To maintain motivation, work processes must become more efficient and accessible. A recent step in this is the launch of the industry's RI and E, which digitises safety procedures. No more endless forms, but a system that really works. Easier, faster and more shareable throughout the company. Through innovation, safety is no longer seen as an administrative burden, but as an essential part of a healthy work culture.  

Whether you work at sea or in an office, motivation comes from a combination of an inspiring work environment, a strong team and clear goals. But above all: the realisation that your work matters. Work is more than a job; it is a responsibility. And as long as you feel that, the drive remains.

In shipping, people from different cultures work together. This requires an active approach from employers. A Dutchman will be quicker to speak up, while someone from the Philippines or Indonesia might be more reserved. It is the employer's job to actively involve all people in the work and the company.  

Motivation comes not only from the work itself, but also from feeling part of a bigger picture. People feel more motivated when they feel heard. That is why it is so important to keep an active dialogue with all employees. 

In addition, an employer's responsibility extends beyond the employee himself. Many shipowners visit the countries their seafarers come from, organise training, but also involve their families. If you provide connection, you increase loyalty.  

A motivated team starts with a strong employer. If you want people to be committed, you have to treat them as good colleagues. That is the most important thing. A safe and pleasant working environment increases commitment. In addition, safety is not only a matter of protocols, but also of culture. A culture where people feel safe to address each other and share their concerns is one where fewer mistakes are made.  

An employer must also set limits. If the customer puts pressure on you, as a shipping company you have to be strong enough to say: no, with us the safety and welfare of our crew always comes first. 

Seafarers work under special conditions. It is dangerous work that goes on day and night. You have to deal with international crews who speak different languages and there are challenging conditions on board. Safety cannot slacken for a moment. The moment you lose drive, you also lose focus. And in this sector, staying sharp is often vital.

Avoid routine and set goals    
One of the biggest pitfalls in any profession is routine. It is precisely in the most repetitive operations that the greatest risks arise. The procedures are often correct, but practice is more obstinate. Office pressure, customer demands and the situation on board can make people skip a step anyway. 

To keep your work engaging, you need to set goals for yourself. Without goals, you lose the challenge. What do I want to achieve today? What do I want to have achieved in a year's time? You need to have that in focus. If you no longer know what you are working towards, you have to ask yourself if you are still in the right job.

My name is Annet Koster and I am director of the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners. My work is multifaceted and challenging. The maritime sector has a long tradition and is an industry that runs 24/7, combining safety, innovation and sustainability.  

Everything we use comes by sea. Yet we hardly think about it. That lack of awareness motivates me to make the sector visible. It is essential that politicians and decision-makers realise how crucial a strong Dutch shipping industry is. 

How do you maintain that motivation?    
Motivation does not come naturally; it is something you have to actively nurture. For me, much of that drive lies in working with my team. Inspiration comes not only from the work you do, but especially from the people around you.  

Join Work Safely at Sea and help us spread the important message about safety further. We are looking for companies, ships, and workers to share their experiences. Your story can inspire others and make them aware of the crucial role safety plays in our work. Whether you have a success story or a lesson learned from a near miss, your contribution can make a difference. Fill in the form and join our mission to make the sea a safer place to work for everyone.