Job hunting involves more than just sending out a CV and waiting for a reply.
It matters how you present your experience, whether your documents and LinkedIn profile are up to date, how you approach employers, and which search channels you use.
Here are 7 key dos and don’ts for seafarers to consider when looking for their next contract.
- Sending the exact same CV to every single company
❌ NO
Different vacancies may have varying requirements regarding experience, vessel type, rank, and qualifications.
Your CV should highlight the specific experience that matters for the position in question.
- Including specific details in your CV instead of generic phrases
✅ YES
Anyone can write “responsible, stress-resistant, and communicative.”
It is far more useful to show:
— vessel types;
— GT / DWT;
— ranks held;
— equipment;
— companies;
— certificates and professional skills.
The employer needs to quickly understand what kind of professional you are.
- Maintaining an up-to-date LinkedIn profile
✅ YES
Crew managers don’t just look for specialists among those who have submitted a CV.
A properly completed profile makes it easier for them to find you based on rank, fleet type, experience, and professional skills.
Your profile can work for you even when you aren’t actively looking for a job.
- Filling out LinkedIn with only your job title and a one-line bio
❌ NO
If your profile lacks information about your experience, vessel types, ranks, and professional skills, it is hard for an employer to determine if you are a good fit.
LinkedIn isn’t just another line on your resume; it is a distinct touchpoint with the employer.
- Simply copying information from your CV into an email to the employer
❌ NO
An introduction letter or cover letter is not a second CV. There is no need to list all your contracts, vessels, and certificates all over again.
The letter should briefly outline who you are, the position you are applying for, your most relevant experience, and why your candidacy deserves attention.
- Using multiple job search channels simultaneously
✅ YES
CV + direct inquiries to companies + LinkedIn + professional contacts + mass mailings.
Don’t rely on just one channel.
The more quality touchpoints you have with a potential employer, the greater your chances of getting noticed by the right company.
- Starting the search for your next contract only after the current one has ended
❌ NO
If you know the approximate end date of your contract, you can start looking for the next opportunity in advance.
This gives you time to update your documents, polish your CV and LinkedIn profile, and calmly consider offers.
⚓️ The Bottom Line
A seafarer’s job search is not just about:
“Sending a CV → waiting for a call.”
Your documents, CV, LinkedIn profile, emails, and communication with companies all work together.
The better prepared each element is, the easier it is for an employer to understand who you are and which position suits you best.
We can help you prepare for your job search:
⚓️ drafting and formatting your CV;
⚓️ writing introduction and cover letters;
⚓️ filling out and optimizing your LinkedIn profile;
⚓️ distributing your CV to crewing and shipping companies.
Want to know more?
Leave the word “CONTRACT” in the comments or message us at @Seamens_Club_Ukraine — we’ll tell you about all the options.
Seamen’s Club 🇺🇦