What does a manager and a Pilot have in common when it comes to HR advising? 👩🏻‍✈️

This is something I shared inside HRHQ last week in a training called ‘Advising with Authority’.

During the training, I drew a comparison between HR and the role of an Air Traffic Controller

For the majority of the time the pilot is in flight and in complete control of the aircraft. However, at times, especially during take off and landing, they need a little support 🛬

The Pilot cannot always know and see everything, especially when they are in unknown territory or experiencing difficult conditions.

In these situations, the Pilot relies on Air Traffic Controllers for instruction and guidance

During landing, the Controllers;

✈️monitor the aircrafts position
✈️track other aircrafts
✈️coordinate the landing sequence
✈️assess the runway conditions
✈️monitor weather conditions
✈️review risks
✈️resolve conflicts
✈️assess factors that may affect the landing

They then use this information to advise the pilot on what they need to do to land safely

The more turbulent or risky the landing, the more guidance the pilot will need 😓

Ultimately though, the pilot retains authority over the aircraft’s operation and decision-making

(aaand will usually get the credit from all the relieved passengers too😜)

So, the next time you find yourself guiding a manager through a little turbulence, remember: they’re the ones in the captain’s seat, and your role is to guide them to achieve a safe, smooth and secure landing.