Reprimand Privately

The end result of open reprimand is resentment. ~ Dr. Donna

“Yeller, Power Hungry, and Difficult,” were the characteristics used to describe my leadership style during my early JROTC years. The tactic of embarrassing other cadets was my idea of effective leadership. The result was that the cadets began to resent me because of the constant scrutiny that they were placed under. After being on the receiving end of embarrassment and reprimanding put a whole new perspective on my leadership style.

During a meeting while stationed in Korea my Company Commander embarrassed my entire platoon. He basically told us that we were the worst platoon in the company and we were dragging the Company’s reputation down. The other three platoons stood there and laughed at us. We just stood there and took my Commander’s comments. After the incident, I was very angry and wanted revenge.

Days after my Commander’s antics my platoon continued to experience constant ridicule. I decided to bring my platoon in and told them that we were the best and we were going to prove it. They needed to understand that the Commander’s statements were not true and that the best way to prove someone wrong is to show them.

We set out to be the best in every area. We were the 1st platoon out of four; our motto became “First platoon second to none.” By the end of the year my platoon was the best in the company.

Real Leaders never intentionally hurt or embarrass. When you need to discipline or reprimand someone, take the time to do it behind closed doors.

Dr. Donna

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