How being a helicopter pilot can teach you some things about business

Some of the things you learn in the helicopter world translate surprisingly well into the business world.

Over the years I’ve noticed that many of the same lessons that keep you safe in the air can also help you succeed on the ground.

So I thought I’d start with the three questions I’ve been asked most often in my +25 years of helicopter flying…

1. “You must have the best job in the world…?”

After flying all over Europe — and beyond — I can confidently say I probably have the best office window on the planet.
So, the short answer is:

Yes. I do.

But while you’re sitting there enjoying the spectacular views and listening to my commentary about what we’re flying over, my world looks a little different.

Behind the scenes I’m constantly scanning instruments, checking that all systems are normal, and making sure there are no unusual noises, vibrations, smells or warning signs.

At the same time I’m looking outside for potential threats—weather building ahead, birds, drones, or other aircraft—while also monitoring my position, following the map, listening to the radio and talking to air traffic control.

And somewhere in the middle of all that… I must also try to remember to keep my passengers happy.

Which leads to one of the first lessons you learn in both helicopters and business:

People experience the same situation very differently.

While one person is enjoying the view, someone else is managing the complexity that makes that view possible.