So, you're curious about what it's like to work for Southwest Airlines? Excellent choice! Southwest isn't just another airline; it's renowned for its unique culture, emphasis on its "People," and a spirit that's quite unlike any other in the aviation industry. If you've ever observed their lively flight attendants or heard about their legendary customer service, you've witnessed a direct reflection of their internal environment.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through what it truly means to be a Southwest "Coheart" (their term for employees!), from the celebrated company culture to the tangible benefits and potential career paths. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Discovering the "Southwest Spirit" - Is it for YOU?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's address the most fundamental question: Do you align with the Southwest "Heart" philosophy? Southwest Airlines prides itself on a culture built on positivity, teamwork, and a genuine desire to serve. They're looking for individuals who embody their values of a "servant's heart," a "Warrior Spirit," and a "Fun-LUVing Attitude."
-
Self-Reflection Time: Think about your own professional values.
-
Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?
-
Are you a natural problem-solver with a positive outlook, even under pressure?
-
Do you genuinely enjoy interacting with people and going the extra mile to make someone's day?
-
Is teamwork something you value deeply?
-
Are you ready to embrace a workplace where fun and humor are often part of the daily routine?
-
If you answered with a resounding "Yes!" to these questions, then the "Southwest Spirit" might just be calling your name!
 |
| How Is Working For Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Core of Southwest's Culture
Southwest's culture is often cited as a key differentiator and a major reason why employees stay. It's not just marketing jargon; it's a deeply ingrained philosophy that impacts everything from hiring to daily operations.
Sub-heading: People-First Philosophy
Southwest's founder, Herb Kelleher, famously said, "Take good care of your employees, and your employees will take good care of your customers." This sentiment remains at the heart of the company. Employees are referred to as "Cohearts" and are treated with respect, concern, and care. This translates into a work environment where:
-
Support for one another is highly encouraged.
-
Employees are empowered to be themselves and bring their unique perspectives to work.
-
There's a strong emphasis on celebrating milestones and supporting each other during challenging times.
Sub-heading: A Culture of Caring and Fun
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
Beyond the professional, Southwest embraces a vibrant and engaging workplace. You'll often hear about:
-
Spirit Parties and Chili Cookoffs – opportunities for employees to connect and have fun.
-
A focus on recognizing contributions through platforms like SWAG Points, which can be redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, or Rapid Rewards® points.
-
The "Fun-LUVing Attitude" isn't just for customers; it's deeply embedded in how employees interact with each other and approach their work.
Step 3: Exploring the Benefits and Compensation
Working for Southwest isn't just about the culture; it comes with a competitive package of benefits designed to support employees' financial, physical, and mental well-being.
Sub-heading: Financial Rewards
Southwest offers attractive financial benefits that contribute to long-term security:
-
Competitive Pay: While salaries vary by role and experience, Southwest aims to offer competitive wages within the industry. For instance, First Officers can start around $127,680 annually, with Captains reaching up to $343,680. Flight Attendants average around $92,245 annually, though this can vary significantly by location and seniority. Aircraft Mechanics typically earn an average of $67,131 per year.
-
Retirement Savings Plan: Employees are enrolled in a 401(k) plan with a generous dollar-for-dollar Company match contribution.
-
Profit Sharing: Southwest was a pioneer in the airline industry for offering profit sharing. Employees share in the company's success, with these awards often funded directly into their Retirement Savings Plan accounts. This can be a substantial bonus, reflecting the collective effort of the workforce.
-
Employee Stock Purchase Plan: After six months of continuous service, employees can purchase Southwest common stock at a 10% discount through payroll deductions.
Sub-heading: Travel Privileges
Perhaps one of the most coveted perks of working for an airline:
-
Free, Unlimited Travel Privileges: Employees and eligible dependents (spouse/partner, children, parents) enjoy free, unlimited space-available travel on Southwest Airlines.
-
Discounts and Pass Agreements: Beyond Southwest flights, employees can access pass agreements with other airlines and discounts on rental cars, hotels, theme parks, and more. This significantly enhances personal travel opportunities.
Sub-heading: Health and Well-being
Southwest prioritizes the holistic well-being of its Cohearts:
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
-
Comprehensive Health Programs: Programs are available to support the physical, mental, and financial health of employees and their families.
-
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Through "Clear Skies," employees and their family members have access to free counseling sessions and work/life balance tools.
-
Time Off: Employees receive time off for personal use, vacation, or caring for themselves or loved ones, with the amount varying by workgroup and years of service.
-
Additional Benefits: These can include adoption assistance, paid adoption leave, parental leave, child and elder care resources, committed partner benefits, and various insurance options.
Step 4: Navigating Career Development and Growth
Southwest Airlines is committed to fostering career growth and provides various avenues for employees to expand their skills and advance within the company.
Sub-heading: Internal Opportunities and Training
Southwest encourages internal mobility and provides resources for employees to build their careers:
-
Quality Training and Development: The company invests in training programs to drive progress, improve retention, and set employees up for success.
-
Diverse Career Paths: Southwest offers a wide array of roles, from customer service and operations to technology, finance, and flight operations. Employees are empowered to create career paths that align with their goals and lifestyles.
-
Mentorship and Networking: Opportunities for networking and developing key professional skills are often available, helping employees connect with colleagues and learn from experienced professionals.
 |
Sub-heading: Specialized Programs
For specific career aspirations, Southwest has dedicated programs:
-
Destination 225°® Program: For those aspiring to become pilots, this program offers various pathways to reach the right seat of a Southwest aircraft.
-
College Internships: Southwest offers highly sought-after internships, allowing students to gain business experience and immerse themselves in the company's culture, often with the perk of free travel.
-
Technology Direct College Hire Program: This program targets individuals early in their career development, offering opportunities within the Technology Department.
Step 5: The Application and Hiring Process
So, you're ready to join the Southwest family? Here's a general overview of what to expect during the hiring process:
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Sub-heading: Online Application and Assessment
-
Visit the Careers Website: The first step is to visit the official Southwest Airlines careers website (careers.southwestair.com) to search for open positions.
-
Submit Your Application: Complete the online application and submit your resume. Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to the specific role, especially focusing on customer service, communication, and teamwork.
-
Online Assessment: Qualified applicants may be invited to take an online assessment, which could include situational judgment tests to evaluate decision-making skills related to customer service and safety.
Sub-heading: Interview Rounds
-
Phone/Video Interview: An initial interview with a recruiter or hiring manager to discuss your background, interest in the role, and general understanding of the airline industry.
-
In-Person Interviews: If you progress, prepare for one or more rounds of in-person interviews, which may involve:
-
Hiring Managers and Team Members from the relevant department.
-
Subject Matter Experts (e.g., experienced pilots or mechanics for technical roles).
-
HR Representatives.
-
-
Behavioral Questions: Be prepared to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your problem-solving skills and past achievements, particularly in customer service.
Sub-heading: Background Check and Onboarding
-
Background Check and Drug Test: Upon receiving a conditional offer, standard procedure includes a thorough background check and a drug test.
-
Training: New employees are required to complete several weeks of training covering customer service, safety procedures, and flight operations, specific to their role.
-
Welcome Aboard! Once all steps are cleared, you'll receive a formal job offer and complete onboarding paperwork, officially becoming a Southwest Coheart!
The interview process can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the role's complexity and the number of candidates. Patience is a virtue!
Step 6: What Employees Are Saying
While the official narrative paints a glowing picture, it's always insightful to hear from current and former employees. Generally, feedback on working at Southwest Airlines is positive, though like any large organization, there are areas for improvement.
Sub-heading: The Positives
-
Strong Company Culture: Many employees consistently praise the "family-like" atmosphere, supportive colleagues ("Cohearts"), and the genuine care shown by the company towards its people. The fun-loving environment is frequently highlighted.
-
Excellent Benefits: Free flight benefits are a huge draw and a significant perk for many. The 401(k) match and profit-sharing programs are also highly valued.
-
Work-Life Balance (for some roles): While some roles, particularly in operations, can have irregular hours, many employees report a good work-life balance and flexibility.
-
Stability: Southwest is often seen as a stable career choice with a strong financial record.
-
Opportunities for Growth: Internal movement and development programs are appreciated by those looking to advance their careers.
Sub-heading: Areas for Improvement (Constructive Feedback)
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
-
Compensation: Some employees, particularly in certain workgroups, have expressed a desire for more frequent compensation increases to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
-
Management Challenges: While many praise leadership, some reviews mention a need for improvement in management consistency, accountability, and addressing issues like favoritism or harassment in certain locations.
-
Growth Opportunities (in some areas): While career development exists, some employees feel there can be limited growth opportunities in specific roles or that promotions are sometimes based more on relationships than performance.
-
Union Environment: For some, navigating the union environment can present challenges.
Overall, the sentiment remains largely positive, with 87% of employee reviews on Comparably being positive. The Customer Support department, for example, reports 97% positive reviews, highlighting a generally good experience.
10 Related FAQs: How to...
Here are some quick answers to common questions about working at Southwest Airlines:
How to get a job at Southwest Airlines? You can apply directly through their official careers website (careers.southwestair.com). Tailor your resume to the specific job, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
How to prepare for a Southwest Airlines interview? Research the company culture, values, and the specific role. Be ready to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method, emphasizing customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
How to become a Southwest Airlines pilot? Southwest has a "Destination 225°® Program" that offers various pathways for aspiring pilots, from collegiate partnerships to military veteran programs. Check their careers site for details.
How to become a Southwest Airlines flight attendant? Look for Flight Attendant job postings on their careers website. The process typically involves an online application, assessments, and multiple interview rounds. Strong customer service skills are crucial.
How to get flight benefits working for Southwest Airlines? As a Southwest employee, you and eligible dependents typically receive free, unlimited space-available travel privileges on Southwest Airlines, and often discounts with partner airlines, hotels, and rental car companies.
How to move up in Southwest Airlines? Southwest emphasizes internal development. Seek out training opportunities, network with colleagues, express your interest in growth to your managers, and look for internal job postings that align with your career aspirations.
How to get hired as a mechanic at Southwest Airlines? Look for Aircraft Mechanic or Technician positions on their careers site. You'll generally need relevant certifications (e.g., A&P license) and experience, followed by the standard application and interview process.
How to demonstrate the "Southwest Spirit" during the application process? Emphasize your positive attitude, strong work ethic, willingness to help others, sense of humor, and customer-centric approach in your resume, cover letter, and interviews. Show that you are a "People person."
How to learn more about Southwest Airlines' company culture? Visit their careers website, read employee testimonials and reviews on sites like Comparably and Glassdoor, and observe Southwest employees in action at the airport. You'll quickly get a feel for their unique atmosphere.
How to find remote work opportunities at Southwest Airlines? While many roles are on-site due to the nature of airline operations, some corporate or administrative positions may offer hybrid or remote work options. Check individual job descriptions on their careers site for details on work flexibility.
 |
