Keep it Professional – Union First!

Date: October 6, 2018

MEC EAP and Professional Standards Committee   

When issues are taken to management to report a flying partner or another employee, the consequences can be severe for all parties involved and rarely turn out as we might anticipate. The Professional Standards component of AFA EAP exists to assist Flight Attendants in any area that affects professional conduct. It is important for everyone to take personal responsibility for creating a cooperative, respectful and work environment that is tolerant of differing opinions. If conflict does occur, take the initiative to address it respectfully.

We encourage the resolution of any disagreement by trying to discuss the specific behavior or area of contention with the individual involved seeking to find an acceptable solution. We recommend that flying partners approach each other and speak about the problem in a calm, non-threatening manner out of the view of passengers. Sometimes it is better to wait until after work, off the airplane, when both have had some time to think more clearly about the matter.

Above all, keep it professional. If a discussion does not seem to be productive, call your AFA EAP Representative to discuss a Professional Standards matter. AFA EAP is a voluntary and confidential service of your Union. We can help you to work out any difficulty and avoid “writing up” flying partners or other employees, where both parties may then potentially be subject to disciplinary action.

As part of AFA’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), we have trained Professional Standards volunteers available to you in every domicile. After listening to your concerns, EAP representatives will follow up on the situation and pursue the appropriate action necessary. Because confidentiality is the cornerstone of AFA’s EAP, Committee representatives will not report back to you concerning any conversations with the Flight Attendant or any recommendations that were made during any follow-up conversations. Together, we can keep each other safe.

To contact your Local Professional Standards Representatives visit the Committees Home pageon unitedafa.org.