The start of a new year often brings a renewed mindset and fresh aspirations. Many people set resolutions, only to feel the pressure of maintaining big commitments. When goals become overwhelming, they can slip away. A more sustainable approach is to focus on smaller, achievable steps that contribute to a more rewarding year.
In your career, choosing one skill to develop can support your long-term growth and strengthen your professional journey.
Key Takeaways
Focus on one skill at a time – Small, achievable steps in areas like digital capability, decision-making, or communication build long-term career growth.
Invest in yourself – Developing your skills boosts confidence, mindset, and opens doors to new opportunities in 2026.
Stand out to employers – Ongoing self-development makes you more competitive in the maritime industry and demonstrates value to hiring managers.
Why focus on self-development in 2026?
In a global talent pool where many professionals share similar qualifications and experience, distinguishing yourself can feel challenging. Ongoing skill development is one of the most effective ways to stand out to employers. It also supports a sense of progress, creating a more positive mindset and helping you stay engaged in your career.
Here are some skills to consider developing in 2026:
AI and digital capability
This means being able to understand and work confidently with modern digital tools and technologies. It includes using systems that collect and analyse data, automated processes that make tasks more efficient, and AI-powered platforms that support day-to-day decision making. In the maritime industry, this can involve tools used for vessel operations, voyage planning, logistics, crewing management, safety monitoring, and commercial activities.
Why it matters
Digital transformation is reshaping maritime. From predictive maintenance and voyage optimisation to smarter crew management software, many organisations are investing in digital solutions. Candidates with strong digital capability can adapt more easily, work more efficiently, and bring added value to employers who want to modernise their operations.
How to develop it
Explore short online courses focused on AI fundamentals or data literacy.
Take part in internal training programmes offered by your employer.
Familiarise yourself with the digital tools used in your role and look for ways to use them more effectively.
Follow industry updates on digital trends to stay informed.
Decision-making
Decision-making is the ability to assess information quickly, consider risks, and make choices that are timely, practical, and well-reasoned. It includes both independent decisions and decisions made in team environments.
Why it matters
Maritime roles often require quick, informed judgement, whether onboard, in operations, or in commercial functions. Strong decision makers help avoid delays, prevent risks, and move processes forward with confidence. Employers value people who can take responsible ownership.
How to develop it
Practise structured approaches such as weighing options, identifying risks, and reviewing outcomes.
Seek opportunities to take the lead in smaller decisions to build confidence.
Reflect on past choices to understand what worked and what could improve.
Ask colleagues or mentors to share how they approach complex decisions.
Critical thinking
Critical thinking is the ability to analyse information objectively, identify patterns or gaps, question assumptions, and reach well-supported conclusions.
Why it matters
Shipping and maritime environments are complex and fast-moving. Whether dealing with regulations, technical issues, logistics constraints, or commercial challenges, candidates who think critically can solve problems more effectively and help streamline operations.
How to develop it
Break problems down into smaller parts instead of reacting quickly.
Ask clarifying questions when presented with new information.
Review multiple viewpoints before finalising a conclusion.
Practise analysing case studies or real-life scenarios in your day-to-day work.
Cross-functional collaboration
This is the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different teams, disciplines, and time zones. It involves communication, shared problem-solving, and understanding how various parts of a business connect.
Why it matters
Maritime relies on seamless coordination between crewing, technical, commercial, safety, HR, operations, and vessel staff. Candidates who collaborate well help projects run more smoothly, reduce miscommunication, and contribute to stronger outcomes.
How to develop it
Learn how other departments operate and what they prioritise.
Proactively keep stakeholders informed during shared tasks.
Attend cross-team meetings or working groups when possible.
Practise active listening and encourage open conversation.
Communication
Communication includes how you share information, listen, present ideas, write messages, and adapt your style to the audience. It also includes clarity, professionalism, and confidence.
Why it matters
In maritime, clear communication supports safety, efficiency, and strong working relationships. From reporting and documentation to team updates and client interaction, employers look for professionals who can communicate thoughtfully and effectively.
How to develop it
Improve written communication by reviewing clarity, structure, and tone.
Practise presenting or summarising information in concise formats.
Seek feedback from colleagues on how your communication is received.
Observe effective communicators in your workplace and learn from their approach.
Take action in 2026
Choosing one skill to focus on doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Start small, set achievable steps, and celebrate progress along the way. Whether it’s learning a new digital tool, improving decision-making, or strengthening communication, every step brings you closer to standing out in a competitive industry.
To make the most of your growth, take action today: update your CV, register as a Job Seeker with Faststream and set up job alerts for roles that match your ambitions.
Investing in your development isn’t just about skills. It’s about creating opportunities.
