Lee Helm

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

Lee helm is a common sailing term that refers to a boat's tendency to turn into the wind. Understanding and managing lee helm is a crucial skill for sailing instructors and professional sailors. When reviewing resumes, this term indicates that a candidate has advanced sailing knowledge and understands boat handling characteristics. This is similar to understanding concepts like weather helm or neutral helm, which are all important aspects of boat balance and control. Candidates who mention lee helm typically have experience in boat trimming, sail adjustment, and teaching these concepts to students.

Examples in Resumes

Taught advanced sailing concepts including lee helm management to certification students

Developed curriculum covering lee helm correction techniques for beginner sailors

Conducted workshops on sail trim and lee helm characteristics for racing crews

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Coach Maritime Instructor Boat Handling Instructor Keelboat Instructor Racing Coach Sailing School Teacher

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a curriculum to teach lee helm concepts to beginners?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should describe breaking down complex concepts into simple steps, using visual aids, practical demonstrations, and hands-on exercises. They should mention safety considerations and progressive learning approaches.

Q: How do you assess and correct lee helm in different boat types?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of various boat designs, sail trim techniques, and weight distribution. Should explain how to teach these concepts to other instructors.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain how weather conditions affect lee helm.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the relationship between wind strength, sail trim, and helm balance in straightforward terms. Should include practical examples from teaching experience.

Q: What safety considerations do you teach regarding lee helm?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety protocols, common mistakes to watch for, and how to help students recognize and respond to lee helm conditions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is lee helm and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain lee helm in simple terms and describe its basic impact on boat handling and safety.

Q: How do you demonstrate lee helm to new students?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic teaching techniques and simple demonstrations used to help beginners understand the concept.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of helm balance
  • Simple sail trimming techniques
  • Basic teaching methods
  • Safety protocols

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced sail trim knowledge
  • Various boat type experience
  • Student assessment abilities
  • Weather condition analysis

Senior (5+ years)

  • Curriculum development
  • Advanced teaching techniques
  • Multiple certification types
  • Instructor training abilities

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of hands-on sailing experience
  • No formal sailing certifications
  • Unable to explain basic sailing concepts clearly
  • Limited knowledge of safety procedures