Best advice for Soldier of the Month board??

2013-11-21T20:47:15-05:00

I was given notice about a week ago that I was selected to go to the soldier of the month board this Monday. So I am feeling a little ill prepared. Does anyone have any advice or experiences they would like to share with me to maybe help better prepare me for Monday or future boards to come.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2013 9:09 PM

2013-11-21T21:09:25-05:00

Limited notice sucks, but it is part of the 'built in stress' of boards.

-get the MOI, study the topics carefully
-brush up on current events
-make sure you have a sponsor, and that they know enough about you to be credible before the board
-Today: study, Friday: study, Saturday:Study, Sunday- rest and decompress, Monday Win the board.

It isn't an easy task but it can set you up for success in front of your senior enlisted leadership.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Nov 21 at 2013 9:17 PM

2013-11-21T21:17:06-05:00

This may seem a bit hind-sighted (but comes from experience), you should always be studying (if even a little bit) often and be ready to appear before, compete in and win any board/competition that's put in front of you.

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Nov 21 at 2013 9:21 PM

2013-11-21T21:21:23-05:00

A week is more then enough time to prepare for any board. Make sure your uniform is properly put together, exude confidence and demonstrate a grasp of Army knowledge to the board members. Practice in front of a mirror answering questions that may be asked. Just come out knowing that you did your best and use this experience to build on for future boards.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2013 9:27 PM

2013-11-21T21:27:52-05:00

You have to get your section to run you through rehearsal/mock boards. At least three. No better way to build confidence.

Response by CSM Stuart C. O'Black made Nov 21 at 2013 9:37 PM

2013-11-21T21:37:02-05:00

A bit long but you asked:

If you get a board memo and actually study
you will do well. If you go beyond that and do most of the things below you
will win. Good luck and understand your NCOs think you are squared away already
or they would not have asked – told.

1) Make sure you were given the board memo so
you know which subjects to study.

2) Know who will be sitting on the Board -
situational awareness only.

3) Talk to past members who went to a similar
board - especially if you know a past winner.

4) Have your fellow Soldiers ask you question
at work. Let everyone know you are going and want help learning. See if your
NCOs will set up a mock board so you understand how the board proceedings will
work and it will give you practice under pressure.

5) Confidence is number 1 - even if you get
an answer wrong it is best to be confidant it is correct answer than sound
like you are guessing. ***I cannot overstate enough that your military bearing
and confidence as a Soldier is very important. Probably the most important
thing when going to boards.

6) Practice your opening statement - meaning
if they ask you to tell them about yourself you are prepared. Don’t draw it out
and hit the main points, the highlight of your career so far. You’re your short
term and long term goals. Focus mostly on your military goals but schools and education
is okay as well.

7) Don’t
just use study guides. Soldiers and Leaders will tell you to go to
studyguide.com and study the area your board published. True a lot of boards
use study guides but be familiar with the regulation, ARs, FMs etc… Also, if
military programs are on your Board memo do one important thing. GO TO those agencies. You will learn far
more than any a piece of paper and be able to answer more than just the basic
stuff everyone else says.

8) Don’t
forget what you have learned. It is not just about a board but making you a
better Soldier and future leader. What you learn during the process will make
you successful throughout your career. It will help you take care of your
Soldiers in the future.

Your
NCOs must have some faith in you otherwise they would not want you to go and represent
them at a board. So be proud they asked and even if you don’t win know you
already succeded by representing your command.
If you win there will be more boards ahead and if not ask if you can go
back again later. Don’t give up and quit just because you lost a board. Do all
of the above and I am confidant you will be successful.

Finally
understand the Army has huge repect for its Medics. Here is a little of your history with Aviation
Medics.

Major Charles L. Kelly was DUSTOFF and DUSTOFF was
"Combat Kelly." The two became synonymous in Vietnam in 1964. As
commander of the 57th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance), Kelly assumed
the call sign "DUSTOFF." His skill, aplomb, dedication, and daring
soon made both famous throughout the Delta. The silence of many an outpost was
broken by his radio draw, "...this is DUSTOFF. Just checking in to see if
everything is okay." And when there were wounded, in came Kelly
"hell-bent for leather!" On 1 July 1964 Kelly approached a hot area
to pick up wounded only to find the enemy waiting with a withering barrage of
fire. Advised repeatedly to withdraw, he calmly replied to the ground element's
advisor, "When I have your wounded." Moments later, he was killed by
a single bullet. Kelly was dead but his "DUSTOFF" became the call
sign for all aeromedical missions in Vietnam. "When I have your wounded"
became the personal and collective credo of the gallant DUSTOFF pilots who
followed him. Major Charles L. Kelly was inducted into the DUSTOFF Hall of Fame
on 17 February 2001.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Nov 21 at 2013 9:40 PM

2013-11-21T21:40:36-05:00

This is what RallyPoint is all about right here -- a motivated Soldier asking for the right types of advice, and getting awesome professional insights and tips from both NCOs and Officers...all within 1 hour! Thanks for making this fast-growing professional network what it is. We are excited to see this happening for everyone involved! Onward and upward!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2013 9:57 PM

2013-11-21T21:57:50-05:00

Limited notice is NEVER a good thing, but it's how the Army rolls, that's why you as a Soldier have to remain flexible and ALWAYS be prepared.

*****I WILL NEVER ACCEPT DEFEAT*****
*****I WILL NEVER QUIT*****

Utilize both of these from the Warrior Ethos to help you prepare yourself.

Now that I've gotten that outta the way, as the Leaders before me have said, take the little time you have to prepare yourself. Use tomorrow, Saturday AND Sunday to prepare.....I know what you're thinking ----- did he really just suggest giving up my weekend??? It happens to us all from time to time.

Here are some of my suggestions/advice:

>>>>>BE CONFIDENT!!!!!! (On such short notice, they may think you won't have it cuz you didn't have more than a week to prepare)

>>>>>Ensure your military bearing is PRISTINE as it is a big factor and you will be graded on it.

>>>>>DON'T CRAM!!!! With such a short suspense, it's okay to not know everything, study what the MOI requires and go in there knowing that you are going to give it your best. DON'T TRY TO OVERLOAD YOUR BRAIN!!!!!

>>>>>Use your Big Girl/Outdoor voice. Also known as your Command voice (this is the one time where it's okay to yell at your Leadership).

>>>>>Leave your nerves at the door. They don't have a place in the board with you.

Have your battle buddies start tonight by quizzing you on all the board topics. Teamwork is a great thing and make it fun, you just might retain more information if you're interested in doing it.

This comment is a bit lengthy but as a Leader, I can NEVER pass up an opportunity to help a Soldier if I can. Now go out there and make us all proud by becoming that

SOLDIER OF THE MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Nov 21 at 2013 10:26 PM

2013-11-21T22:26:21-05:00

Many of the points so far are very good. Make sure you know who your sponsor is, and that your sponsor knows you. They should be at your mock board as well. The Questions he/she asks you during the mock will do you in good stead when he repeats your answers to the board when asked about you and why they are sponsoring you. Your sponsor will set the tone for your board proceeding, it helps if he speak effectively for you before you walk in.

Has the uniform variation you are supposed to wear been dictated in the memo? If provided a choice between slacks and skirt, go with the slacks. That will avoid any misconceptions if you get fidgetty while sitting before the board. (Yeah, I know, stupid, but it has to be said sometimes).

Be proud of where you came from.
Be proud of who you are.
Be proud of your unit.
Be respectful.
Be professional.

If any one suggests behavior at the board that seems contrary to that, get a second opinion, preferably not from the friends of the person giving the shady advice.

Response by SFC Ricardo Ruiz made Nov 21 at 2013 10:50 PM

2013-11-21T22:50:59-05:00

You are selected to represent your unit in the upcoming board. You are already a winner. Stay focus over the weekend. Take every piece of advice from here. But remember the more time you spend in this website the less time you have to study. Hit the books be competitive and remember the other soldiers going to the board want this opportunity to prove they are the best. Keep up the good work and win that board.

Response by SFC James Baber made Nov 21 at 2013 11:11 PM

2013-11-21T23:11:25-05:00

I can't add too much more than what all the superb NCOs and Officers have already espoused, just be yourself, have confidence and do your best, that is all anyone can ask, and the NCOs on the board will have more respect for you more than anything else if you exude confidence and realism in who you are and the acceptance of yourself doing your best.

Good luck and you will be successful, and will make a strong and valuable NCO someday, you already have the go get it attitude.

Response by SFC Michael Boulanger made Nov 22 at 2013 10:26 AM

2013-11-22T10:26:35-05:00

-Uniform, Uniform, Uniform... double and triple check it and have some friends look it over also (make sure that it matches your ERB)

-If you are asked a question and you don't know the answer to it don't guess just tell the board "I do not know the answer to the question at this time".

and don't look up in order to find the question in your head because they may subtract points for that (military bearing)

-If you know some of the question answer what you know because they may give you partial credit

-Make sure you know the regulars like Soltiers Creed, Warrior Ethos, Army Values, ect....

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2013 11:20 AM

2013-11-22T11:20:52-05:00

Also, knock the door down when you knock...;)

Response by CW3(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2013 11:46 AM

2013-11-22T11:46:10-05:00

I think everyone here has hit all the points that I would have. Good luck.

Response by SFC Michael Boulanger made Nov 22 at 2013 12:45 PM

2013-11-22T12:45:58-05:00

Did they give you a list of the subject areas the questions will come from?

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2013 12:59 PM

2013-11-22T12:59:57-05:00

PV2 Keffer,

I sent you a Board Bio Template on DOD mail. Feel free to use and share.

Response by MSG Tim Waychoff made Nov 24 at 2013 3:08 PM

2013-11-24T15:08:52-05:00

PV2 Keffer,

     Good luck at your upcoming board. You've already received a tremendous amount of very good advice. SFC Marcus Tyler already covered one of the most simple, but empowering ones - which I was going to add.

     When you get ready to enter, place your foot against the bottom of the door before you deliver those three thunderous knocks. This will keep the door from rattling, vibrating or anything else that would take away from the impact of those three solid knocks. When you do knock, use the bottom of your fist. Knuckles are a sharp, higher-pitched sound. As SFC Tyler said, and CSM O'Black agreed with, deliver three succinct and thunderous knocks. It sends a message to the board members that the Soldier that is about to enter is serious about the board, and she/he mean business.
     It will also help to calm any nerves that might be trying to get the best of you. This is your board, you are in control of it. Announce that before you arrive in the room.

     You asked about board experiences. I'll share one with you. On my E5 board, I answered the very first question wrong and I knew it as soon as I finished giving the answer. Rather than panic though, I remained calm and went about answering the rest of the board member questions. When the board is wrapping up, they should ask you if you have any alibis. When they asked me that question, I looked at the first member and told her that I had answered her first question wrong, and then gave her the correct answer. As you have already seen below, confidence and poise will help you greatly during your boards. Remain calm, if you put in the work, you'll be fine.

     Great question, and kudos to you for using this forum to ask it!

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Nov 24 at 2013 8:19 PM

2013-11-24T20:19:36-05:00

Let us know how you do. Good Luck.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2013 6:46 PM

2013-11-25T18:46:14-05:00

*Sorry, made a spelling mistake*

I have been in the Army just over 2 years now, which in not very long by most. And I have been selected to go to our Battalion's Soldier of the Month board. I have never been to any board throughout my time in the Army. Any tips for a young soldier, like myself, that you think would be helpful in this next challenge I have been faced with. Any and all tips are welcomed & truly appreciated. I will read all tips and give you a thumbs up if it's helpful. Thanks in advance.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2013 7:35 PM

2013-11-25T19:35:29-05:00

Just an update on my Soldier of the Month board this morning.... unfortunately it was canceled but on the bright side I have a few more weeks to study and prepare myself. I will be going next month.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2013 8:33 PM

2013-11-25T20:33:25-05:00

SPC Sanchez,

PV2 Keffer (I think I spelled her name correctly) added a similar post just like yours earlier. You can reference it for a lot of tips, advice, recommendations, suggestions, etc to help you prepare for this challenge. Being in for 2 years is not long at all and it's a good thing that you're going to the board, it's time for you to get this experience under your belt to help the next Soldier after you who's a first timer. Until you're able to get to that post, here are some tips I'll give you:

>>>>BE CONFIDENT!!!!!! Your CoC and leadership will see how high your level of confidence is at a board, don't allow them the chance to see you waiver. More than likely, you'll know all the members of the board.

>>>>ENSURE YOUR MILITARY BEARING IS PRISTINE!!!!! You'll be scored on this while you're sitting in the board so make sure to pay attention to the person speaking to you and keep your eyes and attention focused on them.

>>>>DISCIPLINE!!!! Your military bearing is an extension of your discipline.

>>>>KNOW YOUR MATERIAL AND BE KNOWLEDGEABLE!!!!!! You will not retain everything but do your best to retain as much material before going to the board. Remember that it is okay not to know everything...your board members will understand that.

>>>>UNIFORM! UNIFORM! UNIFORM! Don't just check it once, check that bad boy about 20 times, have your battle buddies check it, have your 1st Line Supervisor check it and then ask them to have their 1st Line Supervisor check it to ensure everything is wear it's supposed to be.

*****Ensure everything on your uniform is on your ERB. They have to match.

>>>>BATTLE BUDDIES ARE EFFECTIVE!!! Utilize your battles, friends, coworkers, supervisors and anyone you need to to help you study. I'm not saying study 24/7 but devote a good amount of time each day up until your board to study.

Above all, relax and have fun. This is your first one (of many more to come) and the nerves will be there but you have to control them. Once they (and those stomach butterflies) subside I'm sure you'll go in there and do great.

LET US ALL KNOW HOW YOU FARE WHEN YOU COMPLETE YOUR FIRST BOARD.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2013 5:36 PM

2013-11-26T17:36:59-05:00

CSM hit it right on the spot. Just make sure you get the copy of the MOI for the board and study it but dont study to hard to where you over work yourself and forget it all. Study a little every day especially now that you have more time. Alot of it besides the actual board is hands on like finding a plot on a map or disassemble and reassemble a weapon and so on so just try to get with your chain of command and see if they can assist you especially if you arent doing anything. Never waste time just sitting around when you can always learn. Stay confident, keep your military bearing, know your Army values and know the Creeds as you to are AN AMERICAN SOLDIER. Goodluck!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2013 7:24 PM

2013-11-26T19:24:48-05:00

talk to PV2 Krisha Keffer oh here

Medic at HHT, 6-1 CAV | Military Profile | RallyPoint

See the full military profile of this Medic at HHT, 6-1 CAV, stationed at Fort Bliss, TX | RallyPoint professional military profile.

Response by SFC James Baber made Nov 26 at 2013 11:53 PM

2013-11-26T23:53:24-05:00

Well, that is maybe a blessing in disguise as it gives you more time to prepare and study, so take a breath and hit the books when you can and take the chance to research more on the topics and be prepared as they change the MOI for the next one, maybe not but be alert for a quick change just to keep you on your toes.

Take care and stay safe.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2013 2:40 PM

2013-12-07T14:40:58-05:00

I know it's after the fact, but in case someone else wanders into this thread in a similar situation, here's my two cents worth...

1. Confidence - many have said it, and it's the most important.
2. The Creed(s) - know them in your sleep and recite them with *CONFIDENCE*

now for the one I haven't seen on here,
3. Know where to FIND the answers - If you know a subject fairly well, but you are POSITIVE what reg to look up the answers, then if they throw you a curve ball (or you just draw a blank in the board) you can say WITH CONFIDENCE "Sergeant Major, I can't remember the answer right now, but you can find it in AR 600-8!" (it may feel like a cop out, but it'll get you further than trying to make something up)

4. stay CONFIDENT!!!

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Dec 7 at 2013 4:38 PM

2013-12-07T16:38:12-05:00

When they ask you "why should you be the soldier of the month?"

Response: "Oh this isn't soldier of the Year?"

Win

Response by SSgt Rick Glime made Dec 13 at 2013 3:57 PM

2013-12-13T15:57:09-05:00

First of all, it's an honor to be selected, so be proud and be confident! Most of the boards are going to ask questions that are basic soldiering skills, just refresh yourself from your basic training SMART book or whatever they call it these days! Make sure your uniform is freshly pressed and looking good.

Best of Luck!

Rick Glime

24th Infantry Division Support Command soldier of the Year, 1986

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2014 1:06 PM

2014-01-17T13:06:51-05:00

I am working on preparing one of my soldiers for the upcoming SOM Board, I started to help him prepare for the questions by writing out questions from the study guide on note cards - so he will retain the material he writes down, but also the cards will be used by other soldiers to prepare him with the challenge of helping others to prepare for future boards.

Knowing the material is very important however your military bearing while you address the board shows your respect and attention to detail.

Mock Boards are helpful - Prepare for the entire board experience - entering the room, your salute, holding your salute, addressing the board properly, speaking to the entire board while giving your bio, and speaking to the individual board members while answering questions.

I would love to tell you to relax, but I have never relaxed until I get finished with a board, be diligent, confident, use this time to be the soldier that you know is the best soldier going to the board.

When it is over win or lose take something from the experience and use it to improve yourself as a member of honored military.

You will do great.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2014 4:12 PM

2014-01-17T16:12:54-05:00

SGT Cunningham gave some good points.
I will tell you that the members of the board are not hoping or betting that you will do poorly. They are usually silently rooting for you to show them your best. Leave your fear at the door. Nerves are to be expected, but just do what you have been practicing. Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2014 8:02 PM

2014-01-17T20:02:24-05:00

SPC Sanchez, Military boards are a great tradition and an outstanding way of gauging your knowledge. I applaud your dedication to bettering yourself. Since I assume this is your first board I will add as much information as I can.

1. Complete your board packet ahead of time. Your S-1 should have a list of all items that the board members will be looking for. Compile these items in a binder/folder (1 for each member of the board). Have an NCO you trust (your sponsor hopefully) look over the packet.

2. Review the MOI for the upcoming board. This document will list the subjects that will be covered as well as any special instructions.

3. In your bio ensure that you cover any previous units, military training, family and goals for the future.

4. Ensure you have a couple sets of eyes on your uniform before entering the board.

5. Creeds- If you already have the soldiers creed memorized begin working on the creed of the Noncommissioned Officer. Creeds should be said slow and with inflection. You want to show the board members that you believe in what you are saying.

6. Review Current events leading up to your board, as well as you unit history (to include your patch and crest symbolism).

7. After your creed you will be marched to where all board members may inspect your uniform. Work on your drill and ceremony. Ensure all movements are crisp.

8. Do NOT rely on study guides for board questions. Dig into the publications. With the Army transferring to Doctrine 2015 many study guides are not up to date. They can be good tools to get an idea of possible questions but learn the regs, this will help you alot more in the long run.

9. While you are waiting to go in to the board do not cram, use that time to unwind.

10. Be confident and think about each question and you will do great.

My recommendation is to start with First Aid, Land Nav, ADP/ADRP 1 and drill and ceremony.

Good luck.

Response by CSM Stuart C. O'Black made Jan 31 at 2014 9:54 PM

2014-01-31T21:54:45-05:00

Sorry. I have not paid attention to this post in awhile so forgive me if I missed the final post. How did it go? What did you learn? What would you do differently and finally what can I pass on to junior Soldiers about your experience?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 1 at 2014 6:49 PM

2014-02-01T18:49:18-05:00

Know your Soldier's Creed and have it down cold. Study the subjects on the MOI, and don't forget to read the paper that morning! People always get tripped up on the current events.

If you haven't been to Armystudyguide.com yet, you need to.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 7:26 PM

2014-02-03T19:26:33-05:00

Knock Loudly, Speak Loudly but controlled!

Know the members of the board so that when you are a little nervous their faces and rank are muscle memory.

Have your ASUs squared away check, check, and triple check then have your sponsor do the same and then his superior also. DS just off the trail are superb at this if you have one in your section! If you go in with a jacked up uniform you may not even make it to the questions.

Know your bio( the board members should have a typed copy), it speaks very ill of you if you cant even recall your own life and career!

Short and Long term goals are EARNED not got or given. Pay grades are not Ranks. Schools are completed not attended. (This is great to always remember even in your everyday life)

--"My short term goals are to EARN (not get) a promotion to SPC." (not E4)

"I would also like to complete(not attend) Ranger School so that I may increase my knowledge of small unit tactics in order to better mentor and lead my team."

"My long term goal is to EARN (not get) a Bachelors degree in Sports Management."

Current events should be military related and MOS related if possible. Post newspapers are a great source for local military news. OpenSource.gov is a great source for non local news also. Make sure the source is legit! I like to site the source also, just shows that you didn't Google it an hour ago.

--" CSM, The Fort Campbell Post recently reported that the 5th SFG(A) CSM will be introducing 5 new Starships to our fleet on March 5th, in order to increase our ability to deploy to Mars in 2015." "This will support our current mission of defeating the Taliban on Mars and will also be an opportunity for more soldiers to experience space flight."

Read the actual FMs and ARs dont rely on Armystudyguide.com!

One small thing that most soldiers forget is the way to answer a question by restating the question. Not only does it give you an extra moment to think of the answer it is 500 times more professional and shows more poise than just blurting out the answer.

--"PFC Keffer what FM covers Drill and Ceremony?"

"1SG, the FM that covers Drill and Ceremony is FM 3-21.5"

sounds much better than "FM 3-21.5, 1SG"

Also if you are 100% sure you dont know the answer dont take 5 minutes to think just to say I do not know the answer to the question. Be confident even if you're confident that you dont know, its still confidence and shows you are aware of your limits.

Don't say I do not know the answer AT THIS TIME. At this time means 3 seconds later a board member who is trying to rattle you will ask the same question, do you know it at this time? (personal experience lol) It just gives them an opportunity to mess with you and see if you get flustered.

Wild guessing can lead to embarrassment if the NCOs think you are guessing they will ask you to elaborate and that can turn into a long sad road of questions you dont know the answer too exposing your BS. Educated guesses are ok though, if you think the AR starts with 600- and you guess 600-25 say it even if it happens to be 600-26 they will no when you are BSing and when you are not. They can tell if you studied that area and if you didnt.

Misses can be almost hits or dead wrong. If the question is a four answer question and you only know 3 dont make a wild guess on the fourth simply state i do not remember the fourth level of maintenance. 3 out of four is better than one wild guess making them forget you got 3 right.

Don't be afraid to alibi. When asked at the end if you have any alibis if you know you missed something and you can correct it do. It shows your resilience and you ability to recall information/adjust fire in a semi nerve racking environment. Most soldiers want to get it over with and just say no alibis. It speaks well of you if you can correct a mistake. If you cant no big deal though. Just dont say no to get the board over with then regret it later.

Be resilient and confident. You are most likely going to miss a few questions, bounce back and remain confident dont dwell on misses, drive on.

If ever asked how you think you did, be confident but honest.

--"CSM I feel that I did well, but there is always room for improvement. My goal is to always continue to increase my knowledge."

Find an SME in each subject if possible. Studying first aid with a Senior NCO medic can open the opportunity for you to learn not only the answers but why they are important. I learn better if I can equate the answers to actual events. (make sure they are following the FM or AR dont go off of their "top of the head" answers even though they are SMEs they could still be wrong)

My "secret" tool for winning so many boards. Audio study guide/review, not only am i learning I can workout, ride a bike or run while doing it (not on the road of course, safety first), so I'm getting in shape for the events and studying for the actually board. Recording yourself asking questions and saying answers is also a way to get used to your delivery and practice your diction.

Most importantly be prepared to go to the board EVERY tomorrow! Meaning, dont start studying just because you have a board, take 10 minutes out of your day everyday to study. Get an MOI every month even if you aren't going to the board and study the subjects.

Knowledge becomes proficiency, proficiency becomes promotion, promotion becomes more responsibility, more responsibility becomes the ability to mentor, train and affect change on a larger scale.

I am available here if you have any more questions or concerns.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Apr 29 at 2014 5:07 PM

2014-04-29T17:07:55-04:00

DO NOT under any circumstances, tell the board you don't know the answer to the question, but could "Google it".

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 23 at 2014 3:44 PM

2014-05-23T15:44:57-04:00

Great Job PFC,

First, know your information. Study as much as possilbe. They should have study material, get it and take the time to learn it...know it all inside and out.

With that being said, when you don't know something, admit it. "1SG/CSM I do not know the answer to that question, but I will get that answer for you." Then get them the answer. Make sure you are squared away before, during and after.It always amazed me how someone could do well during the board and then full apart as soon as they step out of the room, fall apart and look like a soup sandwich when the members take a break? The members are supposed to ignore what you are doing or how you look on the other side of a door? Have your team leader make sure your uniform is right. As a female soldier, check your skirt length? Wear your dog tags…especially if you don’t normally…which you should be doing but make sure you do for the board. Be yourself…only more confident, knowledgeable and professional. Last, remember the board members were in your chair, not so long ago, sweating like a fly under magnifying glass themselves and the only difference is that they are staring at the end of their career instead of looking forward at what could be. Use this great opportunity to grow as a soldier and as a person.
Now reread the CSM's post, it is not long, it is spot on.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2015 12:44 AM

2015-04-24T00:44:58-04:00

Be confident in all of your answers

Response by SGT Richard H. made May 30 at 2015 11:41 AM

2015-05-30T11:41:20-04:00

Few basics:
First, study your tail off. Know you MOS and know the Army. If you don't recall an answer, tell them you don't recall, but you'll find out and get back to them, then do it. Don't try to BS them. They know the answers to the questions they are asking.

Second, look sharp. Don't have a good uniform, have a perfect one. Your NCOs will help you. Meet or exceed 670-1 in every way.

Third, use your NCOs for help. They are there to help you, and you are a reflection of them.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Sep 5 at 2016 8:04 PM

2016-09-05T20:04:59-04:00

Stay cool, keep your wits about you. Take that extra second or two to think about the answer. AND MOST IMPORTANT: if you don't know the answer, look the president of the board direct in the eye and say: (properly addressing), I don't know the answer, but will look it up and get back to you.
How you react to questions you can't answer is as important as knowing the correct answer.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Apr 3 at 2021 8:52 AM

2021-04-03T08:52:30-04:00

Good luck to you, your obviously qualified to get this far and be nominated. Relax and maintain your bearing they’re not trying to trip you up, and don’t be afraid to be yourself.