I could think of so many work experiences when I’ve had to take charge in a situation over full-time staff, or my bosses, when I only work half-time. Because the aquatic department is in charge of responding to emergencies before the paramedics arrive, me and other pool supervisors are usually the ones telling people what to do. Which is amazing because the full-time staff are also trained in first aid and CPR. I’ve responded to so many calls that I just tell most people to go away (a little more aggressive than what it needs to be).
I know there have been a few times there have been full-time men on staff and people look to them for help. I tell them to leave or grab some ice or a wheelchair. The dumb look on people’s faces is a little win for me. There was one incident where someone had a sprained ankle. I wasn’t the first person to arrive to help but when I brought the first aid kit, I’m already asking questions, getting out the wrap for their ankle, and directing people where to go. Afterward I talked to my boss and he said, “yeah I trust you with any first-aid stuff and move out of the way for you.”
I consider him to be one of my bosses even though we’re not in the same department. I try to get to know most people on staff. We’re normally here at the same time when I have to respond to something. So even though our training is at the same level, I have more experience and have gained his trust. I like to think that most of the full-time staff think the same way about me. When crap hits the fan, they have no problem pushing the power over to me when needed.
Most of my bosses are white men and women. There is no black full-time employee. I’m one of the only black supervisors that work there. I know they’re aware in the difference in power but they have no problem switching it over to me when they have to which I really appreciate. To be honest, I think part of them doesn’t want to handle the issue and that’s fine too since aquatic handles it. But they know when I want them to leave. Too many cooks in the kitchen.
