EDITOR’S CORNER
Advice for Life From the Flight Crew
Jean M. Neubeck, CPG-11438
No, I am not a former stewardess, but I wanted to become one once – the lure of places far from home, the adventures and all that. Then I wanted to become a pilot; heck, it was the ‘70s and women wanted “more.” Alas, there was no pilot license for this girl. But I still recall my first plane ride and peering over the rows of heads to watch the safety spiel. Enough about me, but I’ll get back to the pilot and that flight attendant shortly…
This TPG issue focuses on student geologists. You are the future of our profession. I had chosen solid themes for my column; being open to opportunities and maintaining one’s technical skills. After reading the articles by others I find that they have conveyed similar advice very well; in fact, better than I might have phrased the same thoughts. So I strongly urge all of you - students, new professionals, and seasoned geologists alike, to read their pieces. The authors have put forth much sound and sage advice that we all can apply.
Now that I’m done promoting others’ very practical and realistic advice, let’s get back to the flight crew. Sitting on planes recently got me thinking that air- line advice can be pretty philosophical.
Greetings, I’ll be your Captain today…
Respect your boss or supervisor. Bosses will change and you may become the boss someday. That goes for your coworkers, clients, and all others with whom you interact. And you never know, maybe they’ll help you some day - then again, maybe not depending on your attitude.
And don’t be intimidated (for too long). The pilot looks confident and competent in that uniform. Have some confidence (or fake a little). That instrument panel sure is overwhelming if you scan it all at once. A pilot taught me to look at each gauge individually - that one’s the air
speed, that one’s for altitude; hey, I can understand it now. It’s a lot easier if you break up a complex task into discreet objectives and steps.
Please notify us if you cannot perform the duties in the emergency exit seat…
Your employer, client, family and oth-
ers WANT you to succeed. Ask for help, and mentor or help others when you can. Everyone has something to contribute. Sometimes it seems that everything goes wrong. Follow your supervisor’s lead, remain calm and focus so you can function. Don’t let ‘em see you sweat, but don’t be foolish. Seek others’ advice when the situation arises, or well before that point if explosives are involved.
In the unlikely event of a water landing…
Of course, you cannot be prepared for every contingency that life will con- tinuously throw at you. But you can be mentally prepared for the inevitable changes. You bought a ticket to Paris but landed in Brussels? Embrace Plan B, do that “different” job with a smile, accept that transfer, mourn that loss and learn, move on or try another strategy.
Make sure you have all your belongs before you exit…
Always perform quality work, then proof read/check it (again). Learn to accept constructive criticism. Be graceful when compliments come your way, but be sure to share the credit. Use both posi- tive and negative feedback to improve your performance.
Your seat cushion can be used as a floatation device…
Think outside the box, learn new skills especially by helping or watching others. Combine your outside skills with geol- ogy; GIS, art, technology, etc. Exercise your brain regularly, and always check technology against your geologic sense and judgment.
Put your own oxygen mask on first…
“Do Your Job!” You cannot help the team or someone else until you under- stand and complete your job. Even at entry level, your job is important, or I assure you, they would not be paying you. Philosophically, putting on your oxygen also means you must be mentally and sufficiently fit to help others. Take care to be well-rounded, stable, healthy, and engage in activities outside work.
Carry on baggage only…
Only items that fit in the overhead bin or under your seat, please. Everyone makes mistakes, loses a job, has a bad experience(s). Use your critical thinking to evaluate your behavior, attitude and emotions, what went wrong, and how you can do perform better next time. Don’t use someone else’s behavior or words as excuses. You are a GEOLOGIST and want to be accepted for your ability and talent. You will encounter discrimina- tion, adversity, politics, excuses, exter- nal fault – don’t fall for it. Assess what you can control or influence; accept and learn. You may stand out from others, but be a geologist first. This is my favor- ite advice and it has served me well for more than 32 years.
Thank you for choosing our air- line…
There are a thousand qualified geolo- gists, consultants, researchers, manag- ers, etc. who could replace you. They are actively applying, marketing, and researching ways to land your job. They’re waiting to hear from an employ- er, client, or business associate that “the last person didn’t work out,” so don’t let them be referring to you. Be grateful for your opportunities. Remember to thank your clients, co-workers, employer, con- tractors, suppliers, and even regulators when appropriate.
Now fasten your seat belt and get ready for take-off.
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