Qualities of an effective strategic-level leader

COL Vincent Stoneking — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 11:31:42 -0400

I am currently reading http://www.strategicstudiesinstitute.army.mil/pubs/display.cfm?pubID=382

A question for those who have been, or interacted with, a strategic level leader in the military or civilian realm....

Of all the things that you do/did/observed, what is the most important?

Response by 1LT Shawn McCarthy made Jun 22 at 2014 4:16 PM

1LT Shawn McCarthy — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 16:16:58 -0400

It seems to me that many higher level leaders - in the military and the private sector - forget what the battlefield looked like from a front line foxhole.

They made the same shortsighted decisions that they complained about when they were on the front line.

Biggest thing, don't lose sight of the view from the front.
Even visit the front every now and then, talk to the leaders and grunts...

It helps with perspective.

Response by LTC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2014 12:46 PM

LTC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 12:46:29 -0400

They were empathetic and never lashed out at subordinates. They listened and accepted input from there staff and FLLs.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Jun 23 at 2014 1:57 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 13:57:43 -0400

The ability to think outside of the box.

The ability to analyze cause/effect and predict 2nd and 3rd order ramifications of decisions made.