Your lead can make your job a lot easier, but only if you can talk to them. Here's how to ask for what you need, raise problems and keep things professional.
Your lead or supervisor has a big effect on your workday. They help plan the operation, answer questions, approve some changes and deal with problems as they come up. A good working relationship with your lead makes everything easier, from getting a question answered to getting help when life gets complicated. But many crew members, especially new ones, aren't sure how or when to speak up. Here's a simple guide.
Timing matters. If your lead is in the middle of turning a late flight, it's not the time to ask about next month's schedule. Unless it's urgent or about safety, wait for a calmer moment: before the shift starts, during a slow period or at the end of the day. Asking "Do you have a minute when things slow down?" shows respect for their time.
Leads are busy. The clearer your request, the easier it is to help you. Instead of "I'm having trouble with my schedule," try "I have a family appointment on the 14th. Is there any way to leave two hours early if I find someone to cover?" Know what you're asking for, and if you have a possible solution, bring it.
Your lead may not be the one who approves every request. Some things go through scheduling, HR or other departments, and some are set by your contract or company policy. If you're not sure, ask: "Who should I talk to about this?" That's a good question, not a dumb one. Learning how things work at your station saves you time later.
If you see something unsafe, like damaged equipment, an injury, ice on the ramp or a coworker who isn't okay, tell your lead right away. Safety concerns never need to wait for a good moment. Use your station's reporting process too, so there's a record. Speaking up about safety is part of the job, not causing trouble.
If you're going to be late, can't make a shift or got hurt on the job, tell your lead as soon as you can, using your station's official process. Early notice helps them plan, and it protects you. Our guide to what to do when you can't make your shift and getting to work on time have more details.
Everyone has bad days at work. If you're upset about something, take a breath before you talk. Stick to the facts: what happened, how it affects you and what you'd like to see happen. Avoid complaining about coworkers in front of others. If the conversation gets heated, it's okay to say, "Can we talk about this later?"
If you've talked with your lead and the problem isn't solved, or if the problem involves your lead, you have other places to go. Depending on where you work, that could be a manager, HR, an employee hotline or a union representative. Check your contract or employee handbook to learn your options.
The best time to build a good relationship with your lead is before you need a favor. Show up on time, do good work, follow through on trades and be easy to work with. Our guide to being the coworker everyone wants to trade with covers the same habits. When you do need help, you'll already have their trust.
Many schedule problems can be solved with a trade before you ever need to ask for an exception. TakeMyShift sends your post straight to coworkers in your same position at your base, and a private chat opens when someone picks it up. It's free. Read the app guide.
← Previous: Surviving the Summer Travel Rush · More crew tips →