Mastering Intentional Interview Skills to Maximize Success
- Brainz Magazine
- Dec 22, 2025
- 8 min read
Written by Dawn Whyte, Career Coach
Dawn Whyte is known for her work in building individual resilience in aviation. She is an air traffic controller, keynote speaker, and founder of Dawn Whyte Aviation Career Coaching.
Aviation. It is an extraordinary industry, one where you can rise above the clouds, soar with the birds, and gaze down on the world with a sense of awe and wonder. Flying is a sensation like no other. It is no surprise that Wilbur and Orville Wright were so determined to take flight. Once aviation is in your blood, it becomes a part of you. You can try to walk away, pursue other paths, but somehow, it always calls you back. It is more than a career for many: it is a calling.
Whether you are 22 or 42, age is not the defining factor. While seniority often plays a role in career progression, and starting early can offer certain advantages, it is not a rigid rule. There are countless exceptions. Not everyone aspires to command a Boeing 777 across oceans. Some find deep fulfillment in short-haul operations. Being home each night, staying closely connected to the hands-on aspects of flying, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle have their own appeal. Each pilot, dispatcher, or aviation professional has their own vision of success, and all are valid. The key is knowing what matters most to you.
It is also important to recognize that the traditional career trajectory of our parents, one job, one company, one lifelong path, is no longer the norm. Today, it is common to have multiple careers across different industries or roles. People pivot, reinvent themselves, and bring a wealth of diverse experiences to new opportunities. Aviation is no exception. Whether you are entering the field for the first time or returning after time away, your unique background can be an asset. What matters most is your passion, your commitment to growth, and your readiness to contribute. The sky is not the limit. It is just the beginning.
But first, you have to land the job. When it comes to the all-important interview, there are critical factors that can quickly disqualify a candidate, none of which are age or experience. These pitfalls are often avoidable and apply universally across aviation roles, whether you are pursuing a position as a pilot, customer service agent, or dispatcher. Across many interviews and coaching conversations, certain patterns tend to emerge. Here are a few areas where candidates often stumble, and how to navigate them with confidence.
1. Poor communication
In aviation, communication isn’t just a skill. It is a cornerstone of safety, efficiency, and operational excellence. The ability to convey information clearly, concisely, and accurately can be the difference between a smooth operation and a critical incident. In high-pressure environments, there is no room for ambiguity or lengthy explanations. Time is often limited, and clarity is essential.
During an interview, your communication style is under immediate scrutiny. Interviewers are not only listening to what you say, but how you say it. Are your responses structured and relevant? Do you directly answer the question asked, or do you veer off topic? Is your language precise, or do you leave room for misinterpretation?
Poor communication in an interview can raise red flags about how you might perform in real-world scenarios, especially in roles where clear, timely exchanges are vital. Miscommunication in aviation can lead to operational delays, strained team dynamics, and, in worst-case scenarios, safety risks. As one industry veteran aptly put it, “For a field built on communication, we often do a poor job of it,” and that shortfall comes at a cost.
To stand out, practice active listening, think before you speak, and aim to deliver responses that are both thoughtful and succinct. It is perfectly acceptable to buy yourself a few seconds of thinking time by repeating the question back to the interviewer. This not only helps clarify the question in your own mind but also signals that you are actively listening and processing the information.
If permitted by the panel, consider bringing a pen and notebook to the interview and use them to jot down key elements of each question. This can help you structure your response more effectively and ensure you address all parts of the question thoroughly. Organizing your thoughts is not a weakness, but a strength. It also demonstrates a thoughtful, methodical approach to problem-solving, an essential trait in aviation and other high-stakes environments. Nerves can cause you to speak too quickly, which may dilute the clarity of your message. Practice slowing your pace by rehearsing aloud and recording yourself. This will help you become more aware of your natural rhythm and allow you to adjust as needed.
Demonstrate that you understand the importance of communication not just as a soft skill, but as a professional imperative. In doing so, you will not only make a strong impression, but you will also reflect the very qualities that aviation demands.
2. Lack of preparation
One of the most common concerns I hear from candidates is, “I’m so nervous about this interview.” Yet when I ask what they have done to prepare, the answer is often surprisingly and alarmingly, “Nothing.”
Preparation is the single most effective way to reduce anxiety and increase confidence. It allows you to walk into the interview with clarity, purpose, and a sense of control. Start by thoroughly researching the company. Understand its mission, values, and culture. What sets them apart from their competitors? What are they proud of? What challenges are they facing? And most importantly, how can you contribute to their success?
Next, anticipate the types of questions you might be asked, both technical and behavioral. Many interviews are designed to assess soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and communication. Practice responding to behavioral questions using a structured method like the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to ensure your answers are focused and relevant. Avoid rambling. If you need a moment to think, embrace the pause. It is far more professional than filling the silence with “um” and “ah.”
3. Failing to master your presence in person or online
Your presentation speaks volumes before you even say a word. Choose attire that makes you feel confident, composed, and authentic. First impressions matter, and what you wear influences not only how others perceive you, but how you carry yourself.
If your interview is virtual, via Zoom, Teams, or another platform, your physical presence becomes even more important. Energy does not always translate well through a screen, so you need to be intentional about how you show up. Sit tall, maintain good posture, and be mindful of nervous habits like fidgeting or tapping. These can be distracting and may undermine your message.
Make eye contact by looking directly into the camera. Do not look at your own image or the bottom of the screen. This creates a stronger sense of connection with your interviewer. And do not underestimate the power of a genuine smile. A warm, approachable demeanor can go a long way in building rapport and leaving a lasting impression.
Ultimately, your goal is to project confidence, professionalism, and authenticity, whether you are sitting across the table or across the screen. Use your presence to reinforce the message that you are ready, capable, and a great fit for the team.
4. Failing to sleep, eat, and move before the interview
Your physical and mental state on the day of the interview is just as important as any other factor. Get a full night’s sleep beforehand. Eat something nourishing to fuel your brain. Engage in activities that help you feel energized and grounded. For some, that might be meditation or a quiet walk. For others, like myself, it is a workout. Nothing sharpens my focus and boosts my confidence like the endorphin rush from a spin class or a run outdoors.
The key is knowing what works for you. Preparation is not just about rehearsing answers. It is about setting yourself up to perform at your best. Take the time to prepare intentionally, and you will walk into that interview not just ready, but empowered.
5. Too much focus on “I,” not “we”
“How do you handle pressure and stressful situations?” It is one of the most common interview questions and one you can almost certainly expect. But it is also representative of a broader category of behavioral questions designed to assess how you think, act, and interact under pressure. You are being paid not only for how you handle the normal, but also the abnormal.
In aviation, no role exists in isolation. It is a highly interconnected industry where every action has a downstream effect. Whether you are a pilot, dispatcher, ground crew member, or customer service agent, each relies on the other to ensure safety, efficiency, and a seamless operation. That is why, even when a question begins with “Tell me about a time you,” your answer should evolve into a story that reflects a “we.”
When responding, do not just focus on your individual actions. Highlight how you collaborated with others, leveraged the strengths of your team, and contributed to a shared outcome. Demonstrate that you understand the value of a team effort and that you thrive in environments where teamwork is essential.
Too often, candidates fall into the trap of making their answers entirely self-focused. But aviation is a team sport. Whether you are flying an aircraft, coordinating a turnaround, or managing a customer issue, your ability to work cohesively with others is critical. Interviewers are listening for signs that you are not only capable, but also collaborative.
In a world increasingly driven by individualism and self-promotion, amplified by social media, those who can genuinely showcase humility, empathy, and a team-first mindset stand out. Buck the trend. Show that you are not just there to succeed personally, but to contribute meaningfully to the success of the organization and those around you. That mindset is what sets apart good candidates from great ones.
6. Review your digital footprint
In today’s world, your online presence is often the first impression you make, sometimes even before you walk into the interview. A quick search on social media can reveal a great deal about who you are, how you present yourself, and what values you project.
Take the time to review your profiles through the lens of a potential employer. Does your digital persona align with the professional image you want to convey? Authenticity is important, but so is judgment, especially in a safety-sensitive industry like aviation. If your feed is dominated by late-night party photos or questionable content, it could raise concerns about your judgment, reliability, or professionalism.
Remember, your goal is to position yourself as a trustworthy, capable team member. That may mean adjusting how you present yourself online to reflect your current aspirations. This is not about being inauthentic. It is about being intentional. Life is full of transitions, and adapting your image to support your goals is a powerful form of resilience and self-awareness. Make sure your online presence supports the future you are working towards.
As we head into 2026, the outlook is promising. With greater economic stability and a strong summer season on the horizon, opportunities in aviation and beyond are expanding. If you are preparing for an interview or navigating a career transition, now is the time to invest in yourself. I am here to help you show up with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Let’s work together to align your preparation with your goals, because when you are ready, opportunity has a way of finding you. Reach out, and let’s get started.
Read more from Dawn Whyte
Dawn Whyte, Career Coach
Dawn Whyte is an aviation career coach who excels in resilience training. She is known for her work assisting individuals in navigating stressful situations with confidence and determination. With 35 years of experience as a successful air traffic controller, Dawn leverages her personal story to connect and inspire others to embrace life challenges with renewed optimism and intention. Faced with an unexpected and life-changing job change when she least expected it, she seized the opportunity to create a role focused on promoting mental health and wellness in aviation. Dawn's unique perspective has made her a trailblazer in aviation and a trusted voice of reason in an ever-changing industry.
.jpg)