A lot of us must have stumbled upon this word “Commando” a hundred times but today we’ll get to learn more about it and I bet it will make a lot of sense afterwards. Interestingly the word “Commando” came into existence sometime between 1899-1902, during the Boer war that was fought between South Africa and the British Empire. It was often used to describe the mounted infantry regiments during that period because they were kick ass soldiers.
Today though, we’re using it in a totally different way.
So, being a leader in any sphere of life requires you to inculcate numerous traits a commando possesses. You see, these guys are well drilled in the ways of war and often go against the odds. Commandos are gifted individuals that employ trickery, whim, superior use of weaponry, their sharp mind and of course, superior physical attributes to conduct operations that would normally take a whole army.
The ability of a leader to have greater influence and control in business and other ventures necessitates the need for employing some of the traits of a hardboiled commando. The competitive world of business can easily be likened to war(without killing of course). Businesses are constantly striving for means to get the upper hand, thus requiring leaders to be cut throat, flexible, sharp witted and active, much like the commando.
Another interesting fact about Commando leadership is the unity of purpose. A team of well drilled commandos can take down an enemy fortress with their skillset but key to achieving that is unity of purpose. Movies, though laced with hyperbole always show this fact. As a leader, you have to ensure there’s unison between you and your followers, clear vision of the goal, a path to the target, and the right amount of motivation to keep going.
Soldiers never leave a man behind. It is one of the many tenets of the military. In business, you have to ensure you carry everyone along. Remember, business is like a battlefield and if one man falls behind, you leave gaping holes for competition to capitalize on. This necessitates the importance of being involved in the affairs of your subordinates and aiding in anyway required.
In life and business, every shield matters and the next man is your priority, just as much as the business is. Leaders are to encourage individuals to bring their best traits to the fore and use it to work for the common good.
Camaraderie and positive communication between a leader and his followers is always good for business. This communication gives the followers a sense of belonging and idea about the vision. There will be incentives of various forms, including financial and developmental, but good communication also represents one of the primary means a leader uses to motivate and encourage the team.
Showing uncommon commitment is special leaders must showcase to achieve their goals. Actions like:
- Frequent interaction through media and physical activity
- Open commitments and promises
- Using words of reinforcement
- Versatility and open mindedness
- Strong will and dedication to duty.
These and more are common traits a leader can use to lead by example and as Napolean, the French Conquistador once said, “If you start to take Vienna – take Vienna.”. That’s how to apply the Commando Leadership in business and all spheres of life.
Quite Interesting Piece. Leadership is a very important field because if our leaders fail, the society fails. Thanks for this
Yes, societal growth is solely dependent on the leadership strategy. Because when our leaders fail to meet up with what the society expects of them, the system crashes. A good leader is worth more than gold or rubies. A good leadership system yields great opportunities and results.
This article has so much written in it. From the commando leadership, to business, to setting trails that others can follow suit. Just a piece but many essential ingredients. Thanks dear.!