Interview Tips for Maritime Professionals Seeking Shore-Based Roles
Making the leap from sea to shore can be a career-defining move - but it also comes with a new set of challenges, especially during interviews. If you’ve spent most of your career offshore, presenting your experience and soft skills in the context of a land-based corporate environment takes a bit of preparation.
Here are 7 key interview tips to help maritime professionals ace their interviews for shore-based roles:
1. Understand the Role Beyond the Job Title
Shore-based jobs - like Technical Superintendent, Marine Coordinator, or Operations Planner - can vary widely depending on the company. Do your research beforehand. Read the job description thoroughly and learn how your skills align with the company’s operational setup.
2. Translate Sea Experience into Shore Skills
Employers want to understand how your hands-on experience will benefit their onshore operations. Focus on:
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Leadership (e.g., managing engine room teams)
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Crisis management
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Compliance and safety procedures
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Technical knowledge relevant to office-based decision-making
🔹 Example: Instead of saying “I was Chief Engineer on a tanker,” say “I led a team of 5, oversaw maintenance budgeting, and ensured ISM Code compliance—skills directly applicable to technical management ashore.”
3. Show Willingness to Learn
Shore-based roles often involve more paperwork, cross-functional meetings, and tech platforms (like planned maintenance systems or crewing software). Show that you’re adaptable and eager to bridge any knowledge gaps.
4. Emphasise Communication Skills
You’ll be liaising with different stakeholders—port authorities, shipowners, technical teams, and suppliers. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly, both at sea and in business settings.
5. Prepare for Competency-Based Questions
Expect questions like:
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“Tell us about a time you resolved a conflict onboard.”
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“How do you prioritise tasks during high-pressure situations?”
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
6. Dress the Part (Even for Virtual Interviews)
While your coveralls worked fine offshore, a smart appearance (even on Zoom) helps show you're ready to step into a corporate environment.
7. Ask Insightful Questions
Show genuine interest in the company and role. You might ask:
Final Thoughts:
Transitioning ashore is more than just a job change—it’s a mindset shift. With the right preparation and framing of your sea experience, you'll stand out as a valuable candidate ready to bring real-world insight to shore-based operations.