Military Leadership Challenges

Great Essays
OUTLINE:

Introduction

I. Leadership requirements

II. Challenges of modern military leadership

III. Possible solutions/ training course for young cadets

Conclusion

Bibliography

Introduction:
Since the early beginnings of societies as we know them, the interaction between a leader and his team has always raised controversy and been subject of countless debates. Even the Neanderthals, who lived over 20,000 years BC, were organized in clans, with a leader, most likely the wiser, or the strongest man in the herd. Similarly, animals such as lions before our ancestors were, and still are, organized in a very precise and defined hierarchy, where, the oldest or the strongest guides its group.
This simplistic and archaic system, however,
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Modern military leaders ought to adapt to a new warfare as well as to a new state of mind, in order to remain credible and respected.

Consequently, it is interesting to ponder on the challenges faced by modern military leaders along with the possible training course that could be given to young cadets to appreciate their future role of officer. How to deal with the evolution of warfare and persist as a valuable leader? Which threats have to be overcame, and how?
First of all it is crucial to identify the varied qualities necessary to tackle those challenges. In addition, many challenges can be underlined, both in the interaction with subordinates and with chiefs. Finally, some comparison can be done between the different ways of teaching cadets how to command, and improvements can be brought to this
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Honesty is one of the main qualities a leader should possess. Firstly, honesty towards himself, reckoning when he is not able to deal with a challenge, and accepting to take advantage of the knowledge of his team, or referring to the competent authorities on the matter. Furthermore, honesty towards his chiefs, sharing information and ideas, in order for the mission to be carried out safely, despite the consequences it could have on his career. Last but not least, a valued military leader ought to be honest with his subordinates; the truth has to be accepted, as harsh as it may be, not hidden. Making a soldier run over a hill, not knowing what’s on the other side, but willing to fight for the cause he is running for, is the pride of any good

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