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“The crew and the office need to be on the same page at all times, to work together in harmony.”
Effective communication plays a paramount role in the maritime world, where even the smallest issue can trigger a chain reaction, escalating minor problems into full-blown crises. The crew relies on the superintendent as their lifeline to shoreside, seeking advice, support, and validation. Addressing the technical concerns promptly is the superintendent's primary responsibility. Discussing his thoughts on the subject is superintendent Raigo Vatsfeldt.
As a technical issue solver, a superintendent may encounter various challenges related to equipment malfunctions, technical glitches, or other unforeseen problems. In such situations, the superintendent is expected to use their technical expertise and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve the issues efficiently. Solving all the technical issues with cooperation and communication, builds trust.
Effective communication in maritime operations extends beyond technical matters. Speaking from experience, Raigo knows that simple conversations can alleviate tensions among team members, enhancing overall harmony on the vessel. The superintendent acts as a mediator, facilitating conflict resolution and restoring a cooperative environment. Unresolved issues tend to accumulate in the maritime setting, posing risks to the crew's well-being and the vessel's efficiency.
A skilled communicator serves as the glue that holds the crew and vessel together. “Let's say you had really bad communication, in that case, you don't hear anything from the crew at all until the vessel stops and something goes wrong. Then we have a huge problem because running a vessel costs money every day,” Raigo explains the importance of proper communication. By building trust between the crew and the office, the superintendent fosters an environment where vital information flows seamlessly. This trust eliminates blame games and promotes a collaborative approach to problem-solving. When breakdowns occur, the superintendent's prompt action enables quick resolutions, preventing further damage and financial losses.
In the absence of effective communication, the vessel becomes isolated, operating in a state of disarray. Cooperation ceases, and trust erodes. Crew members may hesitate to report problems, fearing backlash or disregard from the office. Rumors spread, exacerbating the sense of disunity. The superintendent's role is to bridge this divide, ensuring that authentic information flows freely.
Regular updates, clear instructions, and active listening contribute to seamless operations. Information is disseminated efficiently, enabling crew members to perform their tasks with clarity and confidence. “It is important to remember that working so far from home, on a vessel, is stressful and people sometimes feel alone. I try my best to make everyone on the crew feel okay and get all the issues solved.”
By fostering an environment of trust, prompt problem-solving, and open dialogue, the superintendent ensures the smooth functioning of the vessel and the well-being of its crew.
In conclusion, effective communication is of utmost importance in maritime operations. The superintendent's role as a bridge between the crew and the vessel cannot be overstated. By fostering an environment of trust, prompt problem-solving, and open dialogue, the superintendent ensures the smooth functioning of the vessel and the well-being of its crew.
As always, should you have any questions or learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us!
