TRAINING continued potential for harm, the parents would remove it. In fact, this became known as the “lawn mower parent” or “snow- plow parent,” because the parent would prepare the path for the child, instead of preparing the child for the path. And with 24/7 news networks, radio, podcasts and social media, parents and children are flooded with negativity. In fact, exposure to information is at an all-time high, but a staggering 86% of media includes negativity. This leads to fear and fuels the “most anxious generation” narrative. THAT’S what’s with these kids today! So, what are we as dive professionals and dive business owners to do with Gen Z? I say EMBRACE THEM by being a mentor in their life. To be a great Gen Z mentor, first, please read two books: Generation Z Unfiltered by Tim Elmore and An- drew McPeak; and The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt. These books are game changers on how to understand and then how to work with Gen Z. They will open your mind to the tools and talents this generation possesses, as well as steering you clear of the pitfalls often encountered by Boomers and Gen X when interacting with Gen Z. Whether prospective students or prospective staff, here are some strategies you can apply to Gen Z: Prospective Students They want the authentic and will research to find it ▪
Pitch anti-anxiety benefits of diving ▪ They seek discounts ▪ They do not want education nor safety compromised ▪ for less costs They are quick academic learners ▪ They may be less skilled, but are willing to better ▪ themselves They prefer in-person communication ▪ Prospective Staff They are quick learners ▪ They need clear guidance on procedures ▪ DO NOT underestimate their abilities - they crave ▪ challenges Many want to be entrepreneurs ▪ Service learning is important to them ▪ Mentor them - be the parent/coach they did not have ▪ I can personally attest to all of the above strategies. Working in an academic institution, my entire customer base is Gen Z, and these strategies work. Not only do they work, but the Gen Z’ers thrive. So much so, that our last Divemaster class had 17 candidates! When was the last
time you had 17 Divemaster candidates? Em- brace this generation, use your experience and your talents to mentor them, and just watch them blossom.
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