Handling Last Minute Complications

As we screen participants, we do everything we can to ensure they are dedicated to the program and committed to arriving and remaining at camp for the duration of the summer. However, last minute complications can always arise – whether that is through visa denials or global situations. You know this as a camp director – but always be prepared for last minute changes! Here are some tips for preparing to handle any last minute complications that may arise.

Diversify, Diversify, Diversify.

Seek out diversity in every element of your staff. For international staff, hire from different countries and different regions of the world. That way, if one country presents a problem in terms of visas, you won’t lose half of your counselors. Hiring a diverse group not only helps you avoid visa issues but also allows your staff to improve their English as they communicate with one another.

Seek Out Staff With a Range of Skills.

Finding a horseback-riding specialist is great, but finding a horseback-riding specialist who can help out in arts and crafts is even better! Keep in mind that you may need to do some shifting of responsibilities at first, before staff become comfortable with their roles. Prepare your staff for this possibility as well!

Hire Early and Often.

Unanticipated embassy issues can delay the visa process for weeks or even months at a time. Do not wait until a month before your camp opens to start looking at the holes in your staffing. Also, if at all possible, plan for more staff than you need. We recommend that you be over prepared, as appropriate candidates may not be available if you find you’re understaffed after your season has started.