If you’ve often thought about becoming a flight attendant but aren’t sure if it would be a good fit for you, then this article is for you. Many people wonder if being a flight attendant is right for them.
Below are the 7 best questions to ask yourself if you’re considering taking the plunge and becoming a flight attendant.
Take a few minutes to answer these questions for yourself and you’ll know if this is a great career fit for you in just a few minutes!
Do you meet the requirements?
In order to become a flight attendant, you’ll first have to meet the requirements. Although these can be tougher to meet than some other jobs, you shouldn’t assume that you’ll have an issue.
These requirements include things like:
- Criminal background checks
- High School Diploma
- Height and weight requirements
- and more
You’ll also have to make sure that you fit the appearance standards that the airlines are looking for. This sounds daunting, but is easier than it sounds once you look into it.
For a complete guide to what requirements you’ll have to meet, make sure to take a look at this article on flight attendant requirements.
Would you enjoy a non-traditional work schedule?
Flight attendants have a very non-traditional work schedule that includes working nights, weekends, and holidays.
As you gain experience and seniority you’ll have more and more control over which shifts and flights you’ll be working. When first starting out you’ll likely have to take many of the shifts that cover nights, weekends, and holidays.
If you are single and free of responsibilities, this might not be a problem at all for you. I remember when I was in my early 20’s for example, I loved these weird work hours.
But, that isn’t for everyone. Different people have different needs outside of work and this might not work for you. If you have a young family at home and are expected to be there due to your living arrangement, then being a flight attendant might not be the best choice for you.
Related: How flight attendant schedules work
Do you like to travel?
This should be an easy one since I doubt you’re really considering being a flight attendant if you don’t like to travel.
Flight attendants travel for a living. Not only do you fly all over the country (or even the world) for the flights you work but you might also have to travel just to get to shift in the first place.
In many cases being flight attendant also means you don’t get to sleep in your bed every night like most people. Flight attendants have to be willing to sleep wherever the job allows. This includes hotels, airports, crash pads, and more.
Related: Where do flight attendants sleep?
Some people look at this as being inconvenient while others love the adventure. The hidden bonus here is that if you love to travel you’ll have the opportunity to do a ton of it!
One thing that should be obvious but I still think needs to be said – You can’t be afraid to fly. If getting a plane makes you want to pass out then this is a career you should pass on.
If you love to travel and go on new adventures, this might be the best career you could ask for.
Do you like people? (even unhappy ones?)
Flight attendants have 2 primary roles:
- Passenger safety (and all the procedures that go along with it on the aircraft)
- Passenger happiness
As you can imagine, interacting with passengers takes up the most time and focus during a flight. You’ll be helping passengers with luggage, answering questions, taking complaints, and more.
If you’re a people person and love the interactions, this won’t be a problem. However, not everyone is cut out for this type of repeated human interaction that sometimes lasts several hours in a row.
Not only do flight attendants have to interact with people all day long, many of them are not even happy. Passengers are often tired, frustrated, angry, and even intoxicated. They might have just missed a flight or had one delayed. They might be on their way to a funeral for a loved one or returning from a work trip that didn’t go well.
You will likely have to interact with a lot of people that want to take their bad day out on you and you’ll have to do this while smiling and continuing to be friendly.
In addition to all of that, you’ll also be a part of a team that includes other flight attendants, pilots, management, and others. You’ll have to be skilled at being part of a team and being able to build relationships with colleagues.
It’s not easy and it isn’t for everyone.
How much money do you expect to earn?
Although being a flight attendant won’t always make you rich, you will earn a great income and have access to some great benefits.
Flight attendants earn a very comfortable wage when first starting out and as they gain experience can end up earning well into the six figure range.
In addition to great pay, the benefits for flight attendants are amazing and include things like retirement plans, medical insurance, and the ability to often fly for free.
Related: How much do flight attendants make?
Do you being active while at work?
Being a flight attendant is a physically demanding job. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet doing things that can exhaust you. This includes walking, helping passengers lift luggage, doing safety protocols, and more. Many new flight attendants are shocked at how demanding the job can be.
If you like staying active and have a great deal of energy, then you’ll enjoy this. If you hate the idea of sitting at a desk all day, then this should be a great switch for you. If you prefer surfing the internet at your desk however, this isn’t the job for you.
Do you like to take care of your appearance?
Have you ever noticed how most flight attendants tend to have a similar appearance? They are almost always in good physical shape, have a well kept appearance, and look like they go the extra mile to take care of themselves.
This is because part of being a flight attendant is always maintaining a high level of professionalism and the appearance that airlines want for their flight attendants. Since you’ll be the face of the airline as far as passengers are concerned, your employer will take your appearance very seriously.
If you naturally like taking care of your appearance and doing your hair, make-up, and ironing your outfit is something you don’t mind, then you’re in the clear. If you prefer to spend your days in an old t-shirt and don’t worry too much about what you look like, then be prepared to start spending a lot more time getting ready for work if you become a flight attendant.
Summary
Being a flight attendant is a great career and can help make your entire life better if it’s a good fit for you and your lifestyle. I recommend reading each of the above questions and giving them some thought. If you think you want to take a chance and become a flight attendant, make sure to read our guide on doing just that if you don’t have prior experience.
Best of luck!
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