Are you ready to embark on an exciting career journey with one of the most beloved airlines in the world? Southwest Airlines isn't just about flying planes; it's about connecting people, fostering a unique culture of LUV, and offering incredible opportunities for growth. If you've ever dreamt of being part of a team that prioritizes both its employees and its customers, then getting hired at Southwest could be your next big adventure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from tailoring your resume to acing your interview. Let's get started!
How to Get Hired at Southwest Airlines: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Southwest Airlines is renowned for its exceptional company culture, its focus on employee satisfaction, and its legendary customer service. This means their hiring process is designed to find individuals who not only possess the necessary skills but also embody the "Southwest Spirit."
Step 1: Discovering Your Perfect Fit at Southwest
The first and most crucial step is to figure out what role truly excites you at Southwest Airlines. Have you ever imagined yourself soaring through the skies as a Flight Attendant, or perhaps keeping the planes in top shape as an Aviation Mechanic? Maybe you're a whiz with numbers and could thrive in a corporate finance role, or you love helping people and would be an amazing Customer Service Representative.
Take a moment right now and think: What are your skills, your passions, and what kind of work environment makes you feel energized? Southwest offers a diverse range of career paths, including:
Flight Operations: Pilots, Flight Attendants
Customer Service and Support: Customer Service Representatives, Ramp Agents, Operations Agents
Maintenance and Engineering: Aircraft Mechanics, Technicians
Operations and Logistics: Ground Operations, Crew Scheduling
Corporate Careers: Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, IT, Legal, etc.
Once you have a general idea, head over to the official Southwest Airlines Careers website (careers.southwestair.com). This is your primary resource for all job openings. Use their search filters to narrow down positions by location, job type, and keywords.
Step 2: Crafting an ATS-Friendly and Southwest-Centric Resume
Your resume is your first impression, and for a large company like Southwest, it needs to get past the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before it even reaches a human recruiter.
Sub-heading: Understanding the ATS Challenge
An ATS is software that scans resumes for keywords, formatting, and relevance to the job description. If your resume isn't optimized, it might be automatically rejected, regardless of your qualifications.
Sub-heading: Key Tips for Your Southwest Resume
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application: Do NOT use a generic resume. For every position you apply to, carefully read the job description and incorporate keywords and phrases directly from it into your resume. If the description mentions "customer empathy," make sure your resume highlights experiences where you demonstrated customer empathy.
Use a Clean, Simple Format: Stick to a reverse-chronological format, which lists your most recent experience first. Avoid complex graphics, elaborate fonts, or excessive colors. ATS systems prefer simple, professional layouts. Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and ensure the font size is at least 11 points.
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills: Emphasize experiences that align with Southwest's values and the specific requirements of the role. For example, if you're applying for a customer-facing role, highlight your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and any experience with diverse populations.
Quantify Your Achievements: Instead of just listing responsibilities, quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. For example, instead of "Managed customer inquiries," say "Resolved an average of 50 customer inquiries per day, increasing customer satisfaction by 15%."
Spell Out Acronyms: If you use industry-specific acronyms, spell them out on their first mention, followed by the acronym in parentheses (e.g., "Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)").
Proofread Meticulously: A single typo can make a bad impression. Proofread your resume multiple times, and consider having a trusted friend or mentor review it as well.
Step 3: Conquering the Online Application and Assessments
Once your resume is polished, it's time to complete the online application. This often involves more than just uploading your resume.
Sub-heading: The Application Form
Be Thorough and Accurate: Fill out all sections of the application completely and accurately. Any discrepancies between your application and resume could raise red flags.
Provide Detailed Information: Don't just rely on your resume. The application form often asks for specific details about your employment history, education, and skills. Provide as much detail as requested.
Sub-heading: Online Assessments (If Applicable)
Many roles at Southwest, particularly entry-level and high-volume positions, require candidates to complete online assessments. These can include:
Situational Judgment Tests (SJTs): These present you with work-related scenarios and ask how you would respond. Southwest uses SJTs to assess your problem-solving skills, decision-making, and alignment with their customer-centric culture. Think about Southwest's values (LUV, Hospitality, Safety) when choosing your responses.
Verbal Reasoning Tests: These evaluate your ability to understand and interpret written information.
Numerical Reasoning Tests: These assess your ability to analyze and interpret numerical data.
Personality Assessments: These help Southwest understand your work style and how well you'd fit into their team. Be authentic in your responses, but also keep in mind the qualities Southwest values, such as a positive attitude, teamwork, and a "Servant's Heart."
Remember, these assessments are not about "right or wrong" answers in every case, but about understanding your approach and fit.
Step 4: Acing the Interview Stages
If your application and assessments are successful, you'll likely be invited for an interview. Southwest's interview process can involve multiple stages.
Sub-heading: The One-Way Video Interview
This is an increasingly common first-round interview. You'll be given a set of questions and a limited time to record your answers.
Practice Makes Perfect: Practice answering common interview questions in front of a mirror or with a friend. Get comfortable speaking directly to a camera.
Dress Professionally: Even though it's virtual, dress as you would for an in-person interview.
Find a Quiet, Well-Lit Space: Ensure your background is clutter-free and professional.
Show Your Personality: Southwest wants to see the authentic you! Don't be afraid to let your enthusiasm and positive attitude shine through. Southwest's culture is all about fun and personality, so embrace it while remaining professional.
Sub-heading: The Phone Interview
A recruiter might conduct a phone interview to further screen candidates.
Be Prepared to Discuss Your Resume: They will likely ask about your work history and how your skills align with the job.
Highlight Southwest's Values: Be ready to articulate why you want to work for Southwest specifically and how your values align with theirs. Research their mission, vision, and core values.
Prepare Questions to Ask: This shows your engagement and interest. Ask about the team, the daily responsibilities, or opportunities for growth.
Sub-heading: The In-Person Interview (Panel or Individual)
This is often the final and most critical stage. You might interview with a hiring manager, a team, or a panel of interviewers.
Research the Company Extensively: Go beyond the basics. Understand Southwest's history, its unique business model (point-to-point, no baggage fees, open seating), and recent news.
Understand the Role Inside Out: Be able to articulate precisely what the job entails and how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate.
Prepare Behavioral Questions: Southwest often uses behavioral questions ("Tell me about a time when...") to understand your past behavior as a predictor of future performance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and concisely.
Show Enthusiasm and Energy: Southwest is known for its energetic and positive workforce. Project enthusiasm, smile, and make eye contact.
Be Yourself, But Your Best Self: While authenticity is valued, remember it's still a professional setting. Balance your personality with professionalism.
Dress to Impress: Business professional attire is always recommended for in-person interviews.
Send a Thank-You Note: A personalized thank-you email or handwritten note within 24 hours of your interview can leave a lasting positive impression. Reiterate your interest and briefly mention something specific you discussed.
Step 5: The Final Hurdle: Background Check and Drug Test
If you receive a conditional job offer, it will typically be contingent upon successfully passing a background check and drug test.
Background Check: This usually involves verifying your employment history, education, criminal record, and sometimes driving records. Be honest throughout the application process, as any discrepancies can lead to the withdrawal of your offer.
Drug Test: Southwest, like all airlines, has a strict drug-free workplace policy. You will be required to undergo a drug screening.
Step 6: Onboarding and Training
Congratulations! If you've made it this far, you're likely on your way to becoming a Southwest Airlines Employee. New hires typically undergo a comprehensive training program.
Embrace the Training: Whether it's flight attendant training in Dallas, or specialized training for mechanics or customer service agents, approach it with an open mind and a commitment to learning. Perfect attendance and strong performance are usually required during training.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture: Southwest's culture of "LUV" is a huge part of its success. From day one, you'll be immersed in this unique environment. Be open to connecting with your new colleagues and embracing the spirit of the company.
By following these steps, doing your research, and showcasing your genuine enthusiasm and alignment with Southwest's values, you'll significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job with this incredible airline!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to tailor my resume for a specific Southwest Airlines job posting?
To tailor your resume, carefully read the job description and identify key skills, keywords, and responsibilities. Then, rephrase your existing bullet points to incorporate those exact terms and highlight experiences that directly demonstrate your proficiency in those areas. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
How to prepare for Southwest Airlines' online assessments?
Research the types of assessments typically used for the role you're applying for (e.g., Situational Judgment Tests, Verbal/Numerical Reasoning). Look for practice tests online to familiarize yourself with the format and timing. For SJTs, consider Southwest's core values and how you would respond in a customer-centric and teamwork-oriented manner.
How to showcase "Southwest Spirit" in my interview?
Showcase the "Southwest Spirit" by demonstrating enthusiasm, a positive attitude, a customer-first mindset, and a willingness to be a team player. Share stories that highlight your sense of humor, adaptability, and dedication to service, aligning with their "LUV" culture.
How to research Southwest Airlines' company culture effectively?
Visit the "Our People and Culture" section on the Southwest Airlines website (
How to follow up after a Southwest Airlines interview?
Send a personalized thank-you email to each interviewer within 24 hours of your interview. Reiterate your interest in the position, express gratitude for their time, and mention a specific point or discussion from the interview to make your note memorable.
How to address employment gaps on my Southwest Airlines application?
If you have employment gaps, be prepared to address them honestly and concisely. Focus on what you did during those periods (e.g., education, volunteer work, personal development, family responsibilities) and how those experiences still contribute to your skills and readiness for the role.
How to stand out as a candidate for a Flight Attendant position at Southwest Airlines?
For a Flight Attendant role, emphasize your exceptional customer service skills, safety consciousness, adaptability, and ability to handle stressful situations with grace. Highlight any experience in service industries, public speaking, or emergency response. Be prepared to showcase your personality and warmth.
How to prepare for a Southwest Airlines pilot interview?
Pilot interviews at Southwest are rigorous. Focus on demonstrating your technical proficiency, leadership skills, decision-making under pressure, and strong adherence to safety protocols. Research Southwest's fleet (primarily Boeing 737s) and operational philosophy. Networking with current Southwest pilots can also be beneficial.
How to find out about new job openings at Southwest Airlines?
Regularly check the Southwest Airlines Careers website (careers.southwestair.com). You can also join their Talent Community to receive email notifications when new positions that match your interests become available. Following their official LinkedIn page can also provide updates.
How to ensure my application passes the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) for Southwest Airlines?
To ensure your application passes the ATS, use keywords from the job description, choose a simple and clean resume format (reverse-chronological is best), use standard fonts, and avoid excessive graphics or complex tables. Proofread for any errors and ensure all sections are complete.
