The 7 Habits That Make Drone Pilots and Business Owners Succeed
Being successful as a drone pilot isn’t just about flying drones. It’s about planning, storytelling, and running a strong business. Whether you film for real estate, tourism, or commercials, your habits shape your success.
Stephen Covey’s famous book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People provides powerful ideas for improving your skills and building your drone business. Here’s how drone pilots and business owners can apply these habits clearly and simply.
1. Be Proactive – Take Control of Your Flights and Business
Being proactive means making things happen instead of waiting.
As a drone pilot, I know this habit can stop problems before they start. Instead of reacting when things go wrong, you plan ahead and stay ready. It gives you control and makes your clients happy because they trust your reliability.
As a drone pilot:
- Check weather conditions and regulations early.
- Scout locations in advance.
- Always maintain and prepare your gear.
As a business owner:
- Actively reach out to potential clients.
- Stay updated on drone regulations.
- Continuously improve your skills.
Pro Tip: Use a checklist before every shoot. This simple habit can prevent costly mistakes and wasted time.
2. Begin with the End in Mind – Plan Your Shots and Goals Clearly
This habit means thinking clearly about your goal before you start.
For drone pilots, it helps them shoot with purpose, ensuring their footage matches their clients’ needs.
For business owners, it ensures every decision moves you closer to your big goals. It’s about making a clear map to success, not wandering randomly.
As a drone pilot:
- Picture the final video before flying.
- Plan your flight paths carefully.
- Know exactly the story your footage needs to tell.
As a business owner:
- Set clear and specific business goals.
- Build a strong portfolio that matches your target market.
- Develop a clear, recognisable brand.
Pro Tip: Create a storyboard or shot list before every project. This will save time and improve your results.
3. Put First Things First – Prioritise Your Most Important Tasks
Time and battery life are limited in drone videography, making prioritisation essential. Focusing on what matters most helps you use your resources efficiently.
Business owners benefit by concentrating on tasks that grow the business rather than getting stuck on minor details.
As a drone pilot:
- Capture the most important footage first.
- Organise and backup footage immediately.
- Maximise battery efficiency by avoiding unnecessary shots.
As a business owner:
- Focus on high-value clients and tasks.
- Delegate or automate less important activities.
- Clearly define your weekly top priorities.
Pro Tip: Write down your top three priorities every week. Focus on what moves your business forward.
4. Think Win-Win – Build Relationships That Last
Thinking win-win is about building relationships that benefit both sides.
Drone pilots who use this habit create happy clients who keep coming back. It builds trust, respect, and loyalty, helping your drone business succeed long-term.
As a drone pilot:
- Set fair prices that reflect your skill and value.
- Offer extra value whenever possible.
- Always deliver reliable results.
As a business owner:
- Negotiate deals that benefit you and your clients.
- Provide more than clients expect.
- Maintain regular contact to nurture client relationships.
Pro Tip: Treat every client as a long-term partner, not just a one-time job. Happy clients bring referrals.
5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood – Improve Communication
Good communication is key to success.
Many clients don’t fully understand drones or video production. This habit teaches you to listen carefully, understand exactly what the client wants, and offer clear and helpful advice. It prevents misunderstandings and ensures client satisfaction.
As a drone pilot:
- Clarify your client’s expectations before shooting.
- Listen to feedback without immediately responding.
- Guide clients with your expert advice when needed.
As a business owner:
- Communicate clearly in emails and proposals.
- Educate clients about drone filming.
- Confirm project details to prevent confusion.
Pro Tip: After every client meeting, send a short email summarising what was discussed. This keeps everyone on the same page.
6. Synergise – Work Together to Achieve More
Synergy is about teamwork and collaboration.
Drone pilots can achieve much better results by working closely with others, such as editors, ground videographers, or FPV pilots. This teamwork adds value to footage, improving the final product.
In business, collaborating can open new doors and opportunities.
As a drone pilot:
- Collaborate closely with editors and other creators.
- Partner with ground-based videographers.
- Team up with specialists like FPV pilots.
As a business owner:
- Network with other filmmakers and creatives.
- Hire or outsource tasks when you’re too busy.
- Join professional groups to share and gain knowledge.
Pro Tip: Building a strong team can take your work to the next level.
7. Sharpen the Saw – Continuously Improve Your Skills
This habit is about always learning and improving.
Drone technology and filming techniques change rapidly. Drone pilots and business owners who regularly improve their skills stay competitive. It keeps you ahead of the industry and ensures your work remains outstanding.
As a drone pilot:
- Regularly practice new flight techniques.
- Learn advanced editing and colour grading skills.
- Stay informed about new drones and technology.
As a business owner:
- Take courses to improve storytelling and marketing skills.
- Regularly study top drone videos for new ideas.
- Explore new types of drone services to expand your business.
Pro Tip: Set aside time each month to learn something new. Small improvements lead to big results.
My Final Thoughts
Applying these 7 habits can dramatically improve your drone piloting and business growth.
It’s not about mastering complicated techniques but consistently practising simple, powerful strategies.
Take Action Today
- Pick one habit to focus on this week.
- Make a slight change in how you film, plan, or communicate.
- Watch how it improves your workflow and business.
What habit will you start with?
