How to Apply the Fighter Pilot Success Formula to Your Career

Fighter pilots have an awesome responsibility. It takes a unique person to become one. The personality style usually includes large doses of self-confidence, a can-do attitude, high self-esteem and a willingness to face and overcome challenges. Defeat is not an option, for they know it could mean death. Successful executives have similar characteristics. They are entrepreneurial, self-confident, motivated, and willing to risk failure. Defeat is not an option for them either, because it means death of a career. This article outlines the 7 step success formula.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 

   Plan before doing anything. Successful fighter pilots plan before going on a mission. You should develop a plan or process for how you will succeed, including contingencies for unanticipated events or situations.

2. 

   Test before implementation. Check out your resources and put your project or new career idea through a test-run (pilot program).

3. 

   Understand the extent of your resources. Fighter pilots know what they need, how much they need and when they will need to replace things. Take time to thoroughly evaluate the quantity and quality of the resources you will need to realize your career goals.

4. 

   Build in some “wiggle” room. Expect that your career plans will change at a moment's notice. Be prepared to respond quickly and make course corrections as necessary.

5. 

   Train…train…train. Fighter pilots train before a fight. They know they are capable of winning. Executives must engage in lifelong learning and skill enhancement. It’s not enough to be skilled at what you do, you must develop a competitive edge to your skills, and constantly look for ways to increase them.

6. 

   Assess the competition. Perform a SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats). For career success, determine your areas of vulnerability and develop plans to overcome them.

7. 

   Know your own capabilities. Like the fighter pilot, the successful executive must be capable of winning. Consider your potential, competence and aptitude for success. Determine if you truly want to win; then prepare to do so.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the resources below to maximize your career success.

Resources

• Answers to Your Questions about Job & Career
• Learn How to Soar to the Top in Your Career
• Take Your Career to the Next Level

[EnlightenedPen]

on 6/29/2008 I love the fighter pilot comparison

[century4]

on 6/16/2008 I gave this article a five star rating. Wonderful strategy.