Harnessing data from the 2023 global Wellness at Sea Maritime Schools Conferences, Sailors’ Society’s report provides fresh insight into what motivates and worries these Gen Z seafarers and what the industry needs to do to retain and support them.
With sections on diversity and retention as well as mental health, the data reveals that alongside shared values around family, ethical treatment, social justice and inclusivity, there are also clear regional identities that are strongly linked to social and cultural differences.
Each generation of cadets has its own characteristics and that’s certainly true of our Gen Z seafarers. By examining these in detail through the report we can reveal what makes tomorrow’s workforce and future maritime leaders tick – what motivates them, what worries them and what the industry needs to do to retain and support them.
… said Sara Baade, CEO, Sailors’ Society
Previous contact with sea
It is noteworthy that the vast majority of those in training for a maritime career, 76% of those polled, had yet to experience life at sea. This figure serves to highlight the importance of providing cadets with the tools they need to look after their own physical and mental health. With the overwhelming majority of these young people stepping on board a ship for the first time on graduation, it is vital we prepare them for this.
Motivation
The choice of a maritime career is influenced by regional and cultural variations, as evident in diverse motivations across the globe. In Africa, economic concerns and a strong focus on family needs dominate, with 39% seeking substantial earnings and an equal percentage prioritizing family care. Females in Africa particularly emphasize family responsibilities, with 50% expressing a desire to support their families.
In North and South East Asia, family responsibility and financial well-being are key motivators, with 41% in North Asia and 44% in South East Asia emphasizing these factors. The significance of familial obligations highlights the cultural context’s impact on career choices in these regions.
Conversely, UK cadets exhibit distinct motivations, with only 3% citing financial gain. Opportunities for travel and fulfilling familial responsibilities are the primary drivers for UK cadets, indicating that monetary incentives may not be as effective in recruiting new seafarers in the UK compared to other regions.
Generally, the data emphasizes the predominant influence of family responsibility as the primary motivator for individuals pursuing a career in seafaring, with 42% of cadets expressing this as their driving force. Recognizing this fundamental motivation is crucial for shaping effective recruitment processes and creating environments that allow seafarers to fulfill their family obligations comprehensively.
The key challenge in recruitment lies in establishing an environment that not only addresses professional needs but also supports the broader spectrum of personal and familial requirements.
This insight prompts a shift in the recruitment focus towards creating an environment that accommodates seafarers’ holistic needs, both professionally and personally. By understanding and valuing this fundamental motivation, the maritime industry can design policies, practices, and support systems that align with the core values and priorities of seafarers worldwide.
This data highlights the need to take a nuanced approach when it comes to learning about the different challenges and perceptions of those looking to start a seafaring career
… commented Heidi Heseltine, Founder, Diversity Study Group
This approach has the potential to enhance job satisfaction, increase retention rates, and contribute to the overall well-being of seafarers, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and supportive seafaring community.
Key findings
In recent virtual events, aspiring seafarers from Generation Z demonstrated contagious optimism and a proactive spirit towards their chosen careers, recognizing the industry’s challenges but seeing themselves as agents for positive change. Their enthusiasm highlights the transformative potential of this generation, offering a refreshing perspective compared to a potentially jaded older generation.
Through these cadet-focused conferences and the reports that result from them, we provide a unique window into the Gen Z seafaring world
… explained Johan Smith, Head of Wellness, Sailors’ Society.
The collected data indicates a shift in priorities for Gen Z seafarers, emphasizing the importance of well-being, strong relationships, and ethical treatment in their career aspirations.
Most to least important while being at sea:
This calls for a decisive shift within the maritime industry, urging shipping companies to prioritize these aspects alongside traditional objectives to attract and retain top talent.
While the optimism within this generation is evident, the need for substantial industry change is emphasized. Outdated notions must be discarded, and a recalibration of priorities is essential. The focus on well-being, relationships, and ethical treatment is seen as crucial anchors for a promising future in maritime.
