When issuing orders, what should a leader avoid to maintain confidence among Marines?

Reading from notes verbatim can undermine a leader's effectiveness when issuing orders. When a leader solely relies on notes without engaging with their audience, it can create a sense of detachment and formality that may not inspire confidence among Marines. Maintaining eye contact, exhibiting body language that conveys assurance, and being able to adapt the message based on audience reaction are crucial for effective communication. A leader who reads verbatim may appear unprepared, which can lead subordinates to question the leader's competence and authority.

In contrast, engaging in casual dialogue, developing a natural conversational tone, and expressing confidence in the orders can establish trust and clarity. These methods help in fostering an environment where Marines feel assured in following the orders given.