Customer Service
5 Reasons Why Exceptional Customer Service Should Be a Part of Your Game Plan for SuccessCustomer Service Survival Tips: Don't Leave Home Without 'Em!
The Unruly Passenger: How to Handle Confrontation With Poise
Airplane Etiquette™
Traveler's Jetiquette™ GuideGood Manners Count at 41,000 Feet, Too
Air Travel Grooming Tips: Why Less is More
Airplane Etiquette: Keeping the Skies Friendly
Cruising in Comfort
The First-Time Flyer: 5 Ways to Comfort a Nervous PassengerOvernight Traveler: Tips for Maintaining a Comfortable Flight
Snacks on a Plane: Easy Tricks to Ward Off Hunger in the Sky
Life on the Fly
Travel Skincare Must-HavesStaying Completely Connected While Traveling
Traveling With Children
Flying With Children, a.k.a. Surviving Terror in the SkiesKid-Friendly Travel Tips: 4 Ways to Keep Little Hands Busy
Traveling With Kids 101
Service Should Be a Part of Your Game Plan for Success
by Gailen DavidSo you’ve worked in customer service for some time now, and perhaps you’re experiencing the inevitable disillusionment that goes with plastering a perma-smile on your face, resisting the urge to trip small children who dart about as you’re trying to balance a tray of hot liquids, and generally feeling unappreciated for all your hard work and dedication.
Before you haul off and quit, remember that the customer service industry needs your brand of talent. It’s getting more and more difficult to find people willing to go the extra mile and provide stellar service. So, if you’ve got the experience and the skill, use these to your advantage!
Excellent customer service is essentially good press for your corporation.
Did you ever stop to think as a customer service professional, the power lies in you? You are the “voice” of the company, the megaphone that can make or break business. Everything that happens between the company and the customer filters through your words and actions. Your actions leave lasting impression and are so important to how a customer feels about doing business with your company. You may be the person a customer remembers when considering doing business with your company again. That’s powerful!
Excellent customer service sets the tone for a positive relationship with consumers.
Think about it: what would the reaction be if you approach a customer with a wrinkled brow and down-turned mouth and say “Yeah, what can I get you?” Think you might get some looks of disapproval, or maybe a customer who is now ready to “take you down a peg” by being purposely needy and annoying? On the other hand, what if you open your dialogue with a warm “How are you today?” Trust me, because I’ve been there: it’s all in the attitude! There’s no denying that “moods” are contagious. If you approach every customer with a genuine desire to please, no matter how unpleasant they may look, I guarantee that you’ll diffuse any hostility—and that means an easier job for you. As my dad always says, you catch more bees with honey than vinegar, and it’s true in the customer service industry as much as it is anywhere else. Excellent customer service has far-reaching effects.
Imagine someone going out of his or her way to accommodate a customer in an extra special way. The customer is so impressed that they send a heartfelt testimonial and spread the word about how well they were treated. The news industry catches wind of this kind gesture, and the company receives tons of positive press, all because of this single kind act. Now imagine that the person behind the gesture of benevolence is you. When you take the extra time to see your customers NOT as the enemy, but as real people with genuine feelings, everything changes. These people are investing their money and they would love to be treated not as numbers, but as human beings. Imagine the huge feeling of satisfaction of being able to make a difference for that one person? Imagine the effect that ripples outward as the word spreads about something kind that YOU did? There is truly nothing more fulfilling and it is this single moment that makes working in customer service so worthwhile.
Excellent customer service can foster great relations with your coworkers.
Excellent customer service can foster great relations with your coworkers.Excellent customer service leads to healthy relations and greater cooperation among workers... a win-win for everyone, including the company, the employees, and the customers. Why is this? Because when everyone is working toward the same goal, things get accomplished much faster and with far less resistance. Every team member begins to view his or her role as unique and essential to the long-term vision. People begin using their heads to solve problems, working together as a team, performing to the best of their ability, and sharing in the joys of a job well done. The customers are happier because their needs are being met. They feel as though they are understood, attended to, and treated with kindness and respect. The employers are happier because they’re pulling in more revenue. The company outperforms and outshines the competition. This ultimately comes back to you in the form of less customer complaints, more praise, easier and more pleasurable work, and a bigger paycheck. There is nothing better than to know this feeling at your daily customer service job. What steps can you take to begin contributing to the greater good at your customer service job?
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Customer Service Survival Tips: Don't Leave Home Without 'Em!
by Gailen DavidLet’s face it, people are people and when you work in customer service, you get a mixed bag of personalities, attitudes, and perceptions. A simple smile or word of thanks from a guest can make you feel on top of the world... but a complaint, slight, or frown of disapproval can have you running for the therapist’s couch. Unfortunately, the customer can have the power to make or break our professional experience, if we let them. The trick is not to let them. Here are five ways to keep your cool when customers are getting hot under the collar.
Remember That It's Not Personal.
It doesn’t matter if you work for one of the top-rated companies, or just received the Employee of the Month award. Sometimes circumstances beyond our control can mess up what otherwise would have been perfect service. So when customers come at us in angry tones, we have to remember that it’s the situation and not us. Many who work in customer service can let a “bad day at work” take its toll on their self-esteem, feeling misunderstood, unappreciated and sometimes even downright unloved. Know that the customer is expecting to receive what she paid for, not to judge you as a person. In the end, all you have to do is your job—to the best of your ability. Beyond this, you always have your friends and family for unconditional love and acceptance!Keep Emotions in Check.
Every person has two sides of their brain that they can choose to apply during certain situations. You have your emotional side, dealing in impulses, feelings and creativity, and your logical side, which wants to categorize and reason. Sometimes an unhappy customer or workmate who is making things tough for you can stimulate the emotional side. You maybe want to yell and scream, go out and punch something, or perhaps plot subtle revenge against those the people who are contributing to your unhappiness. When emotions surface, remember that there are better ways to handle the situation. Keep your cool, and save up that tension for later when you can tear up the tennis court or blow off steam on the stepper machine. For now, tap the amazing power of your reasoning ability to come up with a solution that satisfies everyone. The outcome will be constructive instead of destructive, and your coworkers will notice the change in you!View Each "Situation" As a Challenge.
Do you enjoy games and exercises that challenge your intellect and stimulate your problem-solving ability? Do you wish you had more time for activities such as crosswords, scavenger hunts, brain-teasers, and logic puzzles? Believe it or not, there are myriad opportunities at your everyday customer service job to flex your mental muscle and develop your talent for thinking strategically. Once you begin thinking of each work day as a unique series of problems to tackle and solve, you’ll start looking forward to your profession and to giving your very best in situations where your customers are expecting you to come through for them. Then, if things “get ugly” you’ll be ready with the confidence, positive attitude and know-how to set things right.
Communicate.
Communication is the key to healthy relationships, and it’s also the secret to being more effective and surviving the trials and tribulations of your customer service job. Why? Because first of all, if you’re doing everything right and letting the people who count know about it, then if something goes wrong, you won’t be blamed unjustly. Second, when customers express dissatisfaction with the service they received or the products they purchased, what they really want is assurance that someone is going to remedy the situation. That assurance begins with positive communication—a reassuring smile, a few comforting words to show them that you empathize with their situation and an update to let them know that the problem is being resolved.
If you are feeling down about working in customer service, and as though yours is a “thankless” job, remember that your company has entrusted you with an amazingly important responsibility. They are relying on you to represent them to the public and to speak and act on their behalf. This is a very great privilege, and a role that is not easily occupied by the “average” person. So do what you need to do to feel happy, confident and capable, and begin to acknowledge all the wonderful ways you enhance the lives of others, each and every day!
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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The Unruly Passenger: How to Handle Confrontation With Poise
by Gailen DavidA glitch in flight plans can cause even the most docile individual to morph in to a shrieking creature from the netherworlds. Passengers express their displeasure in a variety of ways, from raising their voices to shaking their fists to using profane language that is aimed in your general direction. Either way, the method that you go about when trying to calm the obviously irritated customer can make all the difference in diffusing the situation.
Sure, you might be wishing that you had a bottle of “happy pills” to dispense, or that a black hole would suddenly appear, but that line of negative thinking doesn’t help anyone. You’ve heard that the customer is always right—and it’s true. This doesn’t mean that you should be subjected to harassing behavior, of course. The key is to not let the situation escalate to that point. Try these simple tips for alleviating aggravation all around.
Smile, Make Eye Contact
It may sound like a cliché, but a smile can really decrease anxiety. It’s also difficult to maintain the level of hostility when another human being is meeting your eyes with an expression of kindness and understanding. Offer a sympathetic look while listening to the needs of the passenger (as opposed to sporting an expression of disdain and annoyance). You want the customer to feel that you understand their situation, feel compassion for them, and are doing everything in your power to make things right.
Maintain Composure
Ever find yourself going into “mental defense mode” when a customer is ranting at you? Instead of conjuring up evil revenge plots against customers that cause you unpleasantness, shift your mind to a problem-solving mode and focus on maintaining a cool head. Fighting fire with fire only results in an unpleasant outcome for all parties involved, and may even result in the loss of your job. Is it worth it to let a surly individual bring you down and jeopardize your future? Instead of blowing your cool, allow your inner peacemaker to shine through and you will be pleased and proud of yourself for tiding things over.Sympathize
Let the passenger know that you understand their plight. A few key phrases like “I completely know how you feel” or “Let’s see what I can do to help you” will knock their anger level down a few notches. Most often, the customer is upset with the situation at hand, not you in particular. So don’t take it personally and work to make the passenger feel that you’re a team when it comes to resolving the issue.Triple A
Acknowledging, accepting, and apologizing are three steps that you can take to keep the hostile passenger at bay. So if something is amiss, acknowledge flat out that there’s a problem. Once the customer realizes you’re working to resolve the situation, they will tend to back down. Next, accept responsibility for the issue. This lets them know that you intend to take action—and that’s all that they really want. Finally, apologize for their inconvenience. An “I’m sorry” can work miracles in bringing their temper down to ground level. Once the anger is diffused, you can breathe a sigh of relief and take the next steps to correct the issue.
You will encounter many different personalities when flying the friendly skies—and yes, that can sometimes include cantankerous and unreasonable individuals. The most important thing to remember is to not take anything that they might say personally. You’re not the one who created the weather delay. You did not build the aircraft that might need an extra hour of mechanical attention.
Take control of the situation and keep the peace. If you need assistance from your fellow crewmembers, don’t be shy about asking for their help. If you’re new to the business and have little experience in dealing with stubborn and outspoken customers, watch and learn how the other employees handle the situation. Through time, you’ll grow that thick skin that only people who work in the customer service industry can relate to. The unruly passenger may seem ferocious, but you can tame them by learning a few simple tricks.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Good Manners Count at 41,000 Feet, Too
by Gailen DavidHave you ever had a foot appear on your armrest from the row behind you on the airplane? I did and I was ready to jump out of my seat. It may have something to do with the way I was raised, but a stranger’s feet are not something I want near me, or worse, touching me. There are many things that we can all do to show consideration to the hundreds of people that we share the airplane with on an average flight. Here are a few do’s and don’ts:
Do:
Keep Your Shoes On... unless you have the little slipper-socks to put on over your feet. Please wear your shoes into the lavatory, as the floors are naturally filthy due to use by hundreds of people (do not play with your feet). Also, absolutely NO toenail clipping permitted!Keep Your Elbow at Your Side... A good way to do this is to put one of your hands down by your knee and then gently hold your elbow with the other hand. I know it sounds overly considerate, but these are close quarters!
Talk Quietly Please... Whether on your cell phone or speaking to your traveling companion, speak in an “inside” voice. No one else wants to hear your extremely interesting conversation.
Don't:
Miss Cues From Your Neighbor... When the stranger in the next seat has their eyes closed while you are in the middle of your life history, this is an indication that they would rather spend their flight deep in thought. Read a magazine.
Allow Children to Kick Seatback... If you think it is okay to allow your children to kick the seat in front of them, rotate the child so that they can kick you instead! Then ask yourself if you still think it is okay.
Bring Smelly Food Onboard... Canned tuna and Big Macs are to be eaten in private at home, in the car, or at the restaurant. Nuts, a cold sandwich, and other “odorless” selections are much more appropriate.
It is all about being sensitive to the lack of personal space on board aircraft and being kind to your neighbor. Imagine how much less stressful flying would be if each of us were a little more considerate.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Air Travel Grooming Tips: Why Less is More
by Gailen DavidWe’ve all seen those folks who seem to think that their everyday lives take place on a movie set. Women, covered in so much makeup that it makes clowns feel barefaced and men using more mousse than a French bakery. It’s hard to not secretly smile and wonder if their homes are equipped with mirrors.
When you’re working in the customer service industry, let’s face it—looks do matter. Nobody says that you have to be Miss America or a Greek god, though. The trick is to play up your God-given features and not allow your face or style to interfere with your sparkling personality. All eyes are on you, so keep the attention of the passengers with your ability and know-how (and not with that super 12-karat faux-diamond stud that’s pulling on your earlobe).
Makeup, Please!
A billion-dollar industry can’t be wrong when it comes to gracing the faces of thousands of women across the world. Cosmetics have the ability to transform you from a sallow-faced creature to a near-runway model. The trick to keeping it natural is simple. Avoid harsh color palettes. Stick with light and airy tones that will play up your best features instead of masking them. Just because you’re flying to Las Vegas doesn’t mean you must resemble on of their showgirls. When you use minimal amounts of makeup, it’s also less upkeep while in the air.Common Scents
Smelling great is always a bonus—but remember, you’ll be in tight quarters with dozens of people. Think of how generally respond to other people’s “scents,” and then try to avoid spritzing yourself from head to toe. Stick with the basics when going about your hygiene routine. Soaps, body washes, and even deodorant should either be unscented or very light in fragrance. Save the scents for when you’re back on solid ground and where windows are easily accessible.
Accessorize Your Right
Who doesn’t love the dazzle of a diamond or the glimmer of gold? Even so, it helps to be selective when choosing the jewelry that you’ll be wearing. Wedding rings and sentimental baubles never go out of style, but do keep your additional pieces tasteful and limited to just a few here and there. Try to avoid earrings that resemble your grandmother’s chandelier and opt for the basic hoops or studs. When it comes to bracelets, select elegant and slender designs that compliment your wrist.Pride and Groom
When it comes to facial hair, men go to great lengths these days to create their signature look. Whether you choose to have a clean-shaven face or to participate in the trend of “facial hair art,” keep it neat. Bedhead, five o’ clock shadow, and the dreaded unibrow should be avoided whenever possible. Staying trimmed and tidy shows that you care about your appearance and conveys confidence and good sense without being distracting. That just-rolled-out-of-bed look is so 1995—remember that the razor and tweezers are your friends!Nail Call
When it comes to working the friendly skies, it’s your hands that do a bulk of the labor. Keeping them maintained and looking neat is important. Imagine having a hand with chipped nail polish or cracked skin passing you your beverage. Ladies, keep the nails short and business-like and choose a subtle tone of nail polish. Loud and fluorescent colors can help passengers see their way in case of an emergency, but that’s what the floor lighting is for! Men, there is no shame in having an occasional manicure. With a little professional input, you’ll have the best-looking paws in the galley—hands down.The world can be shallow and looks play a part in how you are perceived by others. Enhance your own natural beauty and don’t rely on artificial tactics too much. While wearing a uniform can make you feel like a clone at times, remember that you can add your own unique touch to differentiate yourself from the crowd. Present a polished appearance and there is no doubt that you will be taken seriously by your peers and your passengers.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Airplane Etiquette: Keeping the Skies Friendly
by Gailen DavidRemember the movie Airplane? The antics that occurred on that flight were outrageous, weren’t they? And yet, not so far from the hilarity (or horror) that can ensue when you’re flying in real life. In such cramped quarters, it’s not as if you can maintain your distance from the crazy guy who smells like soup or the old woman who confuses your shoulder for a pillow. But there are ways to keep the excitement to a dull roar. Here are a few airplane etiquette tips for passing the time and “not contributing” to any unpleasantness.
Conversational Dos and Don'ts
Sometimes you meet kind and interesting people while flying; you want to tell them your story and really create a bond while soaring across the sky together. Remember though, that you don’t want to offer up information that could potentially over-excite people or conjure up emotional responses. Are you heading off to a family reunion? Keep the fact that your Aunt Lois had an affair with the mailman on the down low. Is your destination a dull business meeting? Avoid dishing the dirt on your coworkers (you never know who might be sitting in the row behind you!). Resist the urge to share the gory details, no matter how badly you need to “vent.” Stick to benign topics that your flight-mates can relate to. You’ve noticed that your fellow passenger doesn’t have much to contribute to the conversation? Take that as a sign to whip out your crossword puzzle.Volume Control
For the most part, passengers just want to reach their destination without any major mishaps or altercations. However, there’s always that one character, isn’t there? He’s pointing, he’s hollering, he’s flagging down the nearest attendant for “another round for the entire row!!” He’s reading the “jokes” section of Playboy to the people around him and making little children cry. (Okay, so we’re exaggerating here but you get the point, right? Don’t be that guy!) Since you’re in such a tight space, remember to use your inside voice. Stifle the urge to shout and flail about, instead saving up your energy for a future game of Jenga! played in the comfort of your living room. Keep your tones light and don’t invade the personal ear space of those around you.Cell Mates
We’ve all seen those people who seem to have a cell phone surgically attached to their face. It’s not so much that their “accessory” offends your fashion sensibilities; it’s more likely that they’re talking too long and too loudly! We can all help keep “noise pollution” to a minimum by limiting our cell phone use. Of course, if you have to make a few last-minute phone calls to tidy up loose ends, by all means take care of your personal business. But try to avoid veering off on side tangents such as what you packed for your trip, or droning on about your favorite brand of coffee for twenty minutes. You can always give your best friend the real-time update while waiting at the gate or making the trek to baggage claim. Peace and quiet helps everyone think straight and reach their destination without any major distractions or detours!Tray Table Manners
Mealtime is often the high point of any passenger’s journey during flight. You’ve seen that comedian who goes on about how exciting it is to receive the miniature bag of peanuts, right? (And to think, you didn’t even like peanuts until about five minutes ago!) No matter how euphoric that plastic cup of chilled tomato juice makes you feel, try to remember people around you when ingesting food on an airplane. Think fondly of Mom and heed her sage advice from childhood, “Chew with your mouth closed!” Avoid lip-smacking, groans of ecstasy, and of course keep your tray and the general area free of crumbs, food wrappers and crumpled napkins. If you’re a fan of chewing gum, refrain from popping bubbles and do stifle the urge to make that clever snapping sound that can be so much fun.
Natural Instincts
Of course, the callings of Mother Nature can’t be helped. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to use proper lavatory etiquette when maneuvering about the cabin on your way to the facilities. Try not to jostle or bump people when passing. Be polite to your neighbors and let seniors go first, assuming it’s not a bladder emergency. If you know that you’re one of those people who frequently need to visit the bathroom, request an aisle seat so you won’t disrupt the passengers seated in your row. Limit your beverages, avoid alcoholic drinks if they cause a problem for you—and if you happen to be flying over Niagara Falls, try not to look out of the window!
These are just a few tips and tricks to keep the atmosphere amicable on your flight. Remember the Golden Rule from your grammar school days? You can be the model passenger and purveyor of peace—if you follow some simple personal guidelines and practice common sense.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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The First-Time Flyer: 5 Ways to Comfort a Nervous Passenger
by Gailen DavidFlying on a commercial aircraft for the first time has different effects on different people. Some passengers take it in stride, while others cling to their tray table and repent for their sins. While you may be a seasoned veteran at flying, try for a moment to put yourself into the fearful passenger’s shaking boots.
Remember that knot in your stomach the first time you pulled up the window shade on a jet-fueled 747? (Okay, maybe you don’t—but it’s different for everyone!) As the flight attendant, it’s your job to alleviate that fear with a balance of humor and compassion.
When it comes to the anxious passenger, there are a few easy tips that will help make their first journey on an airplane successful. After all, you want them to walk away from the experience viewing it as a pleasant one in the hopes that they will not only fly again but select your carrier for their future travel plans. Nobody wants to see a pasty-faced sweaty passenger disembark from a flight. Having a legitimate concern for their well-being is a high priority.
Reassurance
It may sound simple enough, but when you’re cruising at 37,000 feet, reassuring a nervous passenger isn’t exactly a walk in the park. In fact, it can feel like the equivalent of talking someone down from a ledge. If you are aware that there is a passenger with some anxiety about flying, try to pay special attention to that person. Some passengers will have so many questions that it will make your head spin, while others will keep quiet, gnawing on their cuticles. Now is the time to use a soothing voice and address any concerns that they might have. Maintaining a pleasant flow in the conversation will help calm their nerves and more importantly, save that shiny manicure.Staying Occupied
Take the passenger’s mind off the fact that they are miles above the ground. After all, that’s the most likely reason that they are fearful in the first place. Some people can’t handle being outside of their comfort zone, let alone cruising inside of a metal aircraft high above the earth. Offer them magazines and newspapers if they haven’t already brought some along. If the flight is long enough to offer a movie, gently persuade them to watch the film. A two-hour movie can make time fly... literally. When it comes time for food and beverages, convince the passenger to partake in a small snack or a non-alcoholic beverage. While relying on Johnny Walker to relax might seem ideal, it usually only adds to the stress level.Sweet Dreams
Whether you’re working a cross-country jaunt or just flying a short distance, offer the passenger a pillow and a blanket. Sure, it’s not the equivalent of what you may find in a four-star resort, but it’s a small touch in maintaining their comfort level. Assist them in adjusting the lighting, airflow, and window shades for a nap-conducive setting. If you notice they are carrying an MP3 player, suggest some relaxing music. With a little help from technology, the passenger could sleep through the entire flight and wake up happy, humming showtunes.
Keeping the Passenger Informed
A nervous flyer often becomes anxious because during flight, it’s not uncommon to lose all concept of time. When you’re walking the aisle, stop by for a friendly visit and to let them know how many hours have passed. If you’re about to fly over any area of particular geographical interest, let them know. Nobody wants to miss seeing the Grand Canyon from cloud-level or a famous river snaking its way across the land. Passengers like to know their whereabouts. And with each passing mile, they feel one step closer to completing their first flight and one step closer to having their feet where they like them—on the ground.Be Patient
No matter how flustered or overcome with emotion a passenger may get, it’s important to keep a cool head. Their fear is legitimate and it will surface in various ways. Speak in soft tones and constantly reassure the passenger that their safety and happiness in-flight is your number one concern. These are just a few measures you can take when calming the nervous flyer. Much what you can offer is simply second nature. Above all, remember that you are representing your airline. If a first-time passenger can walk off of that plane at their destination and smile, then not only did you do your job well, but you’ve made a lasting and positive impression and possibly gained a customer for life.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Overnight Traveler: Tips for Maintaining a Comfortable Flight
by Gailen DavidFlying during the nighttime hours can be very peaceful. Once you’ve taken off and begun cruising at a comfortable altitude, it’s time to kick back, relax and look forward to your journey. Plan ahead for your trip and before you know it, you’ll be preparing for the final descent into your destination city.
Travel Size
Sure, airlines offer you a small pillow and blanket. But if you’re headed off for a particularly long flight, you might want to bring along your own modified versions. There are many types of travel pillows on the market today, ranging in size and style. Before you leave for your trip, hit your local retail establishments and try out a few types that will best suit your needs. That favorite blanket that your grandma knitted can also make the perfect travel partner, so don’t be shy about bringing it along. There is no judgment in the skies.
Slip Into Comfort
Shoes can be confining and constrict the flow of blood in your legs, so allowing your feet to be free can relieve bodily stress. Bring along a pair of comfy slippers to help your body relax and trick your mind into thinking you’re enjoying a restful night at home. And who knows... strolling the aisles in your well-worn bunny footwear may just start a new fashion trend. Remember of course, that personal odors can cause an embarrassing situation. If you’re notorious for sporting an unpleasant aroma in your Hushpuppies, take that in to account before subjecting the entire cabin to your signature foot fragrance.
Tune In, Zone Out
Don’t forget to load up your MP3 player with a variety of music that you find comforting. Don’t worry, those ear buds assure the fact that nobody around you will know that you secretly adore listening to the chanting of monks or that Broadway show tunes help prepare you for that big business meeting. There are several genres of music websites that include pre-set play lists—take advantage of modern technology and your tunes can whisk you away to dreamland in no time.Jitterbug
For obvious reasons, loading up on the java pre-flight can have its drawbacks. If you plan on staying awake during your evening travel, then by all means, grab a cup. However, if you’d prefer to catch a few winks in the dimly-lit cabin, then avoid anything associated with caffeine. The jolt isn’t limited to the usual suspects like coffee, tea, and sodas. Keep away from dark and milk chocolate and if you are taking any cold medications, be sure to check the label. Some remedies provide the same amount of kick as a cup of coffee.Bad Medicine
Sometimes it’s not wise to rely on artificial methods in order to catch a nap. Unless you’ve tested out sleep aids prior to travel, try to stick with more conventional methods. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause a very deep sleep. You’re after a light slumber—not the Rip Van Winkle look. It’s also tempting to turn to alcohol to relax. A drink or two to help you calm down is perfectly fine, but just try to limit yourself.
Sleeping while in the air can be challenging, but if you take the time to address your needs before boarding your plane, you might be pleasantly surprised. When it comes time to return your seat to its upright position, the only bags that you’ll be sporting are the ones that you packed for your trip.
Copyright 2007 Gailen David, Sky Steward LLC. All rights reserved.
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Snacks on a Plane: Easy Tricks to Ward Off Hunger in the Sky
by Gailen DavidWe’ve all had that feeling while in mid-flight. The sudden craving for a sweet or salty snack, the gnawing hunger pains, the anticipation of landing and raiding the doughnut stand that’s closest to the terminal. Suddenly the stick of Juicy Fruit that you are chewing proves to be... well, fruitless. Before you take flight for your next trip, there are a few tricks to keep in mind when it comes to appeasing those pangs of hunger. With a little preparation and planning, you’ll be a satisfied passenger.
Eat a Hearty Meal Before Departure
Whether you’re scheduled to leave at 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., have a balanced meal before you leave the house. Flying on a full stomach will keep you at ease and allow you to relax. It will also keep blood sugar levels stable and fuel your brain for whatever unexpected events may transpire.Stick to Familiar Fare
Avoid anything too heavy or foods that you aren’t familiar with before flying. Instead, fuel up on a good balance of protein and carbs with fruit for natural sugar and an energy boost. Yogurt, cereal, light sandwiches, or lightly seasoned chicken and rice are all good choices. Trying Thai food for the first time before your flight may not be such a wise idea, nor is filling up on franks and kraut or bean burritos. Stick with the basics—your body and those around you will be thankful!Pack a Snack
Gathering last-minute items for your upcoming trip doesn’t have to be limited to just the toiletry aisle. Take a stroll over to the food section and grab some healthy snacks to bring along in your carry-on bag. Items such as nuts, granola bars, raisins, pretzels, or fresh fruit offer a satisfying kick and a burst of energy. If your appetite is along the heartier lines, try making a sandwich for the trip. Avoid using ingredients that may offend the passengers around you. While you may think your tuna salad with red onions and vinegar is heaven on a plate, the noses of your fellow travelers may disagree.Don't Let the Food Cart Roll By....
ake advantage of the meals or snacks offered on your flight. Try to schedule your visits to the lavatory or walks around the cabin according to the meal cart. If you see that your flight attendants are preparing to make their rounds, stay seated so that you can be sure that you’ll be getting something to munch on. If you have specific dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or kosher, you can arrange for a special meal when booking your flight. Nothing brings on tummy turbulence like being a vegetarian and having a chicken sandwich presented to you as your main form of sustenance.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, don’t start your trip out on the wrong foot. Suffering from hunger is a feeling that you can avoid. Assure yourself of a pleasant travel experience by following these simple suggestions, and you can easily keep your cravings on stand-by.
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Travel Skincare Must-Haves
by Gailen DavidMy best friend Kristi and I worked a wonderful trip to San Francisco in which we decided to focus on our own beauty rather than that of the city of San Francisco; besides, this is one of the best shopping cities in the United States.
Once we were at the hotel we decided to head right out for lunch before we would begin shopping. There are so many wonderful restaurants in San Francisco, but we decided to go for something quick, easy, yet delicious so we could get to the stores right away. We started off at Westfield, which is a few blocks away from our hotel at Union Square. The food court at Westfield has been voted the Best Food Court in San Francisco.
Men's Cologne
Well, after lunch, we decided to start at Macy’s where I found the most incredible fragrance, Hypnose for Men by Lancome. Constructed so as to deliberately mix the bracing yet soft effects of a fougere (bergamot, lavender, coumarone, geranium, oak moss...) and the warm deeper effects of an oriental and has notes of mint, bergamot, Calabrian Mandarin, Chinese cardamom seed, essence of provençal lavender, amber, musk, and essence of Indonesian patchouli.Great Unisex Skin Perfector
Next, we headed over to Sephora and Kristi picked out some products that she knew I would like and she was right on. When I fly a lot and don’t have the time to get out by the pool to pick up some color, I need a good bronzer. Well she suggested the Shiseido Color Stick in “Bronze Flush” which gives a very nice suntanned look to the cheeks, nose, and forehead. You would NEVER know it was on; which is rather important for men.Super Bronzer
Next, we headed over to Sephora and Kristi picked out some products that she knew I would like and she was right on. When I fly alot and don't have the time to get out by the pool to pick up some color, I need a good bronzer. Well she suggested the Shiseido Color Stick in "Bronze Flush" which gives a very nice suntanned look to the cheeks, nose, and forehead. You would NEVER know it was on; which is rather important for men.Oxygenating Face Mask
I decided that before I used a bronzer I needed to get my face revitalized. We discovered an incredible mask from Bliss. The Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask Instantly delivers a shot of oxygen, a powerhouse form of vitamin C, time-released antioxidants, and a moisture fix, to spiff up your complexion when it’s looking and feeling lackluster.Pore Shrinker
Not to be forgotten are Pore Perfection and Ain’t Misbehavin Cleanser form Dermadoctor. Picture Porefect helps pores appear smaller by removing excess oil, blackheads, and smoothing out dry edges. Ain’t Misbehavin deep cleans without drying. Helps eliminate the breakouts while removing excess oil, makeup, and bacteria. Penetrates pores to eliminate, clear up, and prevent the development of new acne blemishes while allowing skin to heal.Enjoyed this article? Get more! Sign up for JETIQUETTE, our monthly email newsletter.
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Staying Completely Connected While Traveling
by Gailen DavidAs a flight attendant it is no surprise to me or anyone else that I travel a lot; however, I used to get stressed when it is time to leave home. Besides simply suffering from homesickness, I sometimes felt like I was leaving so many loose ends; like bills not being mailed out or my email not being caught up. Well, I decided to change all that. I would love to share some of my secrets with you for keeping yourself together when criss-crossing the country.
The Right Laptop
Traveling with my laptop is an absolute necessity. I have a Dell M1210 which has a 12.1 inch screen and a long-life battery. I went to the smaller screen after using one with a 15.4-inch screen for a couple of years before. The older computer was much too big for use in the economy section of the airplane for when I was traveling as a passenger. My laptop has built in ATT/Cingular Wireless Broadband Service that makes me completely self-sufficient when it comes to Internet access. Now I do not have to depend on or pay for access from hotels and coffee shops on the road. Remember, if you prefer Apple, they have incredibly portable units available as well and I know many Apple owners that are very happy with them.The Right Cellular Phone
Many times, it is just not convenient to take out the laptop so having a cell phone solution that keeps you connected via voice and email makes life much, much easier and keeps you productive. I use the Blackberry Pearl from ATT/Cingular, which keeps me constantly connected to my email so that I can respond to many within minutes. Besides that, it has very good internet access (included in plan, but separate from the wireless broadband on my laptop). Another great thing about this phone is the long battery life. It normally holds a charge for 3 to 4 days. Although the iPhone sounds exciting, I am waiting to see what BlackBerry creates as a challenge!Portable Entertainment Device
Taking your music and video entertainment with you is something that can make a boring trip much more enjoyable and comfortable. Why not watch an episode of Judge Judy when all there is to watch in the airport is CNN Headline News? I have a Creative M to watch videos and listen to music, plus I have a smaller, less expensive MP3 player for the gym. You can buy your music from many different places. I get my music from the Yahoo Music Subscription Service because I can get so many songs and keep changing them on a regular basis.Watch Your Den TV While at DFW Airport
If you want to try something really cool, you should check out the SlingBox. I have one and it makes it possible for me to watch my den TV and TIVO through the internet on my laptop from ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. This is the best invention and takes about an hour to set up.
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Flying With Children, a.k.a. Surviving Terror in the Skies
by Gailen DavidPop question, what do you do when you’re on a plane and suddenly realize you’ve got a rambunctious three year old or two in your immediate vicinity? Is it:
a. Run screaming for the lavatory and lock yourself in?
b. Immediately call your attendant and ask for a scotch on the rocks, “and keep them coming?”
c. Say a silent prayer that the child will be well-behaved, then shoot the wee one a warning look to give the impression that you’re not one to mess with?
The answer is d. None of the above. (Well, maybe c wouldn’t hurt.) The truth is, most kids travel pretty well. If, however, you find yourself in the midst of a kiddie meltdown, here are some points to remember.
Help Out
Does Mom or Dad need some help reaching a bag overhead or finding a toy under the seat? Give them a hand! If the screaming child is annoying to you, imagine how the kid’s parents feel with all eyes on them.Distract
This might be the perfect time to test how sturdy that new cell phone really is! Show the kid your phone, help them figure out the headphones to watch TV (most airlines have a kid’s channel in-flight now), let them listen to your Ipod. It’s simple; a quiet kid means peace for you.Tune Out
If lending a hand doesn’t work, grab some headphones and find something else to listen to- music, movies, anything with volume to drown out the noise. Turn it up and tune it out! One last thing to keep in mind is to keep your cool and try to empathize with the family. Muttering under your breath might make you feel better, but it’s only going to add stress to an already tense situation. Hey, you were probably once a screaming kid too!return to top
Kid-Friendly Travel Tips: 4 Ways to Keep Little Hands Busy
by Gailen DavidKeeping smaller passengers occupied while flying can be challenging. Children are accustomed to staying busy, and being confined to a seat in an aircraft can cause nervousness and distress. Planning ahead for a flight with a little one can make your trip a smooth and successful journey. While shopping for your upcoming trip, involve your kids in the packing process. Take them with you to the store and help them select special items that will be sure to keep them entertained. Sometimes the element of surprise can work wonders, too. Try gathering a few things ahead of time and save the fun for when you sense a tantrum on the horizon. Break out their new toys and activities and watch the tears subside.
Activities
The tray-table in your aircraft can become your own personal entertainment center. Special travel-sized versions of popular games are available and are a perfect fit for a small area. Selecting activities such as puzzles or coloring books offer up a great distraction from the flight and keep their little minds focused on the task at hand. Remember to pack a new box of crayons and some fresh paper and watch their creativity flourish.Snacks
Kids love two things: keeping busy and eating. Bring along some fun snacks and juice boxes and it will undoubtedly pass the time. Since toddlers can be especially tricky, be sure to bring along the foods that they are used to at home. There’s no need to experiment with new snacks if you think it might trigger some emotional turbulence. Stay away from foods that are high in sugar. Flying with little ones can be difficult enough without adding hyperactivity to the mix.DVD Players
If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a personal DVD player for the trip. Although movies are frequently offered on the flight, they are often geared toward the PG-13 audience. Picking out familiar cartoons and shows to take along on the trip can keep any child calm and happy. Add a snack-sized bag of popcorn and their favorite pillow and turn your flight into their own slumber party in the sky.Video Games
f you’re one of the many families whose children have personal gaming devices, this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of them. Kids can get lost in the trials and tribulations of their favorite video game characters. Game units aren’t limited to the older kids, either. There are many educational games aimed at the pre-school crowd. Purchasing a new game prior to your trip is a great idea. Keep it under wraps until your flight takes off and present it to your child. Not only will they be surprised, but it will offer up an amusing distraction. Even some adults find it difficult to not become bored while in the air. Imagine having the mind set of a child and trying to pass time. Constructive activities will not only keep a clear head, but it will also make your flight more peaceful.If this is the first flight for the child, keeping them entertained is key. Be sure to involve them in discussions and interact with them when it comes to games and other activities. Look at it as an opportunity to bond with your little one- staying occupied isn’t very difficult if you plan ahead and remember to pack your patience.
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Traveling With Kids 101
by Gailen DavidWhen you think about flying with your kids, do your palms get sweaty and eyes glaze over? Do you envision the Worst Possible Scenario, complete with cramped quarters, screaming meltdowns, horrified passengers and a throbbing migraine? Don’t worry. You’re not the only parent who feels this way—but there are plenty of things you can do to make your trip a success and take the “pain” out of flying with your family. The key is preparedness.
Talk To Your Kids Beforehand
Sit down with them and explain what they can expect. Make sure they understand the rules, like staying in your seat when appropriate and listening to staff directions. Tell them that your “home rules” still apply, but that there are special exceptions (such as more TV time- yay!).Sensible Items
Depending on the age of your child, make sure you have important items in your carry-on, including wipes, diapers, necessary medications, a change of clothes, etc. If your child has a “blowout” or gets sick, you don’t want those things in your suitcase in the cargo hold! The passengers around you will also appreciate your good sense.Snacks
Be sure to bring plenty of everyone’s favorite snacks. Pack easy finger foods that won’t end up all over your clothes. (Nothing says “I just flew cross-country with a baby” better than blueberry yogurt on your blouse). For older kids, let them pick what they like and take them in their own carry-ons.Activities and Surprises
Bring as many things to do as you can, especially for very long flights. Crayons, paper, washable markers, puzzle books, mini Etch-a-Sketches- these all make good choices. But here’s a fun twist: Wrap each item individually before the flight and hand them over one by one as your child is ready for a new activity. They’ll feel like it’s their birthday, and you’ll be a hero. Win-win!So as you take to the skies with your beloved offspring, remember to be prepared, communicate with your kids, and keep it as fun as possible. With our helpful tips, surrounding passengers will be asking you for your secrets as your clan de-boards. And you can pretend these ideas were all yours.
At The Curb
Use the outside lane of the departure drop off area. Don’t start off stressed; jockeying for position at the curb of the terminal. Avoid the road rage and have someone drop you off at the outside lane. Both you and your driver can be off and on your way in no time.Check bags at the curb. Airlines that charge to check bags at the curb have really done everyone a favor because this means less people use the service and for a few dollars you can get your bag checked and obtain your boarding pass without standing in line inside the terminal.
In the Terminal
Be mindful of TSA screening procedures. Holding up the security line can cause everyone a meltdown. Do your part to keep the line flowing smoothly.Remember the liquid ban. Liquids must be in a 1-quart bag and each container in the bag must not exceed 3 oz. size. This bag should be removed and put into a bin at the security line and run through the conveyer.
Put your cell phone in your bag or be prepared to place it in a bin with your liquids, shoes, belt, other metal objects, and your jacket or coat. Also in this bin should be electronics such as tape camcorders, DVD players, etc.
Have your laptop within reach and put it in ITS OWN BIN. Do not put other items in your laptop bin. (The screeners do not like it.)
KEEP YOUR BOARDING PASS IN HAND. This is the easiest thing to forget and if it goes into the x-ray machine it adds minutes to the screening time of everyone behind you.
Once through the line; grab your articles and move away to reduce congestion. You can reassemble yourself at one of the benches located a few feet away from the security conveyer.
If you are with children, make sure that they are close to you. Not only does it protect them, it makes it easier for other travelers to make their way through the tight, crowded conditions in the terminal.
When you are waiting in gate area, only take up one seat. Move your luggage and other items off of seats to make them available to others in the gate area.
Cell Phone Infractions
Cell phones are convenient and they are here to stay, but use cell-phone etiquette. A great rule of thumb is to speak into your cell phone as if you are speaking directly into the ear of the person on the other end of the phone line. If you have to shout, you may want to call them back later. It is excruciating to listen to the details of someone else’s conversation shouted through the concourse. It also makes the caller look incredibly obnoxious, if that means anything.If you are on the phone when you approach a ticket agent, flight attendant, or cashier at one of the concessions, you will receive much better service and speed up the queue if you hang up or ask the caller to hold as you take the phone away from your ear and focus on the person that is physically there to assist you.
Bad Boarding Form
No matter how hard the airlines try, new boarding techniques are useless without a little help from all of us who are traveling. When airlines board by groups, the idea is to keep the pathway clear up to the jet bridge door so that one area of the plane may be boarded at a time. Resist the urge to block access to those whose group is actually being called. There is one trick though; once the group in before yours is called, and it appears that most in that group are already in line, go ahead and step behind them. This way you will be the first in your group onto the aircraft. Your timing will improve with experience. If you are unlucky enough to get up to the person taking boarding passes before your group is called, politely introduce yourself as the first person in the next group. It has worked for me every time. (Be sure to smile.)Watch Your Carry-On Bags
Once onboard and proceeding down the aisle to your seat, be careful not to hit everyone with your carry-on bags. As much as you love your designer luggage, no one enjoys having their shoulder assaulted, even if it is by Louis Vuitton!If you are taking gifts with you to your destination, consider shipping them ahead. Taking gifts as carry-on should only be done if you plan on checking all other carry-on bags. If it is hard to find an empty overhead bin on flights during normal periods, imagine how it will be during the peak season.
Don’t take over the overhead bin. Make sure that you thoughtfully place your items in the overhead bin in order to take up the least amount of space. Put your smaller bag at your feet and make sure it contains all of the things you need in flight such as your mp3 player, laptop, reading material, water, etc. so that you can avoid having to into the overhead bin after takeoff.
If you have a blazer or sport coat, ask the flight attendant in first class if you may hang it. Unless they short hangers, they should have no problem with this (I am always happy to do this for passengers).
If you see someone having a hard time with their carry on and you can assist them, please do. You have no idea how you may be helping another traveler have a good day. Most likely they’ve been worrying how they were going to handle that bag. You will definitely save the day.
Jetiquette™ In-Flight
Seat back pockets are for everyone. Do not place garbage in them since it is becoming impossible for airlines to thoroughly clean aircraft between flights because of shorter times on the ground. Make sure to give your refuse to the flight attendant or even take it off with you and place it into a garbage can in the terminal.If you use your tray-table, make sure that it is clean before you close it. Many passengers find their tray table to be dirty when the drink cart arrives at their seat. Although it is the responsibility of the airline cleaning staff to clean the tray table, a little consideration by the passenger on the previous flight would make everyone’s day better.
If you bring food along, please choose food that will not fill the cabin with an unpleasant odor. I once had a woman open two cans of tuna on a flight and thought we were going to have to open a door in flight to get rid of the odor. I had passengers offering to help me!
Make sure that you have “ear bud” style headsets. They allow you to enjoy superior sound without blasting everyone else around you.
If you bring a DVD player for family viewing, make sure to purchase a splitter or two so that more than one person can listen in. It is not acceptable to allow the DVD player sound to play over the speaker.
Mind Your Space
Make sure that you do not invade the space of the passengers sitting next to you. Ensure that your elbows are completely within the borders of your armrests and that your knees and feet stay in line with your seat as well. A good way to sit is to grab your forearm with the opposite hand. It helps your back and keeps your shoulders and elbows from flowing into your seatmate’s space. If the person sitting next to you is unaware of these guidelines, you may have to tell them what you plan on doing to make their trip more comfortable. Invite them to wake you if you come into their space while you are sleeping. This will get the message across.Give others you encounter and happen to make eye contact with a pleasant expression or even a good morning, afternoon, evening. It makes for a more pleasant experience; remembering that kindness is contagious.
When the stranger sitting next to you arrives; a pleasant hello is good form. You’ll know if additional conversation is welcome or not. Just ignoring each other completely is something we all need to get away from. Just think, that stranger may become your best friend in the event of an emergency.
When you leave your seat during the flight, try your best not to pull excessively on the seat in front of you for support. Instead, use the armrest in your row to help you leave your seat. There is nothing worse than finally getting some deep sleep and having your seat suddenly twisted and pulled in a way that has you startled and reaching for the emergency exit.
In the Lavatory
Dirty lavatories are a big issue to passengers. We can all make a difference. Make sure that you leave the lavatory in the right condition; sink drained, basin and counter dry, toilet flushed, toilet seat and cover down, and paper towels in the trash receptacle. If you have to, clean up a little bit for the person who was in there before you. You’ll get over it and will have a positive impact on the next person’s trip.Wear shoes into the lavatory to avoid having your socks act as a sponge.
If it is at all possible, please handle all heavy-duty bathroom business in the hotel room, at home, or in the airport terminal restroom. The noses of passengers sitting in the rows adjacent to the lavatory will thank you.
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