Shipping market activity from a recruiter's perspective

The last few years have been so good to the shipping industry, it is difficult for some to remember a time when rates were lower and jobs were fewer. I remember when the freight rates began their phenomenal increase, most people thought it wouldn't last more than a year, how wrong they were! That is no doubt why the current situation feels even worse, the good times were better than they had ever been before and the crest of the wave we were riding seemed never ending.

That situation has certainly changed in recent months and the shipping industry is feeling the pinch with the global economic crisis continuing to bear down on us. However, all is not doom and gloom. Market reports indicate some small improvements in product tanker markets although VLCCs still appear to be hit quite hard. From a shipping jobs perspective, recent discussions with some key organisations have shown that expansion in certain areas is still on the cards.

As far as shipping jobs are concerned, there is no need for panic. Whilst we have been told that there are recruitment freezes in place, several high profile companies remain keen on recruiting high calibre candidates within the chartering, operations and technical areas if they are available. It appears to be that many are simply becoming more choosy which is not necessarily a bad thing.

It does mean though that employees are going to have to pay attention and work hard to be the best they can. The days of long lunches and business jollies are being reined in by most employers and the focus has, without any shadow of doubt, returned to the bottom line figures.

This of course means a closer focus on salaries and, as vacancies are being more heavily competed for at the moment, the chance of significant raises are more likely through job change than your current employer’s generosity.

If you are considering a move, the first thing to consider is your CV. Keep it brief (3 pages maximum) and to the point. Achievements and responsibilities should be listed against each role with more emphasis on recent positions.

A strong CV is essential if you want to give yourself the best chance of being selected for interview. Statistics show that on average people make a decision on a CV within 15 seconds so it is vital to get it right. Our website, www.halcyonrecruitment.com, provides further detail on how to write a good CV and we are always happy to provide you with feedback if you would like our input.