Top 3 lifeguard job interview tips

A lifeguard job interview is just the beginning of one of the most fun, rewarding and profitable summer jobs that a young adult can have. From tanning in the sun to learning lifesaving skills, lifeguarding proves to be a gratifying way to earn money during the warm summer months. But before you can take a seat in a lifeguard chair, you must apply, interview and train. Interviewing for a job like lifeguarding may seem a bit intimidating, possibly even terrifying, so here are some tips that will help ease your lifeguard job interview anxiety.

1. Be confident. If you do not believe in yourself, no one will. Before the lifeguard job interview begins, take a few deep breaths and relax. Being calm will be important for a successful interview, but it will also show the recruitment officer that you can stay calm and focused in a stressful situation.
2. Be polite. Lifeguards interact with a variety of pool goers on a daily basis, so being personable and respectful to the interviewer is a must. Even if you are young, you will need to conduct yourself in a mature manner. The recruiter will see that you can interact with people professionally and respectfully, no matter the situation.
3. Dress up. Be sure to dress in appropriate attire for a lifeguard job interview. Even though you are applying for a job that only requires casual attire, it is smart to dress in a clean and professional manner to put your best foot forward – without the flip flops.

Still nervous about the lifeguard job interview?

Programs like Guard for Life, an American Pool lifeguard program, help to decrease interviewing anxiety by hosting open house events. With other applicants around you, you will soon forget the stress of your interview. “Open houses allow you to get to know the staff and other lifeguards that are applying in your area,” according to Steve Farley, Coordinating Director of Lifeguard Recruiting for American Pool Enterprises. Steve contests that an open house is a good way to “take care of your in-person lifeguard job interview and your paperwork all at the same event. Some of our Guard for Life locations offer door prizes or uniform discounts at these events.”

In the end, everyone has to go through the same process. Although the thought of interviewing for a job as a lifeguard can be stressful, it is well worth the effort. Remember to be confident, polite and presentable. Also, be on the lookout for open house events where you can meet the staff and other lifeguards. You’ll see that securing a job as a lifeguard isn’t so scary after all.