SUCCESS learned from SPECIAL FORCES ~ John J Arent

Our special forces are incredible defenders of our country.  Not much is written about these extraordinary people due to the covert missions that they engage in but I wanted to devote my blog today to the special forces that risk their lives for us. I learned a lot from reading some "fictional" books that are centered on the CIA, FBI and other "alphabet" organizations that operate secretly and protect our interests. I am a huge fan of fictional thrillers particularly those that involve Special Forces such as the Seals, Army Rangers, Delta Force and the Green Berets among others.  Books by David Baldacci, Harlan Coben,Vince Flynn, James Grippando are among my favorites.  These “Special Operations” elite have a number of skills that top business leaders could benefit from. I believe that the following characteristics could help make our executive teams stronger.

Belief in the Mission ~ Once the assignment has been defined, there is only one goal – Get it done!  Whatever it takes.  As executives, we need to have a clear understanding of the tasks involved in order to complete our mission. All expectations are to be met with no deficiencies.

Total Comprehension of the Mission ~ The goal is always the same, Get it done!  The commandos know that failure is not an option due to the global fallout from failure.  The failure would not only hurt the operation but affect the entire nation and our identity.  Gaining a complete and accurate knowledge of the tasks, using SWOT analysis, maximizing on your strengths and at least neutralizing any weaknesses.

“Deliberate practice & Rehearsal” ~ As mentioned in my blog on June 26^th, beyond the natural abilities that we are born with, the best way to take advantage of those innate skill sets is “deliberate practice”. http://amgtconsulting.blogspot.com/2012/06/talent-and-little-bit-extra-john-j.html

Special Ops use “intelligence” to gather critical information so that they can masterfully plan their operations.  They draw up a blueprint, visualizing and anticipating problems and solutions through pinpoint planning.  Preparation, both mental and physical is key to their productivity.  They work together as a team, with specific tasks assigned with no open questions surrounding the mission.;  Everyone knows their job, expectations and their results.

“Practice makes Perfect” ~ In their planning exercises, all possible results are analyzed and practiced.  During this practice, any unanticipated results are dealt with and much attention is given to both what went right and also what did not go according to plan. Through this series of repetions, they can improve on any imperfections or eliminate those tasks that they felt could derail their plan. The goal during these exercises is to eliminate the source of any distractions and determine what will work best to have positive results.  Key word is FOCUS

“Gather the Correct Equipment and Tools” ~  Master planners of the covert action will make sure that they have the correct equipment in place.  In our setting, it may include various departments  that will have to collaborate on the plans.  This will only be accomplished with the right people.  Those people who put the team above themselves. 

Special Ops are selected due to their individual service history but trained to work as a team.  This blending of a Dream Team is what makes them so effective.  It is also why it is so difficult to do.  Do you have what it takes to learn business lessons from our special forces?