Day Work Etiquette: How to Turn One Day Into a Season

Day work is an extended interview. The small behaviours that get you called back.

The Crew Atelier · 5 min read

Before you arrive

Confirm the time, the dock and what to bring. Turn up 15 minutes early in clean whites with your own sunscreen, water and a hat.

On board

Shoes off at the passerelle. Ask where to stow your bag. Ask what the priority is, then work steadily without needing supervision.

During the day

Never sit down before the permanent crew do
Take a break when told, not when you feel like it
Ask before using any product or tool you do not recognise
Finish the job properly, including tidying up

Phones

Out of sight for the whole day. This single habit puts you ahead of most day workers.

At the end

Thank the mate or bosun, confirm your rate and hours in writing, and ask if they need anyone tomorrow.

Follow up

A short message the next morning thanking them and confirming availability. Most permanent junior jobs come from day workers who were already known and liked.