Semper Fi: What Design Leaders Can Learn from the Marines

When you think of the United States Marine Corps, you might picture disciplined soldiers, rigorous training, and unwavering dedication. But what if I told you that the same principles that make the Marines so formidable can transform your approach to product management and design?

Core Values: The North Star

The Marines live by three core values: honor, courage, and commitment. These aren’t just words—they’re a way of life. Imagine if your design team embraced similar values like integrity, creativity, and user focus. These core values can guide your team through tough decisions and keep everyone aligned with the mission.

Real-Life Example: Think about Apple. Their core value of innovation drives everything they do. When facing a design challenge, ask yourself, “Are we being true to our core values?” This simple check can steer your team towards consistent and inspiring outcomes.

Lead by Example: Walk the Walk

Marines don’t just bark orders—they lead by example. This means showing up, putting in the work, and maintaining high standards. In design, this could mean getting your hands dirty in the design process, staying late to finish a project, or being the first to embrace a new tool or methodology.

Real-Life Example: Consider Elon Musk. Known for his hands-on approach, he often works alongside his engineers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. By demonstrating commitment and passion, he inspires his team to give their best.

Adaptability and Innovation: Semper Gumby

In the Marines, flexibility is key. They have a saying: “Semper Gumby,” which means “Always Flexible.” In the world of product design, things change rapidly—user needs evolve, technology advances, and new competitors emerge. Being adaptable and fostering a culture of innovation can help your team stay ahead.

Real-Life Example: Look at Netflix. They started as a DVD rental service and pivoted to streaming when they saw the opportunity. This adaptability has kept them at the forefront of the entertainment industry.

Decentralized Decision-Making: Empower Your Crew

Marines trust their lower-ranking officers to make decisions in the heat of the moment. This decentralized decision-making allows for quick, effective responses. In your design team, empowering individuals to make decisions can lead to faster problem-solving and a greater sense of ownership.

Real-Life Example: Spotify’s squad model is a great example of decentralized decision-making. Each squad is a mini-startup with the freedom to make decisions and innovate, leading to rapid development and high morale.

Commitment to Team and Mission: All Hands on Deck

Marines are committed to their comrades and their mission. This camaraderie and shared purpose drive them to perform extraordinary feats. In design, fostering a strong sense of team spirit and commitment to project goals can enhance collaboration and productivity.

Real-Life Example: At IDEO, team collaboration is key. They create a strong sense of purpose by deeply involving every team member in the design process, which leads to more innovative and cohesive products.

Continuous Learning: Sharpening the Sword

The Marine Corps emphasizes continuous learning and self-improvement. They know that staying sharp and ready is crucial for success. Similarly, in design, keeping up with the latest trends, tools, and methodologies is essential.

Real-Life Example: Design leader John Maeda continually stresses the importance of learning and growth. By staying curious and embracing new challenges, you can keep your skills and your team’s skills fresh and competitive.

The Power of Shared Experience: Bonding through Battle

Marines form deep bonds through shared experiences, especially in challenging situations. These bonds create trust and a strong sense of unity. For design teams, creating shared experiences through team-building activities, workshops, and collaborative projects can strengthen team cohesion.

Real-Life Example: Google’s use of design sprints brings teams together to solve problems quickly and creatively. This shared intense experience not only leads to innovative solutions but also strengthens team dynamics.

Bringing It All Together

By adopting the Marine-inspired principles, you can elevate your leadership approach and drive your design team toward unparalleled success. Here’s what you can do today:

1. Define and Embrace Core Values: Establish values that resonate with your team and guide your decisions.
2. Lead by Example: Show your commitment through actions, not just words.
3. Stay Flexible: Encourage adaptability and innovation in your team’s approach.
4. Empower Decision-Making: Trust your team members to make important decisions.
5. Foster Team Spirit: Build a strong sense of camaraderie and commitment to shared goals.
6. Commit to Learning: Invest in continuous education and growth for you and your team.
7. Create Shared Experiences: Engage in activities that strengthen team bonds and foster collaboration.

By integrating these lessons into your leadership style, you’ll create a resilient, innovative, and highly effective team capable of navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape. Remember, Semper Fi isn’t just for Marines—it’s a mindset that can inspire you and your team to achieve the next level of greatness.