Lütjens's preferred way of learning did not scale to fleet command

Lütjens preferred to read files and then seek out a few people whom he believed possessed the best knowledge. This was a workable way to learn and lead in the right setting. On a torpedo boat with only a handful of officers and senior ratings, a small dinner or private conversation could reach nearly every important adviser. A battleship or fleet demanded group discussion among subordinate leaders who would then communicate through their own teams. Leadership skill develops through environment and practice. Because Lütjens rarely had to build that wider communication system, the habits that worked in light forces became a liability in his final command.