Advice and helpful hints for a new NCO (E-5)?

Remember that not everything is about the Book. I'm not sure what your MOS is Sgt Walker. But nothing can trump first hand knowledge no matter how recently the Field Manual was revised. Teaching and Mentoring your soldiers does not mean you have to grind them into the dirt at the smallest infraction, they went through basic already.
As for being a leader, just remember you can't lead if they won't follow you. It's on you to gain their loyalty and Respect. Show your soldiers you're about more than their rank. Sure you might hear grumblings about fraternization but thats a whole different monkey. I had no issue sepperating Professional interaction from Personal.

Self confidence is exuded by those who are comfortable enough to be open for improvement. Be able to be wrong and willing to learn from it.

SGT, 1st and for most! You are successful at this point, because you are unaffaird to seek advice, this is the 1st step to becoming a leader. I was enlisted for 15 years, and had the pleasure of serving within the NCO CORP 12yrs.
Live and breathe the NCO Creed, although the are just words, the words define and inspire leadership!

Lead by example in Word, Action and Deeds both 'On and Off' duty.

Remember! You are a direct reflection of what you repersent, and you don't just repersent the United States Army: You repersent what it means to be an American!

No advice here, just a quick congratulations.

Reading suggestions NCO GUIDE FM 7-22.7 & THREE METER ZONE from JD Pendry. Great books to read.

Getting my Sergeants Stripes was one of the proudest moments of my life as I was being recognized for the leadership traits and general concern and care for my section members. I had been working towards this goal and gladly accepted the additional responsibilities that went with the rank. When you make Sergeant there will be people in your unit that will expect things like favoritism and that you might overlook things out of respect for their friendship. Remember that a true professional will never ask you to look the other way and lower your expectations when judging their performance. Be honest, personable but maintain that professional separation when you are in uniform. Look forward as the CSM said. Your Sergeants Stripes are like the beginning of your NCO Career and you will have other opportunities to advance, take them and strive to always be a better leader. Care for your troops, see to it that their needs are met. If they know you are looking out for them they will get their assigned details done and be ready for the next assignment. In other words they will take care of you.

Always reflect on the Army Values, Keep the NCO creed in your heart, always seek knowledge from leadership resources, don't put your personal goals above your soldiers, respect your soldiers, trust your judgement, and lead from the front!!!!

I would advice you to not punish any soldiers till after 6 months from when you get your E5. Learn to lead on a positive attitude and find your leadership style.

Just because you always did what your NCO asked you to do does not mean that your Soldiers will do what you ask. If you tell them to do something, you have to check their work before you tell the platoon sergeant it was done. That was my first mistake as a young NCO. Fortunately my platoon sergeant was understanding and I certainly learned my lesson.

Teach them discipline, and understanding at the same time.  The new enlisted soldiers that show up fresh, do not have the same millitary bearing.