Commander's Intent Powers Strong Leadership

Harvard Business Review · Oct 25, 2026 · 7m

Commander's Intent Enables Great Leadership

15 Oct 2024

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Discover how direct communication, a staple in military leadership, can transform corporate environments. Retired U.S. Army Colonel and Harvard Business School lecturer Hise O. Gibson walks us through "commander's intent" and how it can lead your team to innovation and efficiency. 00:00 Being direct is how military leaders communicate 00:40 Three steps of "Commander's Intent" 02:12 Simplify the "What" for clarity 03:08 Empower through a basic framework 04:36 Define the end state to inspire innovation Books, tools, and more…