Experience on board in relation to Leadership by Superiors.

Hi, and welcome to my last post in this blog. Since it is my last post here, it is only fitting that I talk about my experience on board in relation to the leadership of my superiors. I had the golden opportunity to sail on board a RoRo vessel named Pyxis Leader for a period of about 10 months. I had the chance to experience 2 different Chief Officers during my time on board.

Image: Google Images

The first Chief Officer, in my opinion, has a strong and confident personality. He is the kind who is very willing to teach new things to us cadets (there are 2 cadets at all times on board this vessel). At the same time, he is also strict and not hesitant to scold us in case of any mistakes. He is the kind who is willing to protect his crew when interrogated by Master if and when he feels that the crew had done nothing wrong. I am also thankful to him as he entrusted me behind the wheel to steer the ship during port entry.

Me in action during drill

The 2^nd Chief Officer that I sailed with had a little soft side to him. He always succumbs to pressure that is exerted by the Master. He would “let it out”, so to speak, on crew members whenever things are not going on smoothly. He however is the kind who is willing to listen to opinions and ideas. He is also the type to teach us passionately especially to us cadets (there are 2 cadets at all times on board) especially in subjects related to navigation.

 Me and fellow cadet

Overall, having served on board with 2 different chief mates thought me a lot about prioritization, communication skills and willingness to listen to alternative ideas in difficult situations. A common parameter between them is that they are expert in situational behaviour. They know how to turn up the pressure during critical operations and at the same time laugh around during our precious and limited leisure time on board.

Me together with mess man and fellow cadet

 In a nutshell, I would say that after training under 2 different superiors, there is a lot of leadership traits that I can pick up and put in good use in the future. I hope to at least perform at their level if not better.

Thank you.