Leadership in Action: In Focus - Leadership Styles - Comparing Military and Business Leaders

In Focus/Leadership Styles: Comparing Military and Business Leaders

Walter F. Ulmer Jr.

I am sometimes asked about my view of the difference between leadership in the military and leadership in the business world. There are, of course, many similarities. The manuals describing the desired traits and behaviors of the American military leader cite attributes that appear to be universally prized: attention to the mission, caring for subordinates, making the intent of the commander clear, physical courage, and willingness to sacrifice for the benefit of the larger community.

The challenges faced by military or business leaders become more similar the higher one moves up the organizational ladder. Americans who become leaders in either area typically ...