As a relatively new ship broker here at Quincannon Associates, I wanted to share my tips and advice on navigating a successful career in the ship broking industry. This is a rewarding journey for women too - I am proof of that. Below is some career advice tailored to help new recruits in this dynamic field:
1. Build a Strong Knowledge Foundation
- Invest time in understanding the intricacies of the shipping industry, including market trends, vessel types, and trade routes. Dive into your field of expertise with genuine interest in learning. For example, in the chemical industry there are numerous products, each of them with specific technicality. This knowledge will give you a competitive edge.
- Continuous learning: Engage in continuous learning to stay ahead in your career. Attend workshops, webinars, and industry seminars to expand your knowledge. Stay informed about the latest developments in global and shipping news, as these affect immensely the demand and supply in the shipping industry.
2. Seek Mentorship
- Look for mentors, both male and female, who can provide guidance based on their experience in ship broking or in shipping industry. A mentor can offer valuable insights, advice, and support as you navigate your career. Do not hesitate to ask for help when you start your career journey.
3. Networking is Key
- Establish and nurture professional relationships within the industry. Attend industry events, join relevant associations, connect with experienced professionals. Make sure you also build a strong LinkedIn profile dedicating time being “active” on a regular basis so that you stand out. Networking can open doors to valuable opportunities.
4. Embrace Technology & Enhance your analytical skills
- Stay updated on technological advancements in the industry. Familiarize yourself with digital platforms, software, and tools used in ship broking to enhance your efficiency and effectiveness. Strengthen your analytical skills to be able to solve complex problems, collect and process industry-related data such as position lists, fixtures and cargo enquiries & create informative reports for your clients.
5. Promote Diversity and Inclusion
- Advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Encourage a supportive and inclusive environment that values the contributions of individuals regardless of gender. This can foster a more collaborative and innovative work culture.
6. Negotiation Skills
- Ship broking often involves negotiations. Sharpen your negotiation skills to secure favorable deals for your clients. Understanding cultural nuances in negotiations can be particularly valuable.
7. Balancing Work and Life
- The shipping industry can involve demanding schedules. Establish a healthy work-life balance to sustain long-term career growth. Prioritize self-care and personal time to maintain well-being.
8. Be a Team Player
- Teamwork leads to faster learning, creates a support system which is vital for everyone to grow while attributing themselves to a common goal & increases work satisfaction. Share your knowledge & ideas across teams, discuss openly about the market trends, lend a hand when needed, actively participate in projects, respect your colleagues’ clientele.
9. Confidence and Assertiveness
- Be confident in your abilities and assertive in expressing your ideas. Confidence can make a significant impact in negotiations and decision-making processes.
10. Authenticity
- While it is always beneficial to have role models to draw inspiration from, it is equally essential to remain authentic to yourself & build your career around your personal strengths. SWOT Analysis for Personal Development is a strategic tool that can help you understand your unique attributes and the external factors to accelerate your growth.
- Build a personal Brand: Establish your personal brand within the industry. Showcase your expertise through thought leadership, articles, and presentations. This can enhance your professional visibility and credibility.
- Add Value to your clients: Shipbroking is all about cultivating trust in your clients by providing added-value services in all stages of the fixing cycle. Identify the best opportunities, always respect “P&C” information, look after each fixture with attention to details, provide high-quality & customized solutions.
By Theano Karathanasi
Ship Broker
Quincannon Associates DMCC