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Did you know that pilots use different resumes than the standard resume platform? They are not completely different but there are a few notable differences that potential employers look for in a pilot resume. Let's break down the top six most important things to put on your pilot resume… 1) Your Name and Address
I know, it might sound silly to make a point to put your "name and address" on a resume but it has been brought up by employers that candidates have in the past misspelled their names or addresses listed. They need an easy way to contact you as well as the correct spelling. Your resume should be free of any grammar errors. It is highly recommended not to create a resume in a rush and have at least two other people look it over before you submit it.
2) Keep the Format Simple
There are a lot of templates listed on Word, Google Docs, etc. but most will not tell you that they have set margins and formats which usually limit the amount of information you can put on one page. Even though they are sometimes helpful to look at as a template, the best advice I have received from several pilots and employers is to start from scratch and build your own without a ready-made template.
3) Certificates
List your certificates such as current First Class Medical privileges, Passport, ATP privileges, type ratings, Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP), etc. This helps employers see how your experience meets up to their requirements and what you are certified to doing.
4) Flight Time
Your flight time is super important because this is one of the main ways pilot recruiters verify that you have the required time to be hired for certain positions. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind. If you have a total flight time of 199.9 hours, this is not how you should write it out. Make sure none of the numbers have decimal points, but you also CANNOT round up to 200 hours. The way you would express it would be "Total Flight Time 199 hours". It's always safer to lessen your hours compared to adding flight experience you don't actually have. Even just a 0.1.
5) Employment
Your experience in the field gives you situational and real-world exposure. It says that " I have the necessary qualifications to be an asset to your company". If you are going to apply for a customer service job, you need to tailor your resume to fit those experience requirements to the best of your ability. Same with aviation. If you want a pilot job in the future, today you should consider becoming a fueler, a ramp agent, etc. These positions help you become a better well-rounded person for the job you desire later on in life.
6) Education
Some take into great consideration where you did your training. Sometimes recruiters look for a conversational piece and if you attended the same school as them, your educational similarities just may get you an interview. Seriously, I've heard some stories. For some other reasons, your grade point average, your involvement in organizations, etc. show your effort and passion for the field. Is the program accredited? Or does it have airline affiliations? These all play a part in creating your foundation as a pilot and how well you will fit into the company culture.