by David G. Bryan

Presented by Mauri Pro Sailing

*David Bryan has been the General Manager at the Boston Sailing Center for 22 years, and has numerous sailing accolades including winning the Mallory Cup in 2002.  He steps out of his usual role to provide some insight for Airwaves readers on getting that “temporary” job.

I remember graduation was approaching, everyone I knew had interviews lined up but my heart wasn’t in it. I credit Northeastern’s co-op program for helping me decide what I didn’t want to do but needed some time to find the right career choice. I had taught sailing on a lake in NJ and really enjoyed it, so I started looking for a summer sailing job in Boston. A friend told me about the Boston Sailing Center and now, more than 20 years later, I’m still at my temporary summer job.

Back then, other than word of mouth, you looked in the Yellow Pages to find a school and then called to see if they were hiring. It’s amazing what is available now. In addition to checking a businesses’ employment section on their site, there are always marine industry ads on various publications, and of course, Sail 1 Design.

While I don’t have a lot of experience looking for marine jobs I have done a fair amount of hiring, especially during my run as head sailing instructor.  Below I hope to provide some quick general advice, tips, and tricks for anyone looking to break into the industry.

Your Resume;

Even though employers in the Sailing Industry may be less formal, a resume is still extremely important. I have had some job seekers stop by without a resume and want to interview on the spot. There’s a big difference between stating your experience verbally as opposed to leaving a written version that can be referred to with other members of the hiring staff. Plus, when it comes to sailing experience, it’s easy to sound like you’re bragging. Better to let your resume do the talking.

If you really want the job, take your time to rework your resume if needed. How hard is it to change that objective that doesn’t match or add your sailing experience? It can be difficult to get past “Objective: Engineering Technician”.

Think about how your non sailing work experience might apply. For instructors, I am looking for excellent sailing skills as well as good communication skills. Make sure any relevant skills standout on your resume.  Winning championships is great, but experience teaching others is better.

Tell it like it is. This may go against the prevailing resume writing advice, but I like a resume to be very straight forward. Too many times I see good work experience become almost comical from action words and the like.

The Interview;

Over the years I have tried different procedures for interviewing and testing sailing skills. Originally, I would do a sit down interview followed by a single handed sailing test. I eventually shortened the sit down portion and would continue the interview while sailing. It’s a great way to see if someone can stay relaxed while sailing through a crowded mooring field and carry on a conversation.

It always amazes me that people will apply for a sailing instructor job who don’t really know how to sail. It’s always difficult when you realize someone doesn’t have the skills shortly after leaving the mooring.  Don’t waste your time or the organizations if your abilities don’t match what they’re advertising for.

References;

I like to see references sent in with the resume. If we are getting to the final stage and decide to check references, “furnished upon request” can slow the process.  Showing references early show me that you’ve held other similar jobs, and you’re confident that your previous employer will speak well of you.  I’ve had instances of provided references talking me out of a hire, so make sure you really know who you’re putting on there!

A job in the marine business can be very rewarding but be ready to answer the “when are you going to get a real job” question. You should also make sure you have an answer for Winter.

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