The maritime industry is at a crossroads, recognizing that the traditional emphasis on technical skills is no longer sufficient to ensure the safety and well-being of seafarers. As the tides of change wash over the sector, industry leaders are waking up to the undeniable truth: soft skills are not just a nice-to-have; they are essential for fostering a safe, effective, and harmonious working environment aboard vessels. This shift in perspective comes at a time when crew mental health and the human element of maritime operations are gaining unprecedented attention.
Seafarers, equipped with the technical know-how to navigate the complexities of their roles, are now being urged to polish their interpersonal skills. Communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence are emerging as vital components that enhance teamwork and minimize errors. Steven Gosling MSc AFNI, Head of Information and Publications at The Nautical Institute, succinctly puts it: “While The Nautical Institute offers a range of courses which have been developed to ensure seafarers are technically competent, we are of the opinion that soft skills have an equally vital role to play in the smooth running of vessels.” This acknowledgment marks a significant turning point in maritime training and development.
The numbers don’t lie. According to a Gallup survey, soft skills training can boost productivity by 12% and improve workplace morale by 27%. With safety and talent attraction ranking high on the industry’s list of concerns, the maritime sector cannot afford to overlook the potential of soft skills. Investing in this area not only promises to enhance operational safety but also addresses the pressing issues of crew attraction and retention. In a world where the demand for skilled seafarers continues to rise, fostering a culture that values soft skills could be the key to keeping talent on board.
Carole Davis, Professor Emeritus at Warsash Maritime School, emphasizes the transformative power of soft skills, stating, “Soft skills should be seen as the golden thread running through professional life.” In her view, the human element is paramount, especially in complex operational systems. She advocates for creating teachable moments within reflective environments, highlighting the importance of social context in driving human performance. This perspective is not just theoretical; it’s a call to action for maritime training programs to adapt and evolve.
In response to the growing need for effective soft skills training, The Nautical Institute is set to publish Professor Davis’ book, ‘Developing Soft Skills in Mariners.’ This handbook aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing course designers and facilitators with the tools to create impactful learning experiences. It covers everything from defining soft skills to experiential learning methods, making it a valuable resource for maritime organizations eager to see tangible outcomes from their training investments.
As the industry navigates these transformative waters, it’s clear that embracing soft skills is not merely an option; it’s a necessity. The maritime sector stands to gain not just in terms of operational safety and efficiency, but also in fostering a healthier workplace culture. The future of maritime operations hinges on this newfound appreciation for the human element, and those who adapt will undoubtedly sail ahead.
