In the cruise industry, the collaboration between operational and HR functions is critical for success. Yet, a persistent issue undermines this synergy: the tendency of operational leaders to underestimate the complexities of HR, believing it’s “just about managing people.” This flawed perception often leads to operational leaders encroaching on HR responsibilities, dismissing the expertise of HR professionals, and compounding the disconnect between ship and shore.
If you’ve spent even a day in the cruise industry, you’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase: “But we’ve always done it like that.” It’s tossed around like a badge of honor, a comforting mantra that nods to tradition and stability. But here’s the thing - just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it should be. And, in an environment as fast-paced and ever-evolving as a cruise ship, it’s often the quickest path to inefficiency, frustration, and wasted effort.