Attention to detail is an art form that is more uncommon today than ever before, but it is still an art form that, when mastered, produces amazingly great success! One great example of sheer precision is found at Marine Barricks [8th & I] in Washington, D.C. Often referred to as the Marching Twenty-Four, the 24-man Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon showcases silent unity and rifle maneuvers that marvel the audiences around the world. Part of the Marine Corps Traditions since 1948, the Silent Drill Platoon continues to be the benchmark from which all drill movements are measured. Of course, the Silent Drill Platoon consists of Marines, and they all have to maintain the Marine Corps standards each year on top of performing these exhibitions around the globe. Again, this example resonates throughout all organizations who strive to be the very best within their industries.
Individual Attention to Detail
It all starts at the individual level. Through countless hours of practice, dedication, and attention to detail, these 24 Marines fine-tune their craft to the point wherein it becomes second-nature. The routines are not simple to master, but hard work and determination help them succeed. Having motivated and dedicated employees can make all the difference in the world, and this group of fine young men illustrates that. The organization can lag when one member of the team fails or even just underperforms. Each person is a puzzle piece, and the organization needs each to ensure that it uncovers the greater picture!
Team Work & Cohesion
Having great employees and nothing else will not help your organization reach its goals and mission. Those individuals have to have the skills to come together and work together to ensure that success is reached. The members of the Silent Drill Platoon have great focus and attention to detail, but they also have to work together to ensure that all parts fit together to succeed on their mission. One wrong move by one member of the team can cause failure and [potentially] even injury to others within the platoon.
“A team is only as strong as its weakest link.” ~ Mark Grey
When fluidly working together, the team [and organization] is able to accomplish so much – so much more than if each individual tried to accomplish his or her part on his or her own. So, it is advantageous to organizations to build strong teams and groups. Leaders have to find the right candidates for each job and put the right tools and people around them to help ensure that the job gets done correctly.
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. ~ Aristotle
Lessons Learned
Today’s business and political leaders need to look for ways to pick the right candidates for each job, evaluating skills sets according to the needs of each mission or task. But, their job does not stop there. Leaders have to lead, not simply [just] manage. They have to motivate and encourage their subordinates, and then they need to empower them with the necessary tools to get the job done. For the individual workers, they have to work hard and practice a lot to become the best they can be! Self-motivation and determination will play a big role in whether or not they will find success within groups, within organizations, and within the overall workplace! There’s nothing wrong with some added attention to detail… so long as the mission is accomplished as scheduled!
