Learning to Lead Like a Navy SEAL

Do you have what it takes to lead like a Navy SEAL? We're not talking about achieving the physical fitness of a SEAL. We're focusing on the characteristics of SEALs that define true leadership ability. In the book First, Fast, Fearless: How to Lead Like a Navy SEAL (McGraw-Hill Professional/available in September), author Brian "Iron Ed" Hiner conveys how the classic qualities of this elite military unit—mental toughness, a bias for action, decisiveness, creative thinking, adaptability and perseverance—readily translate into success in the business world. To further illustrate, we've adapted from the book the following 10 examples of how Navy SEAL-styled IT and business leaders act. They address how to pursue initiatives with integrity, and they remain cool under fire. These leaders understand the need to make good decisions based on limited information, while cultivating a "strike first" strategy that directly leads to disruptive innovation. During his 20 years as a SEAL, Hiner was awarded the Bronze Star with "V" for valor and combat leadership. He now runs the Ed Hiner Group, a leadership and team building consultancy.