Closeout
A closeout is a surfing term that describes a wave that breaks all at once along its length, instead of peeling or breaking gradually from one end to the other. For surfing instructors, understanding closeouts is crucial because these waves are typically unsuitable for teaching and can be dangerous for beginners. When reviewing resumes for surfing positions, seeing this term indicates that the candidate understands wave conditions and safety considerations, which are essential skills for effective instruction.
Examples in Resumes
Trained beginner surfers to identify and avoid closeout waves for safety
Developed assessment methods to quickly identify closeouts and redirect students to safer wave locations
Created safety protocols for dealing with closeout conditions during group lessons
Typical job title: "Surf Instructors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Surf Instructors
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you assess wave conditions to determine if they're suitable for different skill levels?
Expected Answer: A senior instructor should explain their process for evaluating wave height, frequency of closeouts, current patterns, and how they match these conditions to student abilities. They should also discuss how they communicate these assessments to other instructors.
Q: What's your approach to managing multiple classes when conditions include frequent closeouts?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of alternative teaching locations, backup lesson plans, and ability to coordinate with other instructors to ensure student safety and learning continues despite challenging conditions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you explain closeouts to beginner students?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe simple, clear ways to help students identify closeouts and explain why they're dangerous, using basic terms that newcomers can understand.
Q: What safety protocols do you follow when closeout conditions develop during a lesson?
Expected Answer: Should outline clear steps for moving students to safer areas, monitoring changing conditions, and maintaining group control during transitions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the visual indicators of a closeout wave?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic signs of a closeout wave and explain why they're not suitable for beginner lessons.
Q: What's the first thing you do when you notice waves are closing out?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic safety awareness and knowledge of when to move students to different areas or modify the lesson plan.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic wave condition assessment
- Understanding of closeout dangers
- Basic safety protocols
- Simple teaching techniques
Mid (2-4 years)
- Advanced condition assessment
- Group management in varying conditions
- Emergency response procedures
- Adaptation of lesson plans
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert wave forecasting
- Training other instructors
- Program development
- Risk management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic wave dynamics
- No formal surf instruction certification
- Lack of emergency response training
- Poor communication skills
- No experience with student assessment
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