Here are the my dos and don'ts. Add yours in the comments.
Do be a cheerleader
I can’t tell you how nice it is to work at a mountain where the instructors are incredibly supportive. Chats, Facebook posts, text messages and hugs are awesome.
Don’t ask, don’t tell
It’s a standard practice for me to keep my feedback to myself unless I’m asked or I’m teaching a clinic. It’s particularly important to give frequently picked on exam candidates a break.
Do bring the fun and change the subject
Exam candidates can often get in to the “all exam, all the time” mode. Sometimes they need to be reminded that skiing is fun. Encourage them to take a “burner” from the top to the bottom of the mountain.
Do keep your doubts to your self
Candidates often are fraught with self doubt. They don’t need any from outside sources.
Do offer suggestions and perspective, but gently
It's easy for a candidate to loose perspective (they're all picking on me, I'm not getting any support) or get stuck and not know where to get help. Gentle nudges can really help. More significant nudges may be necessary.
Do avoid the subject of an unsuccessful exam
All you need to say is something to the effect of “I’m sorry," "that sucks," or "I think you're a great teacher and skier.” Let them decide if they want to talk about it.
Do be a cheerleader
I can’t tell you how nice it is to work at a mountain where the instructors are incredibly supportive. Chats, Facebook posts, text messages and hugs are awesome.
Don’t ask, don’t tell
It’s a standard practice for me to keep my feedback to myself unless I’m asked or I’m teaching a clinic. It’s particularly important to give frequently picked on exam candidates a break.
Do bring the fun and change the subject
Exam candidates can often get in to the “all exam, all the time” mode. Sometimes they need to be reminded that skiing is fun. Encourage them to take a “burner” from the top to the bottom of the mountain.
Do keep your doubts to your self
Candidates often are fraught with self doubt. They don’t need any from outside sources.
Do offer suggestions and perspective, but gently
It's easy for a candidate to loose perspective (they're all picking on me, I'm not getting any support) or get stuck and not know where to get help. Gentle nudges can really help. More significant nudges may be necessary.
Do avoid the subject of an unsuccessful exam
All you need to say is something to the effect of “I’m sorry," "that sucks," or "I think you're a great teacher and skier.” Let them decide if they want to talk about it.
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