Currently, topics such as mental health, kind leadership, and lateral management are gaining significant attention. However, few have genuinely embraced these concepts. Effective crew management centers on ensuring the crew feels supported by their management.
In recent years, the maritime industry has shown a growing interest in Kind Leadership, a method that can transform leadership practices, enhance safety, and improve individual well-being. A workshop by The Nautical Institute explored several key areas:
- Defining Kind Leadership Kind leadership involves empowering people with positivity, purpose, and open-mindedness, fostering trust and inspiring employees. This approach leads to happier, more motivated teams and better results. It enhances leadership quality, safety culture, team motivation, communication, and individual well-being.
- Characteristics of a Good Leader A good leader focuses on people, accountability, role modeling, and effective communication. They encourage dialogue while maintaining a clear chain of command. At sea, effective leadership is crucial for safety, and involving maritime leaders in decision-making processes is essential. Shore management should demonstrate positive and empathetic leadership during crises. Leaders should also promote harmony and reduce racism among diverse nationalities.
- Emphasizing Kind Leadership There is a consensus that cadets should be prioritized and leadership training should be implemented both onboard and ashore. Companies should be accountable for the cadet experience, utilizing 360-degree feedback for leaders. Leadership abilities and practices should be included in appraisals, with electronic evaluations from employees. There is a cultural shift recognizing the value of emotional intelligence alongside technical knowledge and experience.
- Future Steps Modernizing the cadet curriculum to prepare future maritime leaders Introducing formal mentoring practices through companies Improving teaching and learning during cadet placements, with benchmarks and standards to hold companies accountable Offering maritime leadership and management courses for ongoing professional development of seafarers and shore-based staff
Leadership training should focus on practical exercises and regular experiential training to ensure growth and sustainability.
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