How much do you think this lifeguard job should pay?

"I am currently earning $15/hour and am up for a raise to $16/hour in the next couple of months. My ideal salary is $17-19/hour plus health benefits, which I believe is a fair ask for this role."

This question is merely another way for the interviewer to ask about your desired pay for this role. Be honest about what you are hoping to make, but you should also avoid asking for too little, or for too much. Using an online salary calculating tool, like the ones from Glassdoor or Indeed, will help you to determine the average ask for your position, years of experience, and even location. You can also use your current salary as part of the basis for your ask.

"I am newer to my lifeguarding career, so I performed some research on the topic, hoping to gain an understanding of the average pay for a receptionist in this area. The ranges I saw were $11-14/hour depending on experience. Do you have an amount in mind for this position?"

"Honestly, this is going to be my first job in the U.S. I would say you decide what's best and fair depending on my experiences."

What is your first reaction when you do something wrong at work?

"My first reaction when I do something wrong at work is to own it. How can anything be repaired if nobody even has a chance to fix it on time? That would be my line of thinking if a mistake were to occur."

How you react to an error made will tell the interviewer a great deal about you and your honesty level, and willingness to be accountable for your actions. Perhaps the mistake is one that could land you in a lot of trouble. Would you try to hide the incident, or would you tell a supervisor right away, and have the situation rectified?

"I would never hide something or cover up a mistake just for the sake of saving face. I am an honest and upfront person."

"I feel bad and disappointed in myself, but I will try and learn from my mistake. I will report it to my supervisor right away. In that case we can talk about it and solve the problem."

Our facility is open evenings, weekends, and holidays. Can you commit to a flexible work schedule?

"If you need overtime in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever I can. My only restriction is that I cannot work Wednesday nights as I have an evening course those days."

Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask! Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations. If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you. Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week.

"As a lifeguard, I anticipate working over 40 hours per week, especially around school breaks and the summer holidays. Could you share with me the expectations for this role?"

"I am looking for the right schedule based on my availability since I have to drop my son off at school around 8:30 am and pick him up around 3:30 pm. Between those hours are my free time during weekdays."

How do you handle working with little to no supervision?

"I am a reliable employee who works hard, no matter who is watching. You can rest assured that I deliver great work at all times. Would you say that this role is loosely, or more closely, supervised?"

Little supervision often comes after some time, when trust is well established between yourself and your employer. The interviewer would like to know if you have worked in an environment that offers little amounts of supervision. Primarily, they are looking for proof that you can be productive even when nobody is watching or supervising you. Be sure to ask the interviewer about the level of supervision in this particular role. You want to make sure it's a good fit for you.

"Lifeguarding at a recreation facility, there is a lot of close supervision especially when I work the same shifts as the facilities manager. With that said, I am a hard worker and would have no issues when it comes to working more independently. I will deliver more than my base expectations, regardless of the supervision level. How would you describe the level of supervision in this role?"

"I worked in the SCUBA diving industry for a long time in the Philippines. I mostly took an individual or a group of divers. I gave them a briefing before and after diving to make sure everything is okay. I am hardworking and take full responsibility for my job."

What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?

"I was very proud when I achieved my first employee of the month award. I had worked hard on completing additional lifeguard emergency response training, so it was nice to get recognition for my hard work."

The professional achievement you provide may or may not link directly to your experience as a lifeguard. Either way, the interviewer would like for you to indicate what you are proud of, and why your accomplishments mean something to you. Show that success motivates you and that you strive for greatness in your career.

"My greatest professional achievement was when I completed my CPR Level C, allowing me to become an on-site trainer for junior lifeguards. I love to teach and train so that accomplishment opened up some exciting opportunities for me."

"I am proud to say having my own business in the Philippines is my greatest achievement. I became successful because of all my hard work, patience and determination. Having my lifeguard certificate is my latest achievement that opens a new opportunity for me."

Do you have experience creating accident reports or filling out medical forms? Why is proper documentation important?

"I have helped with about four incident reports this year, related to swimming accidents. My facilities manager completed the form, but I observed what she was documenting. I also contributed when I could as I was a key witness to each of these events. Proper forms ensure that we meet our legal and medical requirements."

If you have ever encountered an accident or medical emergency while lifeguarding, you have had to fill out an incident report of some sort. This documentation is for medical and legal purposes, so it is essential that you are accurate and thorough. Confirm with the interviewer that you understand the importance of proper documentation and paperwork when an incident occurs.

"In my current role as a lead lifeguard, I am responsible for reviewing all submitted incident reports. Once received, I then analyze to ensure they are completed correctly. I pull out any key information and use it for further training of my team and other lifeguards in our facility. It is vital, in all instances, that we record every detail we can remember, to meet our legal obligations."

"I helped to document the incident reports when I was a dive master. I made sure we had the proper documentation, kept good records and met legal and medical requirements."

As a lifeguard, you are required to be observant of your surroundings. Can you tell me of a time when you have spotted a hazard or prevented an accident?

"Just last week, I was getting on a bus, when the lady ahead of me got the belt of her coat stuck in the door. I tapped her on the shoulder to let her know, as I was worried if she went any further she may end up getting hurt or stuck. She was appreciative that I noticed and told her. I am not one for keeping my face in my phone in public situations, and do consider myself to be observant on and off the job."

The purpose of this question is to identify if you possess the observation skills required to be a successful lifeguard. The interviewer would like for you to confirm a time when you have detected a hazard and prevented an accident due to your keen observation. Your example can come from work or a personal setting. Be sure to tell the story, with a focus on the positive outcome.

"While lifeguarding this summer, I noticed a child who was looking around the pool. He wasn't making a scene, but he appeared worried. I approached the child, and he told me that he couldn't see his mom. I asked him to come out of the pool and stand at the lifeguard station with me. I asked our admin to announce over the PA so he could be reconnected with his parent. Although the child was technically not lost and wasn't panicking, I am happy that I noticed the concern on his face before panic set in."

"My colleague and I handled a group of divers in a dive safari. Our last dive was strong current, and I noticed that she was struggling with her finning. I could see in her eyes that she needed help. I went to her and made a hand signal to ask if she was okay. She responded that she was not okay. I gave my colleague a hand signal that I would take her to the surface, and he will continue diving with the rest of the group. I didn't waste any time and took her to the clinic. She had decompression sickness. I am happy that I saved my diver's life before anything really bad happened."

As a lifeguard, you will be working around children and other vulnerable groups. Are you willing to provide a background check?

"I have been around children since I was a teen, working as an assistant camp counselor in the summers. I have had to perform a criminal background check every year. For this role, I am happy to comply with any police checks you require."

The answer to this question should always be 'yes'! Most lifeguarding positions will require you to pass a criminal background check. It's best if you can come to your interview with a copy of your police check with you; however, if you did not have the foresight to do so before your meeting, the next best thing is to offer this to the hiring authority eagerly.

"I went ahead and purchased a copy of my police background check for you. Please keep this copy for your records. Should there be any other background checks you require of me, I am happy to comply."

"Yes. I have my police check, and I can give you a copy."

Have you ever administered First Aid? Does the sight of cuts, scrapes, and blood bother you?

"In my three years' experience as a lifeguard, I have encountered a fractured arm, multiple broken noses, and a few gashes which required me to stop the bleeding until a medic could come and administer stitches. I can assure you that I can handle a variety of situations, and deliver first aid without becoming queasy or bothered by the sight of blood."

The hiring authority knows it's one thing to be first-aid trained, and another thing to actually administer first-aid. Discuss with the interviewer any exposure you have had to cuts, scrapes, blood, or other injuries. You should assure the interviewer that you are not queasy at the sight of an injury and that you can act professionally and appropriately in a medical situation.

"I have been first-aid certified for a couple of years and, although I have never needed to administer it, I am sure that the sight of blood and other injuries is something I can handle. I have three younger siblings and have seen my share of nosebleeds and nasty scrapes from falling off bikes. It's never bothered me."

"Yes, I have administered first aid before. As a dive master, we should be able to take responsibility for giving first aid to our guest when needed. The sight of cuts, scrapes, and blood did not bother me at all. I encountered someone crashed on a motorbike, and I helped him clean and dress his cuts and scrapes."

Tell me about the type of team members you dislike working with.

"I prefer to work with those who are punctual, reliable, and can take accountability for their workload. With that said, I understand that I can only be responsible for my work ethic, so I do not allow any delinquent co-workers to affect my performance."

You will not always be fond of the people you are collaborating with; however, the interviewer needs to know that any inherent dislike will not affect your job performance. Keep your answer positive and focus on your ability to self-manage despite team members who may drag you down.

"I certainly prefer to work with like-minded people who are go-getters and understand the meaning of hard work. It can be frustrating to work with people who have no drive or are lazy in general, but I ignore them and go about my day."

"The type of team members I dislike working with are those who are irresponsible, taking advantage of work time when no one is supervising him or her and being judgemental. I make sure it won't affect me when it comes to work because we are responsible for our guests all the time. They count on us on their safety."

Do you have experience with overall pool hygiene, testing and regulating water temperature, PH levels, and chlorine?

"In my current role I assist our maintenance team by testing the chemical levels every hour. We have a strict system for this, in which I have been fully trained. Commercial pools can see many changes in a day, depending on factors such as the hygiene of the swimmers and how many people are using the facility on any given day. I understand that it's critical to remain on top of these levels, for the safety of everyone using the pool."

Part of your role as a lifeguard may be ensuring that the pool levels are sanitary and safe. Discuss with the interviewer any training and experience you have with PH levels, chlorine levels, and water temperature. If you do not have training in these areas, you can express that you are eager and willing to learn.

"I look forward to formal training in this area, seeing as the experience I bring in pool maintenance is limited. I do; however, understand that most commercial pools need monitoring at least once per hour. Hygiene and health are significant factors to the success of your business, and I will do my part in reinforcing your sanitation processes."

"Honestly speaking, I do not have experience with pool hygiene, testing and regulating water temperature, PH levels, and chlorine but I am eager and willing to learn."

What is your understanding of the role a lifeguard performs, and the duties they undertake?

"The role a lifeguard undertakes is to keep people safe, to provide emergency support, and to be a first responder in emergencies until a medic arrives. Additional duties a lifeguard would undertake are to control unruly behavior to minimize harm to others around. Lifeguards are there to supervise swimmers, ensuring everyone is safe and adhering to the basic rules."

The interviewer would like to know that you fully understand what it means to be a lifeguard. When it comes to jobs often depicted in the movies, and on TV, often we can form a cloudy vision on what we think the position is, truly. Show the interviewer that you know your job won't be an episode of Baywatch; but rather, a fundamental role focused on safety.

"As a lifeguard, my role is to spot any hazards and prevent serious accidents. I am also to put into practice the necessary protocols in an emergency, enforce rules consistently and fairly, keep up to date with my lifeguard, CPR, and first-aid training and complete incident reports as needed."

"My understanding of the role a lifeguard performs is to ensure the safety of the guest. Be observant of your surroundings to prevent any hazards and prevent accidents. I make sure that I'm able to save a life by keeping myself fit, understanding the rules and regulations and keeping my lifeguard, CPR, and first aid training up to date."

Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from your resume. You are indeed not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! Focus on unique non-work related skills or hobbies. For instance, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when it's possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)

"I am a certified yoga instructor, and I spent three months after college traveling and doing yoga. I spent six weeks in Asia and another six weeks in Latin America, and it was a fantastic experience that helped me to grow as both a yogi and a professional."

"I am a very outdoorsy person, and I like any water activity. I was offered a job piloting a boat from Hong Kong to the Philippines. It was a great experience that I will never forget."

What do you think are the most important characteristics of a lifeguard?

"In my opinion, a lifeguard needs to be consistent in their decision making, always alert, and continuously concerned about safety. They need to be confident because that split second decision could mean life or death. They need to be an excellent communicator, being clear at all times, so no one misunderstands them. I see in your job posting that these are qualities you look for in a lifeguard. You can rest assured that I possess these and more. My references would be happy to attest to this."

The hiring authority would like to know which characteristics you would value in a lifeguard if you were the one making the final decision. When crafting your response, consider the characteristics asked for in the job posting. Also, be sure to recognize your strengths and include those in your response.

"I believe that the most important characteristic of a lifeguard is constant readiness. In an emergency, you cannot control everything, so it's vital to come ready with the right equipment and fast-response mentality. Other skills that I possess, which are vital to being an excellent lifeguard, include clear communication, strong focus, and a desire to help others."

"The most important characteristics of a lifeguard are being comfortable handling responsibility for guests. Their safety is in your hands. You must be focused and observant at all times and able to respond quickly in a high-pressure situation."

What are the essential items to have at your pool before your shift begins?

"As per my lifeguard training, the equipment that I would be sure to have are a life buoy to throw into the pool should someone get into trouble, a whistle to draw attention to a situation, a walkie-talk to contact colleagues in an emergency, a waterproof watch, and a first aid kit."

The interviewer would like to see how full your understanding is when it comes to preparing for your shift as a lifeguard. The way you respond will also be an indicator, for the hiring authority, on how much training you have received, and how much more you may need, should you be hired. Because this is an open-ended question, be aware of keeping your response straightforward.

"In my current role, I always have with me a first aid kit, a life vest, a floatation device, and an emergency phone. In my lifeguard pack, I carry a whistle, water bottle, and a rope. Is there anything else you would require me to carry, in this role?"

"The essentials items I have to carry before my shift begins are a storm whistle, rescue tube, first aid kit, CPR mask, walkie talkie, and water bottle."

Talk me through your previous experience working with children. How will this experience will help you as a lifeguard?

"I used to work at McDonald's while I was studying at college. This fast food job meant that I was dealing with members of the public all of the time. This particular location offered a kids' play area, attracting many children around age 2-12. I had to observe their behavior to ensure they were playing safely and obeying the rules. I also had to be fair and consistent in my observations, avoiding potentially upset parents. I remember on one shift, one of the kids tried to do a one-handed handstand on a table. I always found that as long as I was firm and respectful, I could ensure their safety without making the parents mad or having them feel that I was disciplining their child."

The interviewer would like further information on your experience working around children. As a lifeguard, you will be responsible for the activities and safety of multiple children at times, more depending on the facility which you are interviewing. Confirm with the hiring authority, your previous experiences with children and how that experience will help you succeed in this role.

"Since I was 12 years old, I would work as a babysitter for extra spending money. One summer, I had a part-time nanny position for a neighbor with three children, aged 4, 7, and 10. It was fun to play with them and think of new activities we could do together. Safety was always a top consideration, and it still is today, as I perform my lifeguard duties."

"I used to take care of my Aunt's five children when I was in high school. I always took full responsibility for their safety. This experience helped me as a lifeguard because it tied in with my obligation to keep guests safe at all times."

What is the number one responsibility for any lifeguard?

"The number one responsibility for a lifeguard is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in my vicinity. I do this through excellent training, focusing on the job at hand, and ignoring any distractions that will come up while on duty."

A lifeguard will have many responsibilities; however, the interviewer is looking for a response that shows you fully understand the one primary thing you must be aware of at all times. Clearly express what you believe to be the top priority in your position as a lifeguard.

"In my lifeguard training, I learned that the safety of every participant is of utmost importance. Safety includes keeping an eye on everyone, no matter their swimming abilities. Also, ensuring that rules are followed and people are respectful at all times."

"The number one responsibility for me is to keep everyone safe when you are on duty. You make sure that you remind them of the rules and regulations."

Are you a good swimmer? Have you completed any swimming training classes?

"I recently completed my 300-meter swimming certificate at my local swimming center. I also completed a lifeguard course during the holidays in which they told me I have a powerful kick and good stamina. I brought my certificate with me if you'd like to take a copy for my candidate file."

It goes without saying - if you want to be a lifeguard, you need to be a strong swimmer. The interviewer wants to confirm that you are a good swimmer. This question is an excellent opportunity to present any certificates you have received from training and workshops. If possible, bring such documents with you to the interview.

"I have completed the Professional Award for Pool Lifeguard at SCQF Level 7 which covered pool rescue, CPR techniques, first aid and dealing with poolside emergencies. As far as my training and certificates go, I believe I check all of the boxes you ask for in the job posting."

"Yes, I am a very competitive swimmer. I received medals when I was in grade school and high school. I completed the swimming training when getting my lifeguard certificate."

As a lifeguard, you will be on the front lines of customer service. Tell me about the last customer service skill you learned.

"The last customer service skill that I learned included a course on dispute resolution management. I feel this course helped me a great deal when it comes to my confidence level, and working with disgruntled people who do not feel the pool rules apply to them. I want to take the advanced level of this course, as a follow-up."

It is essential to a hiring company that you are someone who is willing to learn new skills. Being eager to add to your professional repertoire is an excellent way to stand out from the competition. Some new skills related to customer service can range from linguistic to communication, to software capabilities. If there is a skill that you want to learn, and have not yet taken advantage of, you can mention your interest.

"In my current lifeguard position, I was given the opportunity to take a class in empathetic listening. This skill is one that everyone should have, in a people-facing role. I learned a lot about consistent and professional messaging when dealing with customer disputes, and with children."

"The last customer service skill I learned was my when my guest complained about the tides. I had a business in the Philippines, and we accommodated guests. It was low tide when they arrived. It took a few hours before they arrived at the bungalow. After they left, we both had a chance to review how they were as a guest and how we were as a host. She was upset because of the tides. I tried to explain politely and calmly that we listed in our guide that tides are one of the things they have to consider if they stay with us."

Do you meet our minimum fitness requirements?

"I am sure to work out every morning, which consists of cardio and weight training. I am confident that I will test in the top percentiles when it comes to underwater swimming, stamina, and running speeds."

There may be a range of fitness requirements, depending on if the role is indoor, outdoor, or beach lifeguarding. As a baseline, most lifeguards should be very physically fit with the ability to run 200 meters in under 45 seconds, swim a 400-meter pool in under 8 minutes, and swim underwater for 25 meters or more without tiring. Discuss your fitness routine and physical capabilities while also remembering to offer to take their fitness test, should they have one.

"I took note of your fitness requirements, as outlined in your job description. It is with great confidence that I say I can exceed all of these physical demands. I go for a 5-mile run every morning and perform weight training three days per week. I am an avid swimmer, training as a member of our city's swim club on a weekly basis."

"I was an extremely competitive swimmer when I was in grade school and high school. I continue to swim to stay in good shape. I also work out in the gym five times a week using heavy weights."

What do you hope to gain from working as a lifeguard? What are your future aspirations in this role?

"Physical fitness and swimming have always been a significant part of my life. For that reason, its important to me that I pursue a career as a lifeguard, swim coach, and then potentially a personal trainer in your recreation center. This way, I can cover a few needs for your facility while also doing what I love."

The interviewer would like to see that you are pursuing a long-time career as a lifeguard. Discuss why you want to be a lifeguard and where you would like to see your career end up. Lifeguards are very physically fit so they will often become personal trainers or swim coaches. Alternately, if you are a lifeguard at a leisure center, you may have the opportunity to move into a management position, supervising other lifeguards.

"When I think about my future as a lifeguard, I become excited at the potential opportunities. I want to pursue open-water lifeguard training in the next couple of years. Once trained, I could then work for many of your resorts which offer indoor and outdoor pools as well as ocean-based excursions for guests."

"I am a very outdoorsy person and have always loved swimming, SCUBA diving, kayaking, snorkeling, boating, and SUP. I like anything to do with water sports. When I got my lifeguard certificate, I was happy and thinking of being a lifeguard for my first career in the U.S. I want to learn and get my swimming certifications to be able to teach. That's what I'm looking forward to doing."

Lifeguards must be alert at all times. Talk to me about a time when you have shown the ability to focus.

"I wholeheartedly agree that a lifeguard needs to be alert at all times, as that split second could make all the difference. A lifeguard should never get distracted. I demonstrate alertness and concentration in my current role as a security guard. Last week, there was an incident in which I was monitoring the CCTV. My task was to find the point of time that an individual appeared on the camera, and pause the image. Knowing it would be just a second of the entire footage, I zeroed my attention in, ignoring all background noise and distractions. Sure thing, on the first try, I was able to spot the culprit. It felt great to be a help to my employer, and to know that I could concentrate in such a critical time."

To be a lifeguard is an important job, requiring accurate focus and attention. You must be present in each moment. Show the interviewer that you understand the importance of being alert, on the job. If you have an example of a time you have shown a significant amount of focus, talk to the interviewer about the situation and the outcome.

"I worked as a lifeguard last summer on a popular beach spot in our tourist town. During those few short weeks, I was the first to spot trouble in the water on four different occasions. I take my job seriously, knowing full well that if I were distracted, it could cost someone serious injury or even their life."

"When I was a dive master in the Philippines, we dove three times a day, not including the night dive. No matter how exhausting your job is still you have to be ready and focus. You have to be able to spot hazards and must react quickly in a high-pressure environment, not being distracted with noise in the surrounding areas."

Which level of CPR certification do you possess? Is your certification current and valid?

"I have a CPR -A certification which is valid for the next six months. I have already registered to take a CPR-B course in June. It's important to me that I continue to grow my knowledge in CPR and emergency protocols. If you would like, I have my current certificate with me, and you can take a copy for my file."

Be sure to bring a physical copy of your CPR certification with you, and offer the interviewer to take a scan or photocopy. Before your interview, ensure that your certification is still valid. If your card is expired or expiring in the next 90 days, you should have a plan for re-certification. Keep your response simple and to the point.

"I do have a CPR-B certificate however it is close to expiry. I booked a refresher course next Wednesday and can provide you with a copy of my new certification immediately after completion."

"I have CPR certification, and it will expire in 15 months. I will make sure I will schedule a refresher course before it expires."

As a lifeguard, what is the riskiest decision you have ever made?

"I worked at an outdoor pool one summer where this one child thought it was funny, at least twice per week, to pretend to drown, to get my attention. By the fourth time, I had enough. I knew he was faking, but I went through the entire 'drowning' protocol and rescue. This protocol included calling an ambulance, for which his parents had to foot the bill. The child behaved perfectly after that, and learned a valuable lesson - including that drowning is no joke."

The interviewer wants to know how you handle making risky decisions. As a responsible lifeguard, you know how to make calculated risks. Tell the interviewer about a work-related risk you have taken and what the outcome was. Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make, and explain why it was risky. Describe who the situation affected, as well as the possible outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how the decision paid off, or by mentioning any recognition you received for your choice.

"The riskiest decision I ever made was to ban a child from the pool inside of the private club I worked. The child's' parents were furious, and tried to have me fired from the club; however, I had surveillance video evidence that he was bullying other kids at the pool, pushing their heads under the water, and more. At a members-only club, there is a lot of hierarchy which needs addressing. In this extreme situation, I did not care who the child's parents were. He needed to see consequences for his actions."

"I don't have experience as a lifeguard, but I have experience diving with guests. One of my divers decided to take a different way and separated from us. I tried to tell him but he did not listen. I thought that I should not risk other divers just to follow him. He ran out of oxygen when he was doing a safety stop, and he shot up to the surface. I should have made him stay with me no matter what."

How would you handle a situation where an adult was breaking a rule? Would you be capable of blowing the whistle, or would you just let it go?

"This summer, I had a group of rowdy adults who were not abiding by the no diving rule. The first warning from me was a whistle blow. The second warning, I approached the group, pointed to the no diving sign, and asked them to be respectful. They still did not listen. The third time, I asked a fellow lifeguard and the pool manager to assist me, and we kicked the group out. I take the safety of children and others very seriously, and will not hesitate to enforce policies for the sake of everyone's safety."

A great lifeguard knows that rules should be consistent and fair, no matter who is breaking them. Show the interviewer that you are steady and unafraid to enforce the rules without hesitation. If you have encountered a situation similar to this, discuss what happened, how you reacted, and what the outcome was.

"When it comes to adults breaking the rules, they really should know better, but it does happen from time to time. I used to work at a recreation center that had a climbing wall. Surprisingly, the most unsafe guests were almost always adults. I would report the behavior to my supervisor, and he would ask the person to stop the behavior, citing the rules of conduct. If I thought the person was putting themselves or anyone else in immediate danger, I would escalate my actions and approach them directly."

Give me an example of a time when you have had to enforce rules or policies.

"I currently work as a part-time lifeguard for our community pool, during weekend swimming lessons. One of our rules is no food and drink near the pool area. We would never want broken glass or any cross-contamination. I had a mother who insisted on bringing in her coffee while watching her son swim. I approached her nicely, but she was insulted and became rude. So, I let her know that she was welcome to leave or find another pool to go to if she did not appreciate the importance of our rules. It is not easy, especially as a younger person, to enforce rules with older folks but I remind myself that it's my job to protect the safety of our young swim students. In the end, she chose to ditch her coffee and abide by the rules."

Every lifeguard has to enforce policies from time to time. It isn't always easy to take control of a situation or correct people on their behavior so, for that reason, the interviewer needs to see that you are comfortable taking control under certain circumstances. Provide an example of when you enforced company protocols or rules. Be sure to provide details around why it was a necessary action, and what the outcome was.

"When I worked at Starbucks as a manager, I was responsible for the evening cash out. I grew concerned as money went missing a couple of times in one week. I called a 5-minute briefing with the staff to express the concern and confirm that disciplinary action would take place once the cameras were checked. One of our newer staff members confessed to giving back the incorrect change a few times, but not reporting it. I had to enforce our company policies and terminated her immediately. It was not easy to do, but I did gain the respect of my team by showing them that doing the right thing is not always easy, but it needs to be done."

"I have been working as a dive master, and I always make sure to give divers a proper briefing. One example is that I let them know they have to follow me and never go in a different direction. Sometimes they want to wander off by themselves. Then I have to ask the rest of the divers to stick together and wait for me while I'm fetching the other diver. I have to explain to him that we should be stay together as a group. As a leader, you must enforce the rules and regulations."

What appeals to you most about the role of a lifeguard, and why do you want to work with us?

"The role of a lifeguard appeals to me as I have always liked swimming. I have been a kids' swim coach for a couple of years and believe that between swim seasons, a lifeguard role would be perfect for my talents and interests."

The interviewer wants to understand what drives your desire for a lifeguard role. Be prepared to provide reasoning that will stand out from your competitors. Your reasons for wanting to be a lifeguard should be constructive and positive, avoiding any wishy-washy or weak rationale.

"When I was a child, I was at the pool every weekend. The lifeguards always made me feel safe and, to have the opportunity to now pass that on to other people would be a real pleasure and honor. From the research that I have completed, I understand that you have a brilliant training program, which is a must when performing such a critical role."

"This role appeals to me because I have loved to do any water sports since I was in grade school. I want to work in your company because I believe that I will learn and improve my knowledge with your guidance."

A child is lying on the ground, unresponsive. What is your initial response?

"If I were to come across a child laying on the ground, I would ask them to open their eyes, or perform another straightforward task. If they did not respond, I would check for breathing. If they were breathing, I would perform the steps to open the airway and listen to see if the breathing pattern were normal. Next, I would put them safely in a recovery position until an ambulance arrived. It's important that I continue to check their breathing and be prepared to perform CPR should they stop breathing at any point."

The purpose of this question is to confirm for the interviewer that you understand the CPR process for a child. You will need to recall your lifeguard training and show the hiring authority that you know emergency processes and that you can react appropriately under pressure.

"First, I would open the child's airway. To do this, I would place one hand on the forehead and gently tilt the head back and lift the chin. I would then remove anything obstructing the mouth and nose. I would then pinch the child's nose, put my mouth over the child's mouth and blow steadily five times checking that the chest is rising. I would place my hand onto the center of the chest and push down around 2 inches, do this 30 times and then give a further two breaths. I would continue this cycle until the ambulance arrives."

"My initial response is to check the area if safe to enter, ask the child if he/she is okay, check his/her breathing, ask someone to call 911. If I'm alone, I would dial 911 on speaker phone and start CPR until the ambulance arrives."

Lifeguard Interview Questions

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1. How much do you think this lifeguard job should pay?
2. What is your first reaction when you do something wrong at work?
3. Our facility is open evenings, weekends, and holidays. Can you commit to a flexible work schedule?
4. How do you handle working with little to no supervision?
5. What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?
6. Do you have experience creating accident reports or filling out medical forms? Why is proper documentation important?
7. As a lifeguard, you are required to be observant of your surroundings. Can you tell me of a time when you have spotted a hazard or prevented an accident?
8. As a lifeguard, you will be working around children and other vulnerable groups. Are you willing to provide a background check?
9. Have you ever administered First Aid? Does the sight of cuts, scrapes, and blood bother you?
10. Tell me about the type of team members you dislike working with.
11. Do you have experience with overall pool hygiene, testing and regulating water temperature, PH levels, and chlorine?
12. What is your understanding of the role a lifeguard performs, and the duties they undertake?
13. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
14. What do you think are the most important characteristics of a lifeguard?
15. What are the essential items to have at your pool before your shift begins?
16. Talk me through your previous experience working with children. How will this experience will help you as a lifeguard?
17. What is the number one responsibility for any lifeguard?
18. Are you a good swimmer? Have you completed any swimming training classes?
19. As a lifeguard, you will be on the front lines of customer service. Tell me about the last customer service skill you learned.
20. Do you meet our minimum fitness requirements?
21. What do you hope to gain from working as a lifeguard? What are your future aspirations in this role?
22. Lifeguards must be alert at all times. Talk to me about a time when you have shown the ability to focus.
23. Which level of CPR certification do you possess? Is your certification current and valid?
24. As a lifeguard, what is the riskiest decision you have ever made?
25. How would you handle a situation where an adult was breaking a rule? Would you be capable of blowing the whistle, or would you just let it go?
26. Give me an example of a time when you have had to enforce rules or policies.
27. What appeals to you most about the role of a lifeguard, and why do you want to work with us?
28. A child is lying on the ground, unresponsive. What is your initial response?

Lifeguard Interview Questions

1. How much do you think this lifeguard job should pay?

2. What is your first reaction when you do something wrong at work?

3. Our facility is open evenings, weekends, and holidays. Can you commit to a flexible work schedule?

4. How do you handle working with little to no supervision?

5. What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?

6. Do you have experience creating accident reports or filling out medical forms? Why is proper documentation important?

7. As a lifeguard, you are required to be observant of your surroundings. Can you tell me of a time when you have spotted a hazard or prevented an accident?

8. As a lifeguard, you will be working around children and other vulnerable groups. Are you willing to provide a background check?

9. Have you ever administered First Aid? Does the sight of cuts, scrapes, and blood bother you?

10. Tell me about the type of team members you dislike working with.

11. Do you have experience with overall pool hygiene, testing and regulating water temperature, PH levels, and chlorine?

12. What is your understanding of the role a lifeguard performs, and the duties they undertake?

13. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

14. What do you think are the most important characteristics of a lifeguard?

15. What are the essential items to have at your pool before your shift begins?

16. Talk me through your previous experience working with children. How will this experience will help you as a lifeguard?

17. What is the number one responsibility for any lifeguard?

18. Are you a good swimmer? Have you completed any swimming training classes?

19. As a lifeguard, you will be on the front lines of customer service. Tell me about the last customer service skill you learned.

20. Do you meet our minimum fitness requirements?

21. What do you hope to gain from working as a lifeguard? What are your future aspirations in this role?

22. Lifeguards must be alert at all times. Talk to me about a time when you have shown the ability to focus.

23. Which level of CPR certification do you possess? Is your certification current and valid?

24. As a lifeguard, what is the riskiest decision you have ever made?

25. How would you handle a situation where an adult was breaking a rule? Would you be capable of blowing the whistle, or would you just let it go?

26. Give me an example of a time when you have had to enforce rules or policies.

27. What appeals to you most about the role of a lifeguard, and why do you want to work with us?

28. A child is lying on the ground, unresponsive. What is your initial response?