Friends can't figure out how to use the detector

[Canine]

Some of my friends and family have tried out my detector after watching me use it. Even with basic, brief instruction most are not able to operate it effectively. They swing it like a golf club. Mostly they hold it out in front of them without swinging it.

Why do you suppose they use it like that? Does it take too much coordination for a novice? Do they think their method is more effective? Would like to understand their point of view better so they can get more out of the sport; at least the ones who are sincerely interested.

 

[GunnarMN]

they fear it , tell them it will not hert them . I had to lell people that to

 

[Canine]

That would be a fun way to approach it, too. Will give that a go.

 

[Larry (IL)]

Ask them why they do the things they do, they should tell you. Once you know, you can work on their technique.

 

[Canine]

They don't seem to know why they choose to operate the detector like they do. When I ask them, they talk about other stuff and don't get around to answering my question which creates an awkwardness. I don't want to say this, but I suspect my approach is hindering their responses. I'm thinking more patience is needed, but the frustration from finding little if anything will probably discourage them from continuing.

 

[Elton]

But here goes.... Are you sure they really have an interest... or are you "Trying" to get them interested ??

Again not being nasty in the least.. My key was when you said Quote........... When I ask them, they talk about other stuff and don't get around to answering my question which creates an awkwardness................ Shoot my family and friends hate detecting.........They find it boring !!

 

[Canine]

I always wait until they approach me; however, my enthusiasm may be off-putting. When I give a brief lesson, perhaps I am being too forceful- "trying" too hard.

I wish I could see my actions more clearly; probably could look at Johari's Window again! Or maybe I've run into people who would rather watch the game than participate. That takes work! Or maybe I need a catchphrase like "Boom, baby!" to get them excited. Lol

 

[slingshot]

Sounds like you're a good friend and they don't know how to tell you they're not all that crazy about the hobby.

 

[jim tn]

I've had similar situations as yours over the years and after showing them the proper swing method, let them go at it. I then go my merry way and stay close enough to them so they can see my method. If and when they revert back to a sloppy swing, I let them go. After a while I'll show them what I have found. Those that are truly interested in learning want to find things and usually began swinging trying to follow my example. My daughter in law recently did and recovered a nice 14k wedding band. She is now hooked. HH jim tn

 

[Canine]

Role modeling with a bit of humor is probably the best way to go. I do find it odd that a surprisingly high number of people have the difficulties they do. Maybe this is me being a braggart, but I don't remember having that level of difficulty. Well, we each have our skill levels; if I were to be compared to some of you guys, I'd look like a simpleton! And there's nothing wrong with that either.

 

[Steve O]

Know what you mean. I tried to show someone the basics and he did ok, but didn't really understand as I could see the look of confusion. We set off in the woods, him using my f-75 and I had my cz. Every once in a while I'd glance at him or ask if he was doing ok. The one time I looked at him, he dropped the detector from waist high to dig a target. I rushed over to him and nicely as I could, said WHAT THE HE!! ARE YOU DOING!!!,,,No that didn't come out of my mouth, just what I thought. Anyway, I said it's not good to drop my machine like that, still the confused look. Glad I didn't let him use the cz.