Thoughts on future crew manning challenges

It is a fact that in year 2018, seafarers’ non-technical skills are overlooked by recruitment departments, although digitalization and automation on board ships is creating demand of seafarers with skills that go beyond what machines are capable of and therefore are a crucial part of fostering a dynamic workforce. What differentiates the low performing from the high performing crews, though? Here are five examples to help us understand the importance of growing a soft skill set in maritime industry.

Lack of Competence VS well competent seafarers

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Lack of training means lack of safety culture, which creates severe obstacles and puts both ships and employees in danger. Requiting well competent seafarers means having the right people in the right role on board your vessels

Well trained seafarers effectively implement safety culture following four simple steps;

1. Appreciate the concept of safety culture
2. Communicate it
3. Be aware of the importance of reporting injuries, first aids and near misses
4. Set targets for continuous improvement, with a goal of zero accidents and ISM Code non-conformities

Poor communication skills VS efficient communication

Communication between different departments and the interaction with the groups is vital especially when onboard. Lack of robust communication routine can cause serious, undesirable situations. Specifically, the effects of poor communication can be:

1. Misunderstanding
2. No information or
3. Incorrect information

Lack of necessary mindset VS right attitude

Officers and crew need to be educated and trained to not only operate ships but to be proficient in many more disciplines that will result in them being what the industry demands of them,

…Capt. John Dickie, Managing Director, Joint Development Associates, has stated in a SAFETY4SEA Sea Sense Column.

Non-technical skills, the so-called “soft skills”, such as the ability to manage yourself and others, work under pressure, demonstrate resilience in response to adversity are becoming more and more important in shipping industry. The top skillset towards success in 2020 is said to be:

1. Complex Problem Solving
2. Critical Thinking
3. Creativity
4. People Management
5. Coordinating with others
6. Emotional Intelligence
7. Judgement and decision making
8. Service Orientation
9. Negotiation
10. Cognitive Flexibility

Lack of proper leadership VS self-aware leadership

If you are asking someone to carry out a task and you are not doing it yourself or not being part of the actual activity, then it is not easy to convince others to follow. So, walk the talk, be there, and lead by example,

…Julia Anastasiou says.

Certainly, as the leadership model is evolving, shipping industry needs capable people in leadership positions. While, unfairly, today gender seem to be a distinguishing factor in the leadership world, self-awareness should be the differentiator between a good and a bad leader. Both men and women receive equal opportunities to occupy managerial positions and are treated always according to their skills, qualifications and performance.

Lack of Equality VS Bridging the diversity gap

Industry needs equality referring not only to bridging the gender gap but also the nationality and cultural gap in order to add more value in the sector. Surveys prove that diverse cultural perspectives can inspire creativity and drive innovation, help employees being more competitive and profitable which means higher quality in the workplace but also greater opportunity for both personal and professional growth.