The Value of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

In the maritime industry, the term “retention rate” can send shivers down the spine. According to Lloyd’s List/Danica Maritime’s 2024 survey, 64% of the companies reported either a worsening or only slight improvement of retention rates.

With a growing shortage of competent seafarers and the ongoing recruitment challenges, Crew Managers face the tough task of not just filling positions – but keeping crew members engaged, satisfied, and loyal. It’s a complex role that requires striking balance between professionalism and genuine human connection.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence (EI)

In an era where strategy, data, and KPIs dominate the conversation, emotional intelligence is quietly revolutionizing leadership. It’s about leading with empathy, self-awareness, and authenticity – traits that build resilience, improve communication, and create sustainable teams.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Leadership

Leaders who cultivate EI are better equipped to:

• Navigate challenges with calm and clarity
• Build stronger, more connected teams
• Handle conflict with empathy
• Foster trust, motivation and loyalty

Throwback 2019: A Leadership journey

In spring 2019, I was thrilled to transition into the role of Crew Manager. I had my own vessel, 130 crew members from across the world, and a steep learning curve ahead.

One of our biggest challenges was restoring trust and strengthening collaboration between the vessel and shore management – an issue not uncommon in our industry.

From day one, I wanted every crew member to feel:

• Supported
• A sense of belonging
• Loved

Before my first crew change visit, many offered well-intentioned advice: “Don’t get too emotionally attached”.

As you might guess – I didn’t follow the advice.

Professional or Personal – Are They Mutually Exclusive?

Absolutely not.

To me, being professional means delivering results with competence, integrity, and efficiency.

Being personal means building meaningful connections – treating everyone with empathy, respect, and genuine, regardless of rank or nationality. That applies not only to the crew, but also agents, agencies, and others collaborators.

The Benefits of Leading with Emotional Intelligence

Leading with emotional intelligence brings tangible outcomes:

• Clearer, more open communication
• Stronger team relationships
• Higher engagement and retention
• More effective conflict resolution

What Happens When You Lead Personally?

When leaders show genuine interest in their team as people – not just employees – amazing things happen:

• Trust deepens
• Morale and engagement rise
• Teams become more resilient in difficult times
• Influence becomes authentic and lasting

In today’s workplace, where people crave meaning and connection, personal leadership isn’t just effective – it’s essential.

My Three Pillars of Leadership

At the heart of  my leadership style are three guiding principles:

1. Physical and Emotional Proximity

Being away from home is tough. As a leader, I strive to be present – not just physically, but emotionally. Showing up with empathy builds trust and fosters a sense of togetherness

2. Open and Honest Communication

I believe transparency is the lifeblood of a thriving team. I value courageous conversations and honest feedback. I ask for help. I welcome critique. Growth requires honesty.

3. Love in the Workplace

Love is not a feeling – it’s a radical act of leadership. I lead with kindness, compassion, and respect to create a culture where people feel safe, empowered, and seen.

According to Harvard Business Review, people who felt love at work were:

• 15 times more engaged
• 42 times more resilient

The Way Forward

Today, technical skills are no longer enough. Retention and team performance hinge on emotional intelligence and people-centered leadership.

A 2025 survey of 200 Norwegian leaders revealed a striking insight:

The most crucial leadership skill for the future isn’t technology – it’s authenticity. Leaders who dare to be human, grounded, and available to others will drive success.

Yes, leading with love and emotional investment can be demanding. But is it soft or naïve?

Not according to Harvard.

The 98% retention rate on our vessel stands as a testament to the power of emotional intelligence and personal leadership. In a high-turnover industry, that’s more than impressive – it’s transformational.

Lloyd’s List: Crew-retention-better-in-2024

Harvard Business Review: Employees Who Feel Love Perform Better