MacArthur’s 17 Questions


by Larry Poyner

General Douglas MacArthur led American forces in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945. His 17 questions with regard to leadership have been cited in numerous articles and books on Leadership. So, I believe I am in good company to cite these questions once again:

1. Do I heckle my subordinates or strengthen and encourage them?
2. Do I use moral courage in getting rid of subordinates who have proved themselves beyond doubt to be unfit?
3. Have I done all in my power by encouragement, incentive and spur to salvage the weak and erring?
4. Do I know by NAME and CHARACTER a maximum number of subordinates for whom I am responsible? Do I know them intimately?
5. Am I thoroughly familiar with the technique, necessities, objectives and administration of the job?
6. Do I lose my temper at individuals?
7. Do I act in such a way as to make my individuals want to follow me?
8. Do I delegate tasks that should be mine?
9. Do I arrogate everything to myself and delegate nothing?
10. Do I develop my subordinates by placing on each one as much responsibility as he can stand?
11. Am I interested in the personal welfare of each of my subordinates, as if he were a member of my own family?
12. Have I the calmness of voice and manner to inspire confidence, or am I inclined to irascibility and excitability?
13. Am I inclined to be nice to my superiors and mean to my subordinates?
14. Am I a constant example to my subordinates in character, dress, deportment and courtesy?
15. Is my door open to my subordinates?
16. Do I think more of POSITION (STATUS) than JOB?
17. Do I correct a subordinate in front of others?

West Point Way of Leadership

(Source: “The West Point Way Of Leadership” by Colonel Larry R Donnithorne)







2 Responses to 'MacArthur’s 17 Questions'

  1. Jon Poyner - October 26th, 2006 at 3:37 pm

    I’ve been reading some of your past articles and I have to say I am very impressed with everything. You have a vast amount of knowledge and expierience in these fields and it shows. I use most of your tactics in the workplace and I give the credit of my success to you and Grandpa. He raised a fine son that I can honestly say I am proud of.

  2. Linda - January 25th, 2007 at 2:15 am

    WOW…what a wonderful comment from your son. I too am enjoying your articles. Keep em coming

    I am going to print out these questions and review them from time to time just as a reminder of how to be a better leader.


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