The last lesson an organization can learn from the Marines is the importance of expectations when implanting your brand into someone’s sense of self. One interesting aspect about the Corp is that even before a new recruit starts basic training, they begin displaying behaviors that the Marines are seeking. Perceived positional behaviors are a strong indicator for role identity as often times individuals will seek to be associated with a particular role because of what they have viewed from others who already have membership. This means that the young men and women who enlist in the Corp already expect to act as a Marine before they even get off the bus at Parris Island. Any organization can achieve this as well. As long as high standards are set, people are properly trained and the organization’s mission is clear, people will follow and meet the expectations that are put before them. The Corp has pulled this off for over two centuries with no evidence of backing down anytime soon.

Every year, thousands of new recruits line up on the famous yellow footsteps waiting to begin their journey as United States Marines. They know that the next twelve weeks and even the years following are going to be difficult; yet these brave men and women are not deterred by what is ahead. They are going to be elite warriors, capable and willing to defend their country at the cost of their own lives if need be. They are going to be tough, they are going to be deadly and they are going to walk in the shadows of millions who have come before them. They are going to be Marines…now and for the rest of their lives. Semper Fi!

J. Travis McDearmon, Ph.D.

To learn more about how role identity can work for you, contact us today and set up a free consultation. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn or Twitter for more insights into this new area of focus.