Any advice for a new Lieutenant, leaving BOLC and heading for their first PL role?

1LT Ryan Millican — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:33:21 -0400

I will be graduating BOLC here in the next few weeks, and will be heading to my unit as a new Platoon Leader. Any advice out there from some of the more experienced NCOs/Officers? Anything is welcomed.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 1:45 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:45:02 -0400

Listen to your senior NCO. You will have someone who is your most senior enlisted adviser. He or she has been there for a long time and knows what they're doing. Take their advice (obviously within reason).

Also take care of your troops, but don't try too hard to be their friends.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 1:53 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:53:19 -0400

Listen to your NCOs. Remember to stay in your lane. Allow your NCOs to do their job. Ask lots of questions. Make sure to counsel your NCOs and award Soldiers when they do a good job.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Sep 22 at 2015 1:54 PM

MAJ Raúl Rovira — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:54:49 -0400

Listen, Learn, Lead.

Listen to your leaders, peers, mentors, NCOs and younger soldiers. There is always something to learn from everyone. Don't limit your source of input for information and feedback. But dont react to what you initially hear. The first report is always perfect right?

Learn from your mistakes. We all make them. I took an M1A1 underwater (pretty cool and pretty dumb). Learn who is reliable and who is not. Circles of control and circles of influence. Never stop personal and professional development. Knowledge is power.

Lead, at the end of the day you make the decision and you bear the responsibility for success and failures.

Its hard to lead if they dont trust you. Book Suggestion from BN OPD, "Speed of Trust" http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=speed+trust&tag=mh0b-20&index=aps&hvadid= [login to see] &hvqmt=b&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_83zf3mnzbn_b

Amazon.com: speed trust

Response by SFC David Davenport made Sep 22 at 2015 1:55 PM

SFC David Davenport — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:55:33 -0400

Lead by example. The advice to not try and be friends with junior enlisted is spot on. You should take some time to get to know them and appreciate them but there are right and wrong ways to go about it. The NCOs in your platoon should be able to show you an easy way to make that happen. If you need/want ideas send me a message.

Response by SSG Glen Krinsky made Sep 22 at 2015 2:35 PM

SSG Glen Krinsky — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 14:35:38 -0400

Listen to your platoon sergeant!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 2:50 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 14:50:45 -0400

First and foremost, know your job and know your lane. This is all that training you have been gaining through your officer schools. That should be a good base to start off. Leading by example is huge when it comes to gaining respect. When you get to your unit immediately get your commanders guidance on his goals and vision for the unit, then have a sit down with your PSG to ensure everyone is on the same page. Take some time to sit back and observe how things run, please do not just go in there and pretend you know everything, this just causes loss of respect and eventually low morale when you are perceived as a arrogant yet clueless. Know the TLPs, OPORDs and the your Commanders METL, this is what you bring to the fight, planning operations to meet the overall end state, your NCOs will have a lot of input so ensure they are being considered; however, at no time should they be doing your job. You will do great, just continue learning and growing, self development will also be key. Enjoy it. My PL days were the best I can recall.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 22 at 2015 3:45 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 15:45:24 -0400

You can start with addressing your branch.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Sep 22 at 2015 3:46 PM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 15:46:07 -0400

Be a sponge. Talk to your platoon sergeant frequently and ask questions. Same with your senior NCO’s. Know drill & ceremonies. If you have WO’s in your unit ask to sit down with them (have specific questions prepared). Learn how to delegate. Get to know your commanders and their intent, command style and likes/dislikes. Obtain copies of their OER support forms. Learn everything about NCOPD. Get to know your peers and ask questions. Be careful not to become a “good idea fairy.” If you have something to say in an official capacity be prepared for naysayers and rebuttals. Lead by example. Make sure you can do whatever you ask your Soldiers to do. Start learning something about the MOS’s of your Soldiers and interact with them – don’t be that officer who is above associating with enlisted Soldiers. Take care of your Soldiers. Learn about writing awards, what the status is of pending awards and who is deserving of an award. Know your job and what is expected of you. Learn how to write NCOERs and what a good one looks like – same for counseling statements. When it’s time for PMCS, go out and help - you need to know how to do this. I could add more but that should be a good start. Good luck!

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Sep 22 at 2015 4:07 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 16:07:59 -0400

Listen and learn. Trust your gut. Do what is right, always. Take care of your men and mission. Figure out who is the best officers and NCOs in your unit and copy what they are doing right. Identify the best officer you can find and tell them they are going you mentor you.

Remember, it is easier to be really strict and loosen up than it is to be too lax and tighten up.

The real difference between the genius and the idiot is that they make the same mistakes initially, but genius learns from his mistakes and quietly moves forward...not making the same mistake again. The idiot goes, "Hey, did you see what I just did?" Try not to be too much of an idiot.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 4:51 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 16:51:10 -0400

Mr. Millican-Please allow me to first congratulate you on what I trust will be the start of a challenging and rewarding career as a serving officer. I will add to the invaluable advice offered by the senior enlisted professionals on RP who have wisely suggested learning as much as you can from your senior NCOs. As a former enlisted man yourself, use that experience, but avoid thinking of yourself as "other" than new to the job. You'll have an advantage over true "butters"...but it's a new view from a new post, and the more you listen, the more you'll learn and serve as a credit to your platoon and service. I would imagine that the NCOs who know you are prior service will expect great things from you; I would also imagine that your Platoon Sergeant will be eager and proud to train a willing Platoon Commander coming up from the ranks.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Sep 22 at 2015 5:21 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 17:21:19 -0400

Not in any particular order:
1.) Be technically & tactically proficient.
2.) Learn (but, don't do) the job of everyone for who you write evaluations.
3.) Trust your Staff NCO's. Let them handle the NCO's. Let your NCO's handle everything else.
4.) 2ndLt's make mistakes. That's OK. Learn from them.
5.) Make sure your subordinates eat first.
6.) Keep current on your LPA (Lieutenants Protective Association) Dues. Your fellow 1st & 2ndLt's may have already "been there & done that." Warrant Officers are good resources too.
7.) Show humility, compassion, dignity, & respect to all --to include families --regardless of rank.
8.) Go to your S-1 (Personnel) and read through the Service Records of everyone in your platoon.
9.) Mission is always first.
10.) In choices of morale v. morals --morals always better.

Congratulations on your pending commission! Semper Fi & Welcome Aboard! ( ...or whatever the Army would say.)

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 5:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 17:56:32 -0400

First off, Congratulations on your new position as platoon leader! From an NCO that was been around for a while, I would ask that you listen to your NCO's as they have many, many years of experience. Remember that if, and when it comes down to the wire.. these are the men and women are the ones that have your back and complete the mission, so make sure to have theirs. Remember also that respect is earned, not a privilege. Thesse are just a few tips that might make the journey a little easier! I wish you well young Lieutenant!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 8:41 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 20:41:21 -0400

You are here asking for advise, you are already in the right track. Continue to do that once you arrive at your unit.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Sep 22 at 2015 9:20 PM

SGT Richard H. — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 21:20:31 -0400

There's a lot of repeats of "Listen to your NCOs" which, obviously, I agree with. My advice would be the same, but don't let being decisive fall to the wayside. YOU are the Platoon Leader. Use their advice, accept their mentorship, but ultimately remember that the decisions and their repercussions fall to you.

Response by Col Richard Roessler made Sep 22 at 2015 10:16 PM

Col Richard Roessler — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 22:16:07 -0400

I would recommend (note: though I am an Air Force Officer now, I was an Army Guard Artillery Officer for about eight years)
#1 Be Yourself -- Don't try to become the 'text book officer'
#2 Admit Your Mistakes or if You Don't Know Something -- One of my best experiences as a Junior Officer was as the BN Maintenance Officer, I admitted to the W-2 that I did not know squat about engines (and still do not know how to change my own oil). The Warrant handled the technical matters and I handled the staff stuff--pinging BTRY Commanders about maintenance--because I knew what I knew (and more importantly what I did not)...the BN XO was thrilled with our BN's motor pool probably for the first time in years since I did not pretend to know everything about being a mechanic and concentrated on my strengths/what my folks needed from me
#3 Listen to your Senior NCO (but understand that you are still the one in charge)
#4 Do the right thing (actually this should probably be #1 or 2, so this is not really in order)
#5 If it's messed up its your fault/If it goes right it is because your troops accomplished it. The second you get that reversed, you are toast!
#6 Stand-up/Advocate for your Soldiers And Know What They Need to Be Successful/be Promoted
#7 Read, Learn (Sort of goes with #3 but you've got to do your homework too)
#8 Plan...know the training calendar--is there a big exercise, deployment coming up--ensure your platoon's equipment, training, etc. is getting accomplished
#9 Be Yourself -- Yes I repeated this...it is the most important thing for any officer. If you try to be someone else it won't work for you...and your troops will see through you from three thousand miles away
# 10 Last point: Throw away the list I just gave you and any other list that anyone else gives you and make your own. If you are going to 'be yourself' you need to do what is comfortable for you!
Good Luck. I am jealous being a Platoon Leader is hard work, but rewarding!

Response by SGT James Vidito made Sep 23 at 2015 9:38 AM

SGT James Vidito — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 09:38:59 -0400

Your Platoon Sergeant is your best asset. Use their wisdom.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2015 10:43 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 22:43:53 -0400

Listen to your PSG, and NCOs, but don't be afraid to make your own decisions. Use the wisdom of your NCOs, but remember that you are ultimately in charge and responsible for everything your platoon does or fails to do. Embrace the fact that as an Officer you work for your Soldiers, as well as your Commander. Don't be afraid to fight for the welfare of your men/women, but know when to salute the flag and drive on. Your Soldiers determine your fate, and if you take care of them, they will take care of you. Don't hesitate to discipline them when necessary, but consider the totality of the circumstances before you do. Be honest in all you do. Work hard to ensure your Soldiers are trained for war, but remember to give them time to relax. Live the Army Values, and always strive to choose the hard right over the easy wrong. Most of all, enjoy your time as PL, it is the most rewarding job in the Army.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 8:40 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 20:40:55 -0400

Talk to your soldiers, get to know them. Counsel them and let them know your expectations. Give them growth and correctional counselings and lead them from the front!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 3:14 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 03:14:18 -0400

Shut up, listen, and be open to ideas and criticism from others. Know D&C, and at least the basics of your unit's mission before you start talking to Soldiers, making plans, or giving your opinion on things. Become familiar with leave forms, and the basics of non-judicial punishment (this way if your CDR evers asks your opinion on the punishment for a Soldier you can give an intelligent answer). In closing, try to learn as much as possible from everyone in your unit, look for the subject matter experts but also let Soldiers explain their job to you and learn from them.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2015 3:00 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 15:00:37 -0400

Find other Signal officers at your duty station to network with. They can help you with creating products, training requirements, and any issues you have. A good leader ensures their unit/platoon is doing everything right, but a great leader does that and ensures the other units/platoons are squared away as well. Be confident in your decisions, and always be open to suggestions.

Response by CPT Thomas Boone made Sep 30 at 2015 3:45 PM

CPT Thomas Boone — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 15:45:09 -0400

Upon your first assignment, you will be put in charge of some enlisted. If you have one that is a senior NCO and trained, ASK that NCO to teach you. DO NOT exhibit an attitude of know it all!!!

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Oct 2 at 2015 12:43 PM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 12:43:52 -0400

One last thing when it comes to an “incident” where someone may be punished: I was a cop for 21 years. People frequently believe the first version reported of an incident. Never fall into this trap. Remain unemotional (as much as possible), remain objective, always wait until ALL the evidence is received and don’t be influenced by higher “pressure” because someone needs to take the fall. You are dealing with people’s lives and careers – I’ve seen officers punish or over punish Soldiers because someone higher wants it done when it is uncalled for. This is when you need to take a hard look at yourself and your own personal code. Regardless the point is this: Obtain ALL the evidence before making judgements and stay objective. Remember that people make mistakes – find out WHY they did what they did. Do the right thing.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 2 at 2015 8:00 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 20:00:32 -0400

What is your branch and why is it a secret?

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Oct 2 at 2015 8:07 PM

GySgt Moses Lozano — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 20:07:34 -0400

Always lead from the front and take care of all of your troops but be stern when you have to be.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arthurs made Oct 7 at 2015 4:02 PM

MAJ Matthew Arthurs — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 16:02:24 -0400

There's a lot of great advice here... mine won't help make you better at your job, but is still a bit of professional development - drop the (P) after your rank. Promotable is not a rank, and is only to be listed immediately after your rank if you are promotable and filling a billet of the next higher rank. For example, if you are a promotable 1LT filling a CPT's billet. It signifies that you are receiving credit at that higher rank position based on your selection for promotion. If you were a 1LT(P) in a CO Cdr billet, you would receive KD time as a CPT. Generally, all lieutenant MTOE/TDA positions are coded for 1LTs as it is assumed you will be promoted, 2LT and 1LT are interchangeable and it does not count as serving in the higher billet.
Take it as you will, but you will see a lot of your fellow officers making that mistake throughout their careers. Don't get me wrong, being promoted to the next rank is an admirable achievement and I can't fault your for being proud.

Response by CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 9:43 AM

CPT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 09:43:02 -0400

I agree with CW4 Hamilton, you have to be a sponge. Take your first 30 days to really take in the good and bad of your new unit. Do not be surprised if you don't immediately get a platoon. It is completely normal for a new LT to sit in the S3 shop for a couple of months prior to take a Platoon. And always listen to the advice of the senior NCO's in your unit, take what makes sense to you and develop your self as a leader.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2015 10:43 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Oct 2015 10:43:59 -0400

Have a good relationship with your PSG and Soldiers and listen to them. Don't be that PL that thinks he's the only one in charge. You are just the new guy in the platoon. They've been there way before you. Get to know all of them and their personal lives. I got lucky with mine and have excellent platoon sergeants and squad leaders that make my job easy. I've been a PL for 15 months now. I don't change this experience for anything. Take care of your Soldiers. Take care of your Soldiers. Don't get disappointed if you don't get a platoon right away. Even if you go to the S3 to wait for a platoon, learn everything you can and don't whine and stay focus.

Response by MAJ Frederick Myers made Oct 20 at 2015 12:49 AM

MAJ Frederick Myers — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 00:49:01 -0400

From twenty-one years ago, CAPT Michael Kukuk, USMC, at AOBC, Ft. Knox (slightly paraphrased):
"Put this hand here (right hip), and this other hand here (left hip). Now adopt a neutral but serious expression. If you have a happy kind of face, then force yourself to scowl a bit. Practice that in the mirror until you can do it unselfconsciously and naturally, spur-of-the-moment. Now, for the first ninety days . . . AT LEAST, GENTLEMEN . . . if you have to be seen, and you usually do, find your platoon sergeant, walk up close to him and do that. Just that. Nothing else. Talk only to the platoon sergeant. If you have a question, go sotto voce. If you are absolutely confident you know what you're talking about, speak just loud enough for those around to hear you. Other than that, keep your ears wide open and your mouth firmly closed. You will know you have mastered that when your platoon sergeant invites your input and asks for your instructions in front of the soldiers. He doesn't need it of course, but he's reinforcing your new knowledge and boosting your confidence, making you look good in front of them. When he asks you home to dinner with his wife and family, you'll know he considers you a good learner; when he asks you to come out and have a few beers somewhere, just the two of you, you'll know he considers you experienced enough to actually hang with a bit. That's when you can be sure you have passed beyond completely useless into a productive member of the platoon, and a developing young officer.
"Oh, and never, never, never, ever . . . EVER . . . when speaking with Captains and above, begin a sentence with the words, 'Well, sir/gentlemen, based upon MY experience . . . "

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Jul 19 at 2016 1:38 PM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 13:38:24 -0400

Stop in Benning and go through Ranger school. If you cannot attend for what ever reason, at a very minimum be very physically fit. No one respects an officer who can't hang with his men.