Get More from Less: Performance Management Series (Part 3 of 4): Engagement
Another element to use to get the most out of your lifeguards is to make sure that they are completely engaged in their tasks when on duty. This is not an easy task when the majority of the time is spent scanning the pool—which any lifeguard will tell you can be a pretty boring job. But engagement is essential—a lifeguard that spends hours at a time sitting bored in the lifeguard stand won’t be ready to identify a guest in distress and react when an emergency occurs.
So first, keep shifts as short as possible; optimally no more than thirty minutes without a break from scanning, and at least a ten minute break every hour. Next, train guards to be vigilant during operational hours. This includes visual or video audits of the guards, but more importantly, this means getting the lifeguards out of the chair and moving. Every guard should expect to get wet every day, whether it is performing a staged rescue, recovering the manikin or silhouette, or participating in a drill or quick exercise. The tasks should be performed randomly, so that lifeguards are always on their toes, rescue ready, waiting to make the next rescue—whether it is staged or real.
Lifeguard engagement can be achieved off the guard stand as well, and can also help to improve your staff retention from season to season and from year to year. Use in-service and staff meeting time to foster a team atmosphere among the lifeguards. This can be accomplished through the addition of team building exercises, games, and social activities. Make sure the guards know that the success or failure of one guard means a success or failure for all, and that each guard must be accountable to his or her peers. Set clear standards and goals for each individual guard and the entire staff to strive to reach during a season. These steps provide an incentive for the staff to come to work, day after day and year after year to be part of the team, and to be with their friends—and not to let their teammates and friends down when they are on duty.
Please post your comments, questions, or methods you like to motivate and engage your guards. I look forward to your feedback. Thanks!