Hanging over the entrance to the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School is a sign that reads, "Ductus Exemplo," which translates from Latin to "Leadership by Example." The sentiment behind the sign shouldn't come as much of a surprise, as the cornerstone and history of military leadership is one of setting the example and leading from the front. Renowned military leaders such as Joan of Arc, Genghis Khan and Alexander the Great personally led their forces in battles.
Summary
This piece emphasizes leadership by example—Ductus Exemplo—and how the principle translates from the military to the corporate world. It urges professionals to model the behavior they expect from others, take cues from their boss on communication and attire, and maintain professionalism whether already leading or preparing to lead. For veterans, it recommends leveraging core military values while adapting to subtler corporate norms, supported by programs like Genesis10’s “reverse boot camp.” Following your leader’s example helps ensure alignment and avoid missteps.
Set the Example, Whether Leader or Subordinate
Though leadership by example does occur in the corporate world, I doubt you will find a plaque proclaiming "Ductus Exemplo" at the entrance of many offices. If you think back to the bosses which you liked working for the most, did any practice a "Do as I say and not as I do" mantra? I'm guessing not. The best leaders strive to lead by example in the workplace.
As you grow and develop as a business professional, think about the example you are setting.
- Do you over-imbibe at work-related social functions?
- Are you late for work?
- Do you complain about tasks your boss gives you?
These choices reflect leadership by example and shape how others model their behavior.
I'm guessing most people who work in roles where they have direct reports said "no" to each of the above questions. That's because they know that they set the example for those they supervise. Conversely, if you would like to grow into a role where you have direct reports, then setting a strong example of professionalism is a great way to show your boss and others that you are ready to take the next step.
Take Your Cues from Your Boss
Additionally, take your social and business cues from your boss: Last week, I was facilitating a conversation with recent college graduates, both veteran and non-veteran, when the discussion turned to different styles of communication with your boss. Each person answered with what they thought was appropriate communication ranging in formality from shorthanded texts (think "IDK" and "OMG") to formally written and formatted memos. Understanding office communication etiquette can help you decide which approach fits your environment.
The communication styles used within the corporate world definitely differ with communication in the military. If you are initially unsure of the preferred communication style for your office, err on the side of caution and refrain from using more casual language and modes of communication. Pay attention to your supervisor's style of communicating and use that as a benchmark for your own communications.
Similar to communication style, take the lead from your boss regarding work wardrobe. If your office is more casual -- think polo shirts and khakis, you'd look out of place if you came to work every day in a full suit and tie. This is the corollary to Ductus Exemplo, that if you follow your leader's example, you will rarely, if ever be considered in the wrong.
It's The Same in Business and Military
The great thing about serving in the military is that conduct, decorum, and punitive rules are explicitly stated. As you transition out of the service, do not forget those lessons learned.
As part of my job as Veterans Program director at Genesis10, I host a "reverse boot camp" for veterans transitioning to civilian careers with our clients. During this time of training, we do not intend to undo the lessons the military taught. Rather, we seek to build upon those core values which were instilled upon you.
It may take some time adjusting to the corporate world and its more subtle and nuanced code of conduct, but remain observant and you will catch on.
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Q&A
Question: What does “Ductus Exemplo” mean, and why is it relevant to the workplace?
Answer: “Ductus Exemplo” is Latin for “leadership by example.” The article explains that while this principle is rooted in military history—where leaders like Joan of Arc and Alexander the Great led from the front—it translates directly to business. In corporate settings, modeling the behavior you expect from others (professionalism, accountability, and decorum) builds credibility, aligns teams, and reduces missteps.
Question: How can I lead by example if I’m not a manager yet?
Answer: Demonstrate the professionalism you want others to see: be punctual, keep a level head at work-related social events, avoid complaining about assignments, and follow through on commitments. These habits signal readiness for greater responsibility and show your boss you can be trusted to lead.
Question: How do I determine the right communication style with my boss and team?
Answer: Take your cues from your supervisor. Observe their preferred channels (email, chat, memo, text), tone, and formality, and mirror that approach. If you’re unsure, start more formal—avoid shorthand like “IDK” and “OMG”—and adjust as you learn the team’s norms. Aligning with your leader’s style helps ensure clarity and fit.
Question: What should guide my decisions about workplace attire?
Short answer: Follow your boss’s and office’s norms. If the culture is casual (e.g., polos and khakis), wearing a suit daily can be out of place; if it’s more formal, dress accordingly. The corollary to “lead by example” is “follow your leader’s example”—matching their standard keeps you in step with expectations.
Question: I’m a veteran transitioning to corporate life—how should I adapt, and how can Genesis10 help?
Answer: Bring your core military values—conduct, decorum, accountability—but expect subtler, less explicit corporate norms. Stay observant, adjust your communication and dress to your leader’s style, and you’ll catch on. Genesis10 supports this shift with a “reverse boot camp” that builds on military strengths for civilian roles, and its recruiting team (150+ experienced recruiters) helps candidates find contract, contract-to-hire, and permanent opportunities across technology and business functions.
