When hiring staff for a swim organization it is no secret that you have to be extra selective, after all we are dealing with young swimmers in an aquatic environment!

I sat down with Carla Zarifeh, Managing Partner at Aquaventures Swim Centre in Vancouver, BC and here’s what she had to say on this topic!

What are the characteristics that you look for when interviewing candidates for a position within your organization?

We hire the personality and train the skill. The candidate has to show a passion for working with kids and a passion about teaching. They have to care about the success of the students and be open to adapting to our curriculum. They have to be happy, energetic, genuine, compassionate, caring and confident!

Are they compatible with the company’s vision, culture and philosophy?

We look for their own personalities to shine within our space.

What are the most important key factors you look for when doing an in-water interview?

Based on a two hour in-water interview/shadow teaching with a senior instructor:
We look for the energy level, are they giving a 100% to the first and last class? How was their reception and application of the feedback given? Did they take it well, did they apply it, were they defensive or resistant to the change or were they welcoming of it? Did they create a connection with the kids? How is their safety awareness?

Facial expression, eye contact and interaction with the kids are important factors. We see how they are interacting with the kids and if their behaviour and facial expressions are truly genuine. Are they genuinely engaged with the students and are happy to be teaching, if so, then that is a good candidate!

How can you foresee that they will be the right fit within your swim school culture?

Do they come from a background of people instilling good habits and values? We ask them to tell us what their 3 top values are. Are their values reflective of our values?

Here are subtle indicators but ones that can tell you a lot about a person:
Did they introduce themselves when they came in?
Did they conduct themselves in a professional manner?
Did they thank you when they left?

The interviewing process is the most crucial for your business. If you find the right fit, that will definitely reduce your instructor turn over so it is okay to be selective within the interviewing process to find the right match!