My career at British Airways has been varied. It would be my 10th year in the company, including my 6 month hiatus. In BA it is very normal to stay in the company for decades. I never understood it until I left. I was desperate to try something new, and I thought that meant leaving the company. The great thing about working for a large organisation, is that there are various roles within the company. I never thought I would end up in Engineering, but it has been the best decision. Network, get to know other departments, because there really is something available for everyone in this company. Look at the careers page for inspiration and read the job description and advert, as some titles can be misleading! I was not afraid to leave BA for another reputable company, and I was not afraid to come back after 6 months. Try something new until you get what you are looking for.

I always say to my students at school ‘never be afraid to fail’. It’s only through failure that we learn how to succeed. Not everyone who applies to BA is successful the first time around. That’s OK. Just don’t give up and make sure you learn what you need to do differently next time. BA Cabin Crew come from all walks of life and all ages. If it’s something you’re really interested in then go for it, even if you think it’s way out your comfort zone or unlike anything you’ve done previously. Remember: to most people, the sky is the limit. To those who love aviation, the sky is home.

Let your personality shine - This is what will stand out to a potential employer. Other applicants may have just as much experience as you, but what they don’t have is your unique personality, so really bring that into your interview process. Do not let the job description scare you - it is ok to not tick all the boxes. Job descriptions are full of jargon and can be confusing to an outsider, do not let this put you off, if it is a role you think you are a match for, you are probably more than capable to perform in the role, and companies are likely to offer training to get you up to speed on the aspects you don’t yet have experience in. Don’t just be interviewed, do the interviewing – The potential employer want to ensure they are finding the right candidate, but you also need to be sure you are finding the right employer, don’t be afraid to ask questions and challenge the working environment. You spend most of your life at work, you need to be sure you are finding an environment that aligns with you personally. Be honest with yourself and the interviewer. A mantra of mine is to do a job you love. “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs