Tools of the Trade...The Notebook

Everywhere I go on the campground I always carry a small pocket size spiral notebook and a pen. I've found these notebooks to be one of the most important tools I have as a leader. As I interact with guests and staff, observe programs and use the campground's equipment and facilities I find myself constantly noticing things. Great things I see or hear staff doing. Areas where I see staff members could improve. New and improved program ideas. Facility issues that need attention.

Everything I notice goes into the notebook before I forget it. At least once a day I review my notes and take action. I find a moment to tell a staff member they did a good job. I talk with our leadership team about an issue I saw. I tell our maintenance folks about a facility problem.

During training I let staff know I take notes to help keep track of both the great things happening and areas we need to work on. They come to expect and eventually ignore my note taking (and of other leadership team members who find it helpful.) Over the course of the season I go through several notebooks that become beaten and battered. These invaluable tools record the story of the season, both the good and the bad.