“I think probably kindness is my number one attribute in a human being. I will put it before any of the things like courage or bravery, or generosity, or anything else…kindness—that simple word. To be kind—it covers everything, to my mind. If you are kind that is it”-Roald Dahl
A simple maxim as regards kindness once said that sometimes you have to be kind to others, not because they are nice, but because you are.
Unfortunately, this sentiment seems to fly over people’s heads when it comes to dealing with Flight attendants. Back in the day, being a flight attendant was associated with prestige and sophistication insomuch that it became one of the most coveted jobs. Today, however, that perception is long gone and the profession has somewhat fallen from grace. What was once a luxurious and esteemed career that entails the very safety of the passengers has now devolved into a menial job which passengers have taken to mean as catering to their every demand and whim. However, passengers need to understand that the job description of a flight attendant goes beyond ensuring them a comfortable flight. Moreover, they need to know that they are not there at their behest and that the job basically entails everything from hospitality down to emergency medical response. Understandably, your flight attendant would be inevitably stressed either from impossible passengers or the long flight beforehand. For this reason, you need to treat them with respect and courtesy.
Of course, it also pays to be nice to your flight attendant not only because it increases your chances of getting flight upgrades, but it ensures that should you need anything, you would not have a hard time coordinating with them. Sure, being an amiable passenger might increase your chances of getting upgraded flights, but it is not always a guarantee. Furthermore, every trip is different and you will likely have an experience of your own. However, by treating every airline staff member like the professionals that they are, your chances of having a happier and more comfortable flight would be increased. In any case, regardless of whether you are only in for a short sojourn such as a brief food trip in Pampanga, or a lengthier overseas trip, being nice to your flight attendant would do you wonders.
Here are the reasons why:
They would be more likely to give you prompt service
Let us face it: If you were in the shoes of your flight attendant, which passenger would you likely entertain first? The rude ones who treated you with little to no respect or rudely asked you to stow away their bags? Or the kind ones who returned your smile and greeted you the moment they embarked the plane? Of course, it would be the latter right? In this regard, we get back to the golden rule: treat people as you would have them treat you. Being nice to your flight attendant establishes a good start and in turn, would make them more receptive to giving you service than if you were rude to them.
They are tired as well
Of course, flight attendants can empathize with you if your flight has been delayed and would be able to see why you are understandably upset. However, do not lash out at them as the delay of your flight is anything but their fault. In fact, they are just as affected of it as you are, so there is absolutely no reason for you to rant and blame them nor is there any justifiable reason for you to verbally lash out on them. Needless to say, they would apologize in their airline’s behalf for the delay but that does not make it their fault in any way. Take note: Your flight attendants are tired as well and are just as frustrated and annoyed as you are with the delay.
It might score you some perks
Although being nice to your flight attendant does not always guarantee you a free flight upgrade, it definitely increases the odds of your scoring one. However, even if you did not get that much-coveted flight upgrade by buttering up your flight attendant, you can expect perks in the form of free soda or even free food and the like. In some cases, it might even mean getting served first.
At the end of the day, you should be nice to your flight attendants (and similarly everyone else) because you are a nice person. Being nice and extending common courtesy to your flight attendants do not always have to be done because you expect something. You treat them with kindness not because you expect anything in return, but because you are a kind person. Remember, kindness always pays and you would definitely have a better experience by doing your part in being nice to flight stewards as well. Besides, being rude and impossible would not only stress you out but everyone else around you as well.
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