Field Guide Dan Hartman recently joined the Marataba team after completing his training at the lodge. Here he speaks about what his training taught him:
When deciding which field guide college to attend, I chose MORE because of the rapid growth of the company, as well as the overall model that each of the three properties base their values around.
The lodge environment is very fast-paced, which I have loved since day one, but it has also taught me how vital good communication is – not only in the lodge industry but also in everyday life.
During our placement, we had the opportunity to join all of the Marataba guides on their game drives and bush walks. This exposure has allowed me to learn different guiding styles and helped me to formulate my own style based on what I have learnt at the college.
Joining guides, sometimes for up to 5 days, on walking trails at Marataba Mountain Lodge, you definitely get a practical and personal insight into the world of guests!
We have recently all been assigned specific duties within the team. Mine is rifles and consists of maintenance, ammunition etc. This responsibility allows us to learn out to take ownership of our duties and gives us the chance to nurture something in our own way.
The standard here is high and we work hard, but I absolutely love it.
MORE Field Guide College is a fantastic place for any individual who wishes to create a unique signature out of guiding as a profession, and I would recommend it to anyone with a passion for people, nature and wildlife.
