There is always room fro improvement. Albeit I agree
that a good skipper instills confidence. Things like giving
clear direction to crew that are eager to follow orders
makes a big difference. Training crew is important, if you
are like me, and want to see things done in a snappy and
safe manner.

During my last trip to the islands, I had two crew jumping
halyards at various times. They were each slow raising the
sail--to my standards, although it is hardly critical. Finally, I
decided to demonstrate how I did it, which was twice as fast,
while hollering "faster, faster" to the tailer to keep up. It
made a big impression on the crew and I wish I'd done it
earlier in the cruise. I'm a believer in doing some things
fast--particularly reefing.

Tying a knot fast relates to less time spend on the foredeck
or in an exposed position.

There are situations where you can mentally plan ahead to
get better performance from your crew. There are times
when a bit of training will do this also. Simple techniques
like using a crew's name, and slapping him or her on the
shoulder to confirm an order is a good habit to get into in
calm conditions, and clearly gets the message across in all
conditions, including extreme or distracting situations.

I can think of a time where a short order to a helmsman to
stay focused on driving, when their were all sorts of distractions
in the cockpit, would have avoided an injury. Being a good
skipper means anticipating things like this and speaking out
at just the right time.

You and I have talked about keeping crew busy as a good
technique to maintain control and exercise leadership. Why
don't you relate some of your techniques.



"Capt.Mooron" wrote

"Bart Senior" .@. wrote
What are the attributes of an outstanding skipper?

Take a good hard look at yourself, and tell me which
attributes you feel need improvement in yourself.

Tell me what you plan to do to effect such improvements.


Excellent subject Bart.....

I have never questioned my leadership abilities.... they simply exist.
Concerns regarding maintaining discipline, crew dynamics or control have
never materialized. I have no understanding of situations where a Captain
has been challenged or direction has been questioned. It has simply never
occurred aboard any vessel I have skippered.

The ability to deliver command without question is directly associated
with
the confidence and respect you have evoked from the crew. Nothing more and
nothing less. No book smarts nor certifications will ever bestow that on
anyone.

The obligations of leadership must be recognized prior to being
implemented.
These include the vessel and the crew.

Improvements and strong points?..... Command is a dynamic position
requiring flexibility within a rigid operational structure. The dynamics
change with each crew/vessel

Never question your leadership abilities or commands. If you are taking
time
to dissect your leadership skills here.... that uncertainty will in
reality
be reflected onboard and will be seen as a sign of weakness.

The crew's confidence is a measure of the Captain's abilities. You'll have
it down pat when nobody knows who the Captain is.... but the crew!

CM