I didn’t learn how to lead from behind a desk. I learned it in the Marine Corps, standing shoulder to shoulder with people who would only follow you if you earned it — not because of your title, but because of your character.
In business, just like in the military, you can’t order people to care. You earn that. And some of the best leadership lessons I’ve ever carried into an office started with boots on the ground, not a seat at the table.
From 2002 to 2006, I served in the United States Marine Corps. I joined after the attacks on 9/11, like so many others who felt called to serve something greater than ourselves. Those years shaped everything about who I am today — especially the kind of leader I strive to be.
I’ve carried the Marine Corps’ leadership principles into the business world, through high-stakes moments, tough conversations, team restructuring, and operational pivots. And through it all, one quote from my time in uniform has stayed with me:
“Respect for the rank won’t make the Marines charge up the hill toward gunfire — respect for the man will.”
In the Marines, you learn quickly that leadership isn’t about titles, pay grades, or the number of stripes on your sleeve. It’s about trust. Marines don’t follow orders just because you outrank them — they follow leaders who’ve earned their respect through action, humility, and shared sacrifice.
And guess what? Business leadership is no different.
Here are three timeless Marine Corps leadership lessons — told through the stories of famous Marines — that every business leader can learn from:
1. Lead From the Front Like Chesty Puller
Lieutenant General Lewis “Chesty” Puller remains one of the most respected figures in Marine Corps history. Not because of his medals — but because he never asked his Marines to do something he wouldn’t do himself.
During the Korean War, instead of taking shelter in a building, he chose to sleep outside in the freezing cold next to his Marines. He believed in shared hardship and setting the tone.
“You don’t hurt ’em if you don’t get close to ’em.” – Chesty Puller
Business Lesson: Leadership isn’t about status — it’s about presence. If your team is going through a tough sprint, be in the trenches with them. Walk the floor. Take the tough calls. Step into the pressure. Your team won’t forget it — and they’ll go further because of it.
2. Listen Like General James Mattis
General James “Mad Dog” Mattis is known for his strategic brilliance, but those who served under him will tell you — his greatest strength was his ability to listen. He made eye contact. He remembered what you said. He listened not to reply, but to understand.
This earned him the trust of Marines at every level. They believed in him, because he believed in them.
Business Lesson: If you’re not listening, you’re guessing. Your employees know where the gaps are. They know what’s working — and what’s not. Build psychological safety by listening with intent. The truth isn’t always easy to hear, but it’s always the right starting point.
3. Speak the Truth Like Smedley Butler
Major General Smedley Butler wasn’t just one of the most decorated Marines in history — he also became one of the most vocal advocates for veterans’ rights and an outspoken critic of corruption. He had the courage to speak truth to power, even when it cost him professionally.
Business Lesson: Real leadership means doing what’s right — not what’s easy. That might mean standing up for your team, challenging poor decisions, or taking responsibility when something falls short. Integrity builds long-term influence. And that kind of leadership echoes far beyond the boardroom.
Final Thoughts:
I’ve had the privilege of leading teams for over a decade, and I can say without hesitation: the Marine Corps gave me the foundation for it all.
I’ve learned that authority doesn’t inspire commitment — but character does.
People don’t follow titles. They follow trust.
They follow you — if you’ve earned it.
They follow consistency.
Because at the end of the day, “Respect for the rank won’t make the Marines charge up the hill toward gunfire — respect for the man will.”
Whether you’re leading a squad or a service operations team, the principles are the same.
Lead by example.
Listen with humility.
Speak with integrity.
And never forget — leadership is earned daily.
#Leadership #VeteransInBusiness #MarineCorps #ServantLeadership #PeopleFirst #Trust #BusinessLeadership #TeamCulture
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