Free or deeply-discounted travel to any destination in your employer's route network is one of the great perks of airline industry jobs.You don't need to be a pilot or flight attendant to get these perks.An airline gate agent position requires little to no travel and is based in an airport.If a job that requires travel isn't something you want to do, then becoming an airline gate agent may be a good fit.
Step 1: The duties of an airline gate agent are explained.
Handling carry-on baggage that must be checked, scanning tickets, and boarding and deplaning aircraft are some of their primary responsibilities.They can also work at the baggage claim office in smaller airports if they double as check-in counter agents.
Step 2: You can find the right airline for you.
To find the best fit for you, go online and look at different companies and airlines.If you have an interest in traveling out of the country, look at international carriers.Do you want to work for a budget or luxury airline?The destinations flown to and the comfort in the plane may be differences.The size of the airline will be best for you.Some airlines have tens of thousands of employees while others, such as local carriers, can be quite small.Smaller airlines can give you the chance to check-in repeat customers and make friends, while the larger airlines tend to fly to more destinations and have international routes.You may have an interest in specific airlines.
Step 3: There is an airline gate agent position.
If you want to stay in your current location, you should check for positions at your local airport and the airlines that operate there.Search at the closest airports if you have a specific location in mind.You can use a search engine that specializes in aviation jobs.
Step 4: You should have the basic requirements for the position.
Gate agents must be at least 18 years old, have graduated high school, and have a valid driver's license.It is important to read all job positions carefully because the basic requirements may be different from airline to airline.
Step 5: You should be able to lift heavy objects.
You can help customers carry their luggage onto scales or conveyer belts.It's important to make sure you're ready for lifting 50 pounds of luggage.
Step 6: Customer service skills can be learned.
You may have to deal with upset customers if you are an airline gate agent.If you don't have a lot of customer service experience, read about ways to improve.Go to your local airport and watch the exchanges between the customer and the ticket service agent to get a better idea of what your customer service role will be.Take any notes you find helpful and observe what the agent does.If you are traveling by plane, it is a good idea to observe the gate agent while waiting for the flight to board.If they are free, ask them for any tips on the position and look closely at any interaction they have with passengers.Roleplay with your friends about airline gate agent interactions.
Step 7: You should be prepared to work odd hours.
Many airlines work around the clock.Late nights, early mornings, weekends, and holidays may be required of an airline gate agent.
Step 8: You have to apply for the job.
You can apply for jobs on the websites of some airlines.You can either mail the application or drop it off at the airport.Make sure your resume is the best it can be for the airline gate agent position.If you are applying in person, dress nicely and be respectful.You should clearly state your interests in your cover letter.
Step 9: Prepare for the interview.
Before the interview, learn all you can about the specific position of the airline.You should be prepared to answer questions about dealing with angry customers.What makes you interested in this position?What are your strengths?What are your weaknesses?Tell me about a time when you had to use customer service skills.
Step 10: You need to complete a training program.
Once you have been hired as an airline gate agent, you will have to complete a training program that will teach you how to work for your employer.Additional training may be required by the FAA and your local airport.You will be ready for your first day at the gate when you have successfully completed your training program.