Page 222 - The extraordinary leader

A Case Study in Leadership Development–The U.S. Marine Corps • 199

Marines practice self-development. Their overall development process
creates enthusiasm and pride and generates a philosophy of continual
improvement. The emphasis on absolute honesty and candor is so strong that
it caused at least one observer to wonder if the values of the Marines are not
deviating significantly from those of our society at large.
The personal character dimension of leadership is defined by a set of prin-
ciples that guide Marines’ conduct. The Marines created a book of leadership
principles, and new recruits are expected to memorize 11 leadership principles.
These are the touchstone for all discussions on proper leadership behavior.
Personal Capability. The development process builds the necessary
knowledge about the overall organization, as well as required technical
knowledge about several functional areas. It teaches a rigor in problem solv-
ing and analyzing thorny issues and does that via countless specific exam-
ples presented by senior officers. These sessions consume 50 hours a month
for six months. Through planning multiple missions in short time spans,
leaders learn to sharpen their problem-solving techniques. Being in a feed-
back-rich environment ensures that people will learn ways to improve their
own effectiveness. Innovation is encouraged through a culture that does not
punish failure or tell people exactly how to do things but that emphasizes
desired end states.
On a more mundane yet important level, Marine officers learn to dress the
part. Whether acting as a recruiter, when dress uniforms are often worn in
public gatherings, or as a drill instructor wearing an immaculate uniform and
the “Smokey Bear” hat, how the leader is dressed is important. Along with
dress, one personal capability that officers develop is a command voice.
Clancy writes, “Like the famous ‘rebel yell’ of the Civil War, it is impossible
to describe, but you know it when you hear it.” Clancy notes that every drill
instructor and Series Commander has developed this voice, and that it makes
every statement, comment, or order given to the new recruit “sound like the
voice of God himself. The first time you experience a drill instructor in full
regalia and command voice is something you never forget.” 10
Over time, the Marines seek to broaden the horizons of their people. They
encourage further education, including going to college. The Marines often
pay for attendance at a university. Some are encouraged to seek a commission
as an officer by attending the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis.
Focus on Results. The objective of every method of leadership development
is to provide the tools for accomplishing strategic goals. As suggested earlier,