What should a leader prioritize when conducting a counseling session?

A leader should prioritize the personal development of the junior Marine during a counseling session because the primary purpose of counseling is to foster growth and improve performance. By focusing on the individual’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities for improvement, and career aspirations, a leader can guide and motivate the junior Marine towards achieving their goals.

This approach builds a trusting relationship, encourages open communication, and supports the junior Marine’s development, ultimately leading to a more effective and cohesive team. Emphasizing personal development also aligns with the core principles of effective leadership, which include supporting and empowering subordinates to reach their full potential.

In contrast, prioritizing one's own expectations, identifying areas for punishment, or focusing solely on organizational objectives undermines the counseling process. These approaches can create a negative atmosphere, discourage open dialogue, and hinder personal growth, which can be detrimental to both the individual Marine and the overall unit cohesion. Thus, the correct practice in a counseling session is to concentrate on the Marine’s development, fostering a supportive and constructive environment.