Summer Job Skills

Summer jobs come in various shapes and sizes, but one job that fits nearly anyone is that of a lifeguard. While it does require specific training and certifications, those are readily available, don’t take a lot of time to get, and are offered through organizations like Continental Pools.

The most obvious advantages to being a lifeguard are that you get paid to sit poolside all summer; there are a lot of openings at both private and public pools; and pools are open all day every day so there is a lot of flexibility with hours. Additionally, there are many life skills to be gained by being a lifeguard and those translate to other career fields. Let’s explore how a summer job as a lifeguard can prepare you for a full-time career:

It doesn’t matter if you’re a scientist, a kindergarten teacher, or an accountant, you will have to communicate with other people in some capacity. Working as a lifeguard teaches you how to communicate with a variety of different people. You’ll have to help pool patrons (adults and children) understand the rules. You’ll need to communicate safety tips when you see someone in a potentially unsafe situation. You will have to communicate calmly and clearly in emergency situations. You’ll have to always put the best face forward for your pool by communicating in a way that is positive and engaging.

Lifeguards are required to be certified in first aid, AED, and CPR at a minimum and those certifications need to be regularly updated. With these on your resume, you are showing a potential employer that you are willing to put in the time and develop the skills necessary to do a job correctly. It indicates a commitment to excellence and growth in your career field. If you’re willing to do this much training for a summer job, surely you’d be willing to do it for a full-time job.

Many lifeguard also have cash-handling responsibilities. Whether it is collecting entrance fees or working a poolside concession stand, you’ll probably have to be accountable for safe and accurate money handling duties. Your future employer will be glad to know you can be trusted with this level of responsibility.

Lifeguards are always on alert for the safety of pool patrons. When they see a dangerous situation, they must act quickly, calmly, and decisively. Those are great skills for any occupation. Employers like knowing they can count on you to keep a cool head in a crisis and take appropriate action when necessary.

A summer job as a lifeguard is a fantastic opportunity to build transferable skills that help you succeed in any future career field. In addition to being a great way to build your bank account, being a lifeguard means being a true professional.