Lip
A lip is the topmost part of a breaking wave where it curls over before crashing. For surfing instructors and professionals, understanding wave lips is crucial because they indicate wave power and determine various surfing maneuvers. Like how a chef needs to know about different cooking techniques, surf instructors must understand wave lips to teach students about safety, timing, and advanced moves. When you see this term in a resume, it usually refers to the candidate's ability to teach students about wave dynamics and performing maneuvers involving the wave's lip.
Examples in Resumes
Taught advanced students techniques for navigating the lip in overhead conditions
Developed safety protocols for beginner surfers to avoid lip impact zones
Created video tutorials explaining lip reading techniques for intermediate surfers
Typical job title: "Surf Instructors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Surf Instructors
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you assess wave conditions to determine if the lip is suitable for different skill levels?
Expected Answer: A senior instructor should explain how they evaluate wave height, power, and lip shape to match conditions with student abilities, emphasizing safety considerations and backup plans for varying conditions.
Q: Describe your approach to teaching advanced students about lip maneuvers.
Expected Answer: Should discuss progressive teaching methods, safety protocols, and how they break down complex lip-based maneuvers into manageable steps for students.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you explain lip reading to intermediate students?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe how they teach students to anticipate wave behavior by observing the lip, using simple language and practical demonstrations.
Q: What safety protocols do you implement when teaching in powerful lip conditions?
Expected Answer: Should discuss risk assessment, student preparation, emergency procedures, and clear communication methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic safety considerations when teaching beginners about wave lips?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic wave dynamics, safety zones, and how to keep beginners away from dangerous lip impacts.
Q: How do you identify different types of wave lips?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic wave formations, different types of breaks, and how lips vary in different conditions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic wave dynamics understanding
- Fundamental safety protocols
- Teaching in small wave conditions
- Basic lip identification
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced wave reading
- Teaching intermediate maneuvers
- Emergency response procedures
- Group management in varying conditions
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert wave condition assessment
- Advanced maneuver instruction
- Curriculum development
- Instructor training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic wave dynamics
- Lack of safety certification
- No experience teaching different skill levels
- Poor understanding of weather and ocean conditions
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