The Captain and the Crew: Finding the right balance when developing a team

As a captain of a yacht, you need to be able to find the balance between being a leader, mentor, and sometimes a friend. It is important to build good relationships with your crew, not only for your own comfort but also for the safety of those on board. So, how do you build a good, professional rapport with your team and find the balance between being captain and one of the crew? Read on to find out! 

Alternatively take a look at our past blog ‘Everything you ever wanted to ask a superyacht captain.’

Setting Clear Expectations.

It is important to set clear expectations for yourself as a captain. This includes setting expectations about duties on the vessel and what each individual is responsible for. When expectations are established from the start, it will make it easier to maintain a professional relationship of understanding and trust between you and your crew. 

Communicate Openly. 

In general strong communication is key when it comes to maintaining good relationships. Make sure that everyone is aware of any changes in plans or tasks that need to be done on board. Be open to feedback so that everyone feels heard and operate on open door policy. This will create an environment where everyone can work together as one unit and feel comfortable voicing their opinions in order to get the job done in an effective manner. Just like navigating open waters can be treacherous without proper communication, strong leaders in the yachting industry must be able to convey their thoughts and expectations clearly and concisely to their crew.

Be Respectful.

It’s no secret that respect goes both ways when building trust in relationships, be it in friendships or in a professional environment. Respect between colleagues promotes a team ethos and encourages everyone involved to work together in order to achieve common goals and a high level of service for the guests on board the yacht. This means listening attentively when someone speaks up during briefings or meetings, refraining from using disrespectful language towards others (including yourself), or even just saying thanks after someone does something for you, all these simple acts go a long way in fostering positive relationships with your crew members and leaving the guests feeling relaxed and comfortable in your capable hands.. 

Being a strong leader.

In the fast-paced world of yachting, quick and calculated decision-making is crucial. Whether it’s adjusting the itinerary due to unforeseen weather conditions or choosing the best course of action in an emergency situation, strong leaders can process information rapidly, weigh the pros and cons of their options, and make the right call with confidence. Strong leaders are not just decisive; they are also empathetic and compassionate when it comes to the well-being of their crew. They understand that the health and happiness of their team is essential to performing at a high level, and they strive to create an environment where crew members feel valued and appreciated. This may involve offering support during difficult times, recognising achievements and milestones, or simply taking the time to listen and engage in meaningful conversations with their crew, whilst getting to know their strengths and weaknesses…

As we all know, a tight ship is nothing without an incredible crew. Read our previous blog here all about the key qualities of an exceptional crew member

To finish, maintaining a positive and enjoyable relationship with your crew is essential if you want them to trust and respect you as their captain. Setting clear expectations, communicating openly, and being respectful are all key components of finding the balance between being captain and one of the crew members on board your yacht. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to developing the right atmosphere and hiring the correct team members for your next charter!

Are you a hiring manager or head of department looking for the perfect Crew? CLICK HERE to explore the yotspot database and find the perfect fit for your new role!