America’s service members are masters of leadership. They’ve led people in the toughest situations imaginable, forging strong ideas about guiding others and executing strategy in the fires of conflict.
But these lessons aren’t only relevant on the battlefield. Their advice can steer your bank or credit union leadership training too. Consider these five pieces of wisdom from top military leaders.
1. “Set your course by the stars, not by the light of every passing ship.” – Gen. Omar N. Bradley
Today’s industry has so many passing lights that it might as well be a disco ball. So, it’s important to distinguish between “trends” and “fads.” In other words, what’s a long-term concern versus a waste of time. For example, AI and digital assets are trends. Viral social media movements are fads. Put the important things in your strategy and don’t get distracted by shiny objects during implementation.
2. “If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.” – Gen. George S. Patton
Consensus is a sneaky danger. When everyone nods their heads and affirms one point of view, there’s a risk people don’t feel free to disagree. And when that happens, ideas aren’t rigorously tested. Leaders must welcome disagreement and encourage diversity of thought. Honest conflict provides multiple options to consider, allowing the best paths forward to rise to the surface.
3. “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” – Adm. Michelle Howard
The hardest part of leadership or executing a strategic plan is action. It’s easier to not take the leap than it is to risk falling flat on your face. But no risks equals no rewards. Sometimes, the only thing separating the top performers from those struggling is the will to implement. Don’t miss your opportunity to act!
4. “Leadership is solving problems. The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them.” – Gen. and Sec. of State Colin Powell
Do people trust your leadership? It’s a vital question. Leadership is all about persuading people to follow you, which means it can’t be done without establishing trust. A title isn’t good enough. Managerial taskmaster abilities aren’t good enough. You need to connect with your team members and instill confidence in your abilities.
5. “Don’t advertise when you are down. When people believe that you are down, they press down; when they think you are up, they push up”. – Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley
Your words and actions have a cultural impact on your organization. You shouldn’t lie to your team, but you should take care to frame setbacks well. An unrealistically negative approach makes people lose hope…which is a recipe for further failures. Have a realistic, yet optimistic, demeanor that encourages people to keep doing the work required to move the needle. You set the example. Set a good one.
Do you need a bank or credit union leadership training bootcamp to elevate your skills to the master level? Book a free consultation with On The Mark Strategies and start developing your team today.
