Navigating the Winds of Change: 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Leaving Your Pilot Job

At BizJetJobs.com, we've seen the business aviation landscape evolve dramatically. Today, pilots are in high demand, making it a pilot's market. Despite this, one constant remains: change is inevitable. As corporate pilots, it's essential to remember that the aviation community is tightly knit. Leaving on good terms with your boss and colleagues is crucial, as these individuals may serve as references or future co-workers. Damaging professional relationships can have long-lasting repercussions. With numerous opportunities available and pilots frequently transitioning to more ideal positions, here are six common mistakes to avoid when leaving your pilot job.

1. Failing to Give Proper Notice

Always provide a two-week notice in a formal resignation letter to your boss when leaving a job. When accepting a new offer, ensure your start date accommodates this notice period. This allows you to leave your current position without disrupting the schedule. Informing your boss before your colleagues is crucial; it's respectful and maintains your professional reputation.

2. Leaving Without a Transition Plan

Show consideration for the person who will succeed you by offering to train them or providing detailed documentation of your role and responsibilities. Ensure that all ongoing projects are well-documented and accessible to your boss and the incoming pilot. Some corporate pilots even recommend a friend or colleague to take over their position, which can be beneficial for all parties involved.

3. Overstaying Your Welcome

While you want to ensure a smooth transition, it's important to recognize when your presence is no longer beneficial. If your employer asks you to stay longer than two weeks, unless there’s a legal or contractual obligation, you shouldn’t feel pressured to extend your notice period. Two weeks is generally sufficient for a professional handover.

4. Saying Too Much

The corporate aviation community is small, and reputations can follow you. During your exit interview, be honest yet constructive. Avoid making comments that could come back to haunt you. It's highly likely that you'll cross paths with your former colleagues in the future, so maintain professionalism.

5. Leaving Behind Personal Items

Before you leave, ensure all personal items, especially sensitive information, are removed from company devices. Your work computer, phone, and other equipment should be cleared of personal documents to protect your privacy and maintain professionalism.

6. Not Having a Plan for Yourself

Avoid leaving your current job without securing another position. Gaps in your resume can hinder your job search, so even if your current role is challenging, try to stay until you have a new job lined up. If you need assistance finding your next corporate pilot job, join BizJetJobs.com. As a member, you can update your resume or use our Resume Builder to create a new one. Top aviation employers visit our site daily to find qualified candidates like you. Plus, you can receive job alerts directly to your inbox to apply as soon as an opportunity arises.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth transition and maintain your professional reputation in the tight-knit aviation community.