Multi-faceted Instructors; How To Be A Diamond Of The Industry

Relief. You've just passed your scuba instructor examinations and earned the coveted title of Open Water Instructor. You are brimming with passion and energy. But what do you do now? How do you set yourself apart from the crowd to secure the ultimate diving job? Here are some top tips from inside the industry to help you get started:

Languages
The scuba diving industry is international and dive vacations are a major part of the market. Whether you will be working abroad in a dive resort, or welcoming visitors from around the world, a major benefit is being able to teach diving courses fluently in different languages. Have a look at PADI's professional employment boards to get an idea of the languages that are most beneficial to you.

Mechanical/Servicing Skills
Many dive resorts and centers are in remote areas, where the employees need to know how to fix things. Boat mechanics, dive equipment servicing, and compressor maintenance are all highly valuable skills and will definitely put you at the top of the CV pile. Enroll in as many servicing courses as you can through your affiliated employer.

Sales
A background in sales is very advantageous. Many centers will have a retail area and often this is a major sector of the company. Having the right attitude will really help you, as well as being knowledgeable about dive equipment. Keep up with advancing technology and offer suggestions based on listening to what the customer wants and needs - car salesmen need not apply! You will impress your boss with long-term loyal customers if you are doing it right.

Instructor Specialties
As you already know, diving is a self-evolving sport that allows divers to progress into various specialty areas that they find interesting. Being able to offer and conduct extra certification courses, not only increases your enjoyment, but also increases the profit margins for your dive center. Keep your eye on trends in the industry to stay up-to-date with what specialties clients are interested in, so you can offer what they want.

Technical Diving
The last few years have seen the predominantly recreational diving industry embrace the realm of technical diving. The development of new Tec certification courses, advancing technology and equipment, and relatively widespread ease of getting gas mixes have bolstered this section of the industry. If you are certified to blend gases, have experience in various technical diving environments, or can teach a range of Tec courses - these will all add to your flexibility and worth.

Photography/Videography
Divers love taking photos and having photos taken of them! Whether it is offered as a complimentary service or the option of buying underwater videos or photos to remember the trip with. Liveaboards and resorts commonly offer these services. The ability to teach divers how to use their cameras correctly underwater is an extremely popular certification course. There is an ever-widening market with the development of low cost, point-and-shoot underwater cameras.

Writing, Marketing and PR
Dive instructors who are trained writers or have a background in marketing and PR are exceptionally useful in a dive center. From press releases and website content writing, to advertising and newsletters, there are many areas that can be developed by a trained specialist. Being able to fulfill a "topside" job is practical time use for when you are not diving.

Personality
As a role model you constantly influence divers with your actions - your personality, passion, and character is undoubtedly important. Dive instructors are hard workers that lead from the front in all situations. Scuba diving is a fun activity ; however, when called for, being able to differentiate between fun and serious topics will generate diver confidence and reflect on your professionalism. Having a naturally friendly outlook, assisting divers without judgment, and being adaptable are all traits that will make you a diamond among dive instructors. Most importantly, bring your own personality! You are the superstar and divers will look up to you and emulate you.

All of these elements will make you stand out from the crowd when applying for diving jobs. However, a word from experience - do not sell yourself short. There are lots of people who will work for nearly nothing, but remember that you have invested your time, education, and money into a serious career as a dive instructor. This will show on your job application and good dive operators and business owners will appreciate that.