Non-traditional Interpretation by Non-traditional Providers in Non-traditional settings (i.e. airports, city sidewalks, etc.)

By Lori-Ann Palisi, Leapfrog Enterprises, LLC

Interpretation as a profession has its roots in the National Park Service and pretty much remained there for decades. Slowly but surely it has, and is, working itself into the likes of zoos and aquariums. These are genres where you would expect to find the tenants of quality interpretation applied. They are not, however, the only areas that could benefit from the interpretive method. The concepts and tenets of quality interpretation can lead to successful, and hence more productive, employees.

Let’s take a look at Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. We all know that taking care of our guests’ basic needs helps to make our message more easily understood and attainable. But, what about our employees? How many of us think about the basic needs of our employees? Sure, we may not be able to do much about the pay rate that comes down from on high, but we can sure do something about the other basic needs.

Any facility that has volunteers knows the importance of keeping them happy. But what about your employees, you know, the ones that are out there doing their jobs every day for little pay?

Think about the employees who spend the bulk of their days outside in the sun, wind and weather. When the last time you walked around your facility to ensure they are drinking water, wearing sunscreen or a hat, or provided a rain suit for them during inclement weather? When the last time you’ve provided lunch, or even just water?

How about the last time you said a simple thank you to your employees for their contribution to your facility and its goals? Have you let them know that you appreciate them and the work they do? You’d be surprised how far a simple thank you will go. Even better, why not mail a card to their home. Let them know that you appreciate them – you don’t have to limit this to when you see them on the job!