Tact:

   Tact is the ability to deal with people without causing friction or giving offense.  More simply stated, tact is the ability to say and do the right thing at the right time.  You must use tact not only when dealing with seniors but with subordinates.  To successfully use tact, you must be courteous because courtesy, when given, will usually be returned.  It is important that courtesy not be misunderstood as "brown-nosing." Inexperienced NCO's may wrongly feel that politeness in a military command is a sign of weakness.  All orders given will be obeyed but those given with courtesy will be obeyed willingly.  Even in emergency situations where orders must be abrupt and rapid, there is no room nor need for discourtesy.  Usually you will find that a calm and courteous, though firm, manner of speech gets the best results.  Tact becomes very important when dealing with criticism of a subordinate.  Lack of tact can crush a Marine's spirit and initiative.  Criticism must be made in a manner which will point out a weakness in the subordinate's actions but still encourage the subordinate to continue to show initiative.  To develop the leadership trait of tact you must:

                                                ·         Be considerate.  Develop the habit of cooperating in spirit as well as in fact.

·         Study the actions of successful senior NCO's who enjoy a reputation for being able to handle Marines successfully.

·         Check yourself for tolerance and patience.  If at fault, correct your habit.

·         Apply the Golden Rule: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.  It is vital to teamwork.

·         Let no Marine, superior or subordinate, exceed you in courtesy and consideration for the feelings of others.

EXAMPLE:

1. A Marine discreetly points out a mistake in drill to a NCO by waiting until after the unit has been dismissed and privately asking which of the two methods are correct -- anticipating that the NCO will realize the correct method when shown, and then provide correct instruction to the unit.

REFERENCE:  Marine Corps Values and Leadership User's Guide for Discussion Leader