn. Many articles can tell you how your presence and engagement on this social network can lead to success. Or ask someone to help you get started! I’ll be your first connection. Find me on LinkedIn and request a connection. Be sure to add a personal note with this code phrase – “six degrees.” I’m looking forward to connecting with you!
Oh, and another pro tip: Get connected to the other people in this magazine, too. They want to help you on your journey as much as I do!
Go to: linkedin.com/in/joannedamato
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.