Mike hit the nail on the head pretty much. Some folks are natural instructors. The key thing is to be able to really listen to the student about his or her concerns. Learning something new and complex can be stressful for some people. Some folks are very self concious and concerned about what other people think about them, where others don't really care.

Your ability to read people is very important. Like Mike said, you may not be able to connect with everyone. Don't be afraid to admit your own short comings, most people will respect that.

I really enjoy helping most people, most of the time. I limit my amount of training, so it doesn't interfere with my enjoyment of the hobby. You can quickly get burned out, if you take on too many folks. Also, learn how to wean them, if you know what I mean. You can easily have old students taking up way too much of your time, which could become frustrating for you and any new students you may be working with.

I usually try to find a new student a mentor and make sure I introduce them to the more knowledgeable pilots and builders at the field, so they know there is allot of help out there, other than the old instructor.

Most of us in RC are really willing to jump in and help a new person, if that new person is really not to shy to ask for help.

The biggest things that you as an instructor must do, is to insure your students are well versed in safety issues. I make sure mine all read the AMA safety codes and go over any questions or concerns they may have before even attempting to start anything. Safety will only become routine and a good habit, if we instill it properly in our training protocals.

Good luck withe your training, it can and will be very rewarding, I am sure.

MikeBoyd
AMA 7197