Attending the Staff Sergeant board in 2 weeks. I've only been a Sergeant for 6 months. What's your opinion on fast tracking?

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 19:30:22 -0400

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2018 8:22 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 May 2018 20:22:19 -0400

Depends on how you're fast-tracking. If you're mature enough to handle it and learn quickly, it's no different than promoting at the normal pace: promote to potential and grow in your position. I did the same, and it has it's pros and cons. You have less time to gain experience and outshine your SGT peers, fewer opportunities to develop as a junior NCO and get a deeper understanding of that position and its demands. That can cripple your empathy for your Team leaders as a future Squad Leader or PSG. You may also never be fully rated and mentored as a SGT. On the other hand, if you're already capable at the SGT level, then rapid promotion gives you the opportunity to broaden your sphere of influence, challenge yourself to further growth in positions of greater responsibility, make a greater impact on your unit, and develop yourself for even greater progression potential. Just stay on your toes and do the best you can in any position, never stop challenging yourself and others, and never stop learning. It can also be a bit of a shock when one quick promotion after another seems to grind to a halt when you climb the ranks and progression naturally slows. Don't let that bog you down, just search out further challenges in that grade. Congrats on the board - you've obviously made a quick impression on your leadership.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 16 at 2018 10:53 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 16 May 2018 22:53:03 -0400

I will assume you have been in service a little while. I will also assume that your Command believes you to be prepared. Below the zone is earned not given. Thank you for your service.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2018 4:52 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 May 2018 04:52:57 -0400

My opinion, good for you. You have obviously displayed the potential for promotion. Hope you get selected and excell in the future. Just don't let your success get to your head.

Response by SSG Mark Lawless made May 17 at 2018 8:30 AM

SSG Mark Lawless — Thu, 17 May 2018 08:30:05 -0400

I don't think you would be fast tracked if the command did not think you could handle it.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Jan 24 at 2021 6:32 PM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 18:32:52 -0500

I think it's not a good idea in most cases. It takes time to develop the soft skills necessary at each level of leadership responsibility.