And for airlines like south-east Asia's Royal Brunei, which are too small for it to be worth their while joining an alliance, the best way to compete is not to compete.

CNN: Gulf airlines shake up aviation alliances

Or that it would even be worth their while?

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Once someone gives you an opportunity then make it worth their while: show up to work on time, be enthusiastic, be independent, learn the ropes.

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Fellow bailout recipients like Ireland -- which had to accept a full country bailout for its bust banks -- may ask for their terms to be reviewed, while Spain could clash with other countries over which banks are worth saving and which aren't.

CNN: First relief in Spain...then reflection