Having a dedicated team of employees is the lifeblood of any campground. But human resource responsibilities go far beyond the recruitment and hiring processes. Records must be kept accurately, legal requirements must be met and there are other factors that owners need to know such as why something as seemingly harmless as using volunteers can actually put the campground at risk for liability issues.

Having a dedicated team of employees is the lifeblood of any campground. But human resource responsibilities go far beyond the recruitment and hiring processes. Records must be kept accurately, legal requirements must be met and there are other factors that owners need to know such as why something as seemingly harmless as using volunteers can actually put the campground at risk for liability issues.

That’s why the topic of human resources is thoroughly covered in ARVC’s two industry-specific certificate programs: the Outdoor Hospitality Management (OHM) and Outdoor Hospitality Professional (OHP) programs offered at the National School of RV Park and Campground Management.

The human resources components of these two certificate programs focus on best practices for hiring, retention and benefits as well as on how to create an engaging employment culture for all team members.

Human resource practices will also be covered in a third certificate program, the Outdoor Hospitality Generalist (OHG), an online program for park employees that is now being developed.

Like all components of the certificate programs, the human resource portions are specifically designed for the stage that the learners are currently at in their careers, which means each group will examine HR principles from different levels and from different decision-making perspectives:

Employees will examine the role of human resources and gain knowledge of employee requirements for recordkeeping; the basic paperwork required of an employee. They will also learn how goal setting can positively impact employee retention and growth. From a safety perspective, they will review OSHA requirements and how they affect job responsibilities. Finally, they will gain an understanding of the policies, procedures and training required to address the issue of workplace violence.

Managers will also examine the role of human resources and gain knowledge of federal employment laws and the agencies that oversee them as well as the legal regulations regarding the hiring process. They will learn what the EEOC and OSHA requirements are for employee training and recordkeeping. Plus, they will review Title 1 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the resources required to ensure compliance. Managers will also learn how to engage staff in meaningful ways and how to use coaching techniques to improve performance.

In addition to exploring the topics covered in the managers’ portion of the course, owners will discuss ways to maintain effective oversight of all HR management strategies for their park.

Certificate program participants also develop valuable skills in brand management, professionalism and leadership, business management and practices and site and facility management. Ready to learn more? Visit arvc.org/education for information about ARVC’s industry-specific education and what a difference it can make in the successful management of your campground.