Jibing

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

Jibing (also spelled "gybing") is a fundamental sailing maneuver where a sailboat changes direction by turning its stern (back of the boat) through the wind. It's like making a turn in a car, but specific to sailing when the wind is behind the boat. This is a crucial skill that all sailors need to master, as it's one of the two main ways to change direction while sailing (the other being tacking). When you see this term in a resume, it indicates that the candidate has experience teaching or performing this important sailing technique.

Examples in Resumes

Taught jibing and gybing techniques to beginner sailing students

Certified instructor for advanced jibing maneuvers in heavy weather conditions

Led weekly sailing clinics focusing on safe jibing procedures for groups of 10+ students

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Coach Waterfront Director Marine Instructor Boating Teacher Yacht Instructor Water Sports Instructor

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you teach a group of instructors to effectively demonstrate jibing to their students?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should discuss breaking down the maneuver into teachable steps, safety considerations, common student mistakes, and how to adapt teaching methods for different skill levels and weather conditions.

Q: What is your approach to teaching jibing in challenging weather conditions?

Expected Answer: Should explain risk assessment, safety protocols, when to postpone training, and how to modify the teaching approach based on wind and water conditions while maintaining student confidence.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the most common mistakes students make when learning to jibe, and how do you address them?

Expected Answer: Should identify typical errors like poor timing, incorrect positioning, and inappropriate sail handling, and explain their teaching methods to correct these issues.

Q: How do you ensure safety during jibing practice sessions?

Expected Answer: Should discuss preparation steps, safety equipment, student readiness assessment, and clear communication protocols during the maneuver.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic steps of a jibe?

Expected Answer: Should be able to clearly explain the fundamental steps of jibing in simple terms, including preparation, execution, and completion of the maneuver.

Q: What safety considerations are most important when teaching jibing to beginners?

Expected Answer: Should mention basics like wearing life jackets, checking weather conditions, clear communication, and proper briefing before practice.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic sailing maneuvers including jibing
  • Safety protocols and equipment use
  • Basic weather awareness
  • Simple teaching techniques

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced jibing techniques
  • Group instruction methods
  • Weather pattern interpretation
  • Emergency response procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training program development
  • Advanced sailing instruction
  • Risk management
  • Instructor mentoring

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal sailing certification
  • Limited knowledge of safety procedures
  • Inability to explain jibing in simple terms
  • Lack of hands-on teaching experience