What is meant by "leadership by example" in the Marine Corps?

"Leadership by example" in the Marine Corps refers to the practice of embodying the values and behaviors that are expected from subordinates through personal actions. This means that leaders are not only responsible for issuing orders but also for modeling the conduct, work ethic, and commitment to service that they want their team members to emulate. When a leader demonstrates integrity, discipline, and professionalism, it sets a standard for others to follow.

This approach fosters trust and respect within the unit, as subordinates are more likely to respond positively to a leader who practices what they preach. By seeing these ideals in action, Marines can better internalize and apply them in their own conduct.

In contrast, reprimanding those who do not follow orders fails to inspire and may create a culture of fear rather than respect. Delegating tasks effectively can be a sign of good leadership, but it does not encompass the core principle of leading by example. Making decisions without consulting the team can lead to disengagement and a lack of buy-in from subordinates, which undermines the cohesive unit and undermines morale. Therefore, demonstrating expected values and behaviors through personal actions is fundamental to effective leadership in the Marine Corps.