Leadership Strategy and Tactics: Field Manual

Part 2 provides guidance for individuals stepping into leadership roles. The section outlines key principles and tactics to help new leaders navigate their responsibilities effectively and build a strong foundation for their leadership journey.

“How to Succeed as a New Leader”

Willink emphasizes the importance of humility, listening, respect, integrity, balance, decisiveness, and relationship-building in leadership. He advises new leaders to:

• Approach leadership with humility, acknowledging the honor and responsibility of the role.
• Admit to not knowing everything and actively seek knowledge.
• Listen to team members and value their advice.
• Treat everyone with respect, understanding the vital role each person plays.
• Own up to failures and mistakes, while sharing successes with the team.
• Work hard and engage in all aspects of the team’s work.
• Demonstrate integrity in all communications and actions.
• Make balanced, well-considered decisions.
• Build strong relationships, as trust and connection are key to effective team dynamics.
• Focus on the primary objective of leadership: accomplishing the mission.

“How to Be Chosen to Lead”

To increase the likelihood of being selected for leadership roles, Willink advises focusing on performance and teamwork rather than personal ambition: You should:

• Excel in your current role and demonstrate a strong work ethic.
• Volunteer for challenging tasks, even those that are unglamorous.
• Support team success over individual recognition.