Working as a PADI® Divemaster is more than just knowledge, training, skills, practice and the obvious safety mindedness; it’s about having the right attitude to give every diver the best underwater experience, every time.

So when looking for the right PADI Divemaster, you’ll need to look for someone that is:

1. Fun. Aside from safety, being fun is one of the most important things a PADI Divemaster can bring to someone’s scuba experience. Diving should be enjoyable, not boot camp, so look for someone who makes guests feel relaxed and happy — before, during, and after!
2. Patient. We were all newbies once, and skills that we find easy may take a novice several tries to get right. To help them, find a Divemaster that doesn’t rush them; and instead, breaks things down into smaller, more manageable steps.
3. Adaptable. Every diver is different. Some like visual aids, while others prefer a hands-on approach. They could have learning or physical challenges. They might favor formality, or not. Finding a Divemaster that is adaptable is imperative to having a team that can handle the needs of every type of diver.
4. Selfless. Yes, leading divers and working underwater is a dream job for potential PADI Divemasters, but it is also work! While on the clock, the guests’ interests must come first. No sulking because they wanted to photograph nudibranchs instead of hanging out with whale sharks (or vice versa!)
5. Meticulous. Helping divers with paperwork, checking PADI Standards, fixing equipment, and spotting risks while underwater are just a few of many tasks which need excellent focus and observational skills. Safety is paramount, so there’s no room for cutting corners.
6. Hardworking. Days can be long, intense, and both physically and mentally demanding — with little time off in between. Every dive operation is a team effort, and everyone needs to play their part — from helping students, to filling tanks and manning the shop.
7. Respectful. PADI Divemasters frequently assist PADI Instructors to teach courses, so having a PADI Divemaster that is dutiful and respectful to the instructor is paramount in conducting a successful course. If they are itching to conduct the session themselves, then it could be time for them to take a PADI Instructor Development Course.
8. Calm. It’s not uncommon for students to be anxious, especially if they’re about to try something new. A Divemaster’s ability to stay calm — even when things aren’t going to plan — will help prevent routine nerves from turning into a panic.
9. Positive. A person’s energy can realty impact a dive operation. Finding someone that brings positivity instead of negativity will make every dive experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. Not every dive earns a gold star, but focusing on positives gives everyone a reason to want to come back and do it again.
10. Professional. Whether it’s being presentable and punctual for work, being polite to guests (even when they’re not extending the same courtesy), or being a role model above and below the surface, it’s essential to find someone that will take pride in their title of PADI Professional.

If you’re looking to recruit a PADI Divemaster, head over to the PADI Pros’ Employment Board to post an employment opportunity. Or, if you’d like to recruit a diver in your area to train up your own homegrown Divemaster, use the Divemaster Toolkit for access to assets and templates for help with getting the word out.

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Business of Diving / Business Support, Divemaster, PADI DivemasterPADI Pros