Top tips for diving instructors: Communication (especially the difficult kind)

Dive instructors face challenges with student expectations. Some students believe payment equals certification. It’s crucial to set clear expectations early in the course. Explain the reasons behind certification standards for safety and competence. Use positive language when delivering tough news and be empathetic but firm. Address the misconception that everyone gets certified in the same time frame. Lastly, instructors should reflect on their discomfort about these conversations to ensure safety is the priority.