Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Running • Wind Shadow • COLREGS

Wind Shadow

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

Wind Shadow is a sailing term that describes the area of reduced wind created behind a sail, boat, or other object that blocks the wind. Think of it like a wind umbrella - just as a building creates a calm area behind it on a windy day, a sail creates a similar effect on the water. Understanding wind shadows is crucial for sailing instructors because it affects how boats perform during lessons, racing, and general sailing. Instructors need to know how to teach students to avoid getting caught in another boat's wind shadow during races, and how to use wind shadows strategically when teaching sailing techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Taught advanced racing techniques including Wind Shadow management to competitive youth sailors

Created curriculum explaining Wind Shadow effects for beginner sailing courses

Led race strategy workshops focusing on Wind Shadow tactics and positioning

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Coach Racing Coach Maritime Instructor Waterfront Director Sailing Program Director Race Team Coach

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a curriculum to teach wind shadow effects to different skill levels?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should explain how they would break down the concept for different age groups and skill levels, using visual aids, on-water demonstrations, and progressive learning techniques. They should mention safety considerations and how to incorporate this into broader sailing education.

Q: How do you train other instructors to teach wind shadow concepts?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership ability by explaining mentor techniques, training methods, and how to ensure consistent teaching across a sailing program. Should include assessment methods and common teaching challenges.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What practical exercises do you use to demonstrate wind shadow effects to students?

Expected Answer: Should describe specific on-water drills, teaching techniques, and safety considerations when demonstrating wind shadow effects. Should include how to adjust teaching methods for different weather conditions.

Q: How do you teach students to use wind shadow tactically in racing?

Expected Answer: Should explain progression from basic concepts to advanced tactical applications, including practice exercises and how to teach decision-making in race situations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what a wind shadow is in simple terms?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the concept clearly using simple language and examples that beginners can understand, demonstrating basic knowledge of how wind interacts with sails.

Q: How do you identify when a boat is in a wind shadow?

Expected Answer: Should describe visible signs like sail luffing, decreased boat speed, and changes in wind indicators, showing basic understanding of wind shadow effects.