Do you support the "Good Ole' Boy" system?

2015-02-22T00:07:55-05:00

I dont think there needs to be anymore details about this topis. I just see it happening more and more everyday at my job and in the Army as a whole. What do yall think about this? Me, I think it is the most unprofesional thing I have ever seen. I feel like the Army is not promoting the total army concept and evaluating for performance, but on how well you get in with someone. How do you feel?

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Feb 22 at 2015 12:23 AM

2015-02-22T00:23:03-05:00

I understand how you feel and I agree promoting SHOULD be based on merit. That being said, the "good ole boy" system has been relabeled to "networking". Networking is a part of doing business any organization. Particularly, it is become almost essential at senior leadership levels.
Reality is there a few slots, and they tend go people you built confidence and rapport with from previous experience. Perception is not always reality.
From outside, it may look like you were put in position because you're friends with the boss. Reality may be you spent four years as a subordinate elsewhere and the boss knows your capabilities.

Response by SFC William Manchester made Feb 22 at 2015 1:08 AM

2015-02-22T01:08:00-05:00

I agree that a “good ol’ boy” system is not conducive to an all-encompasing force. There may be exceptional performers who come from different units or walks of life and aren’t members of this unofficial network. I am a firm believer that one’s actions should dictate their career.

However, while not explicitly tied to promotion, we should also look at the Army’s seventh warfighting function (WFF); engagement. While this WFF is typically oriented towards security force assistance-type missions, I think the core component rings true across the force. If you are unable to demonstrate your value to senior and/or lateral commanders, you will rarely have the opportunity to succeed. It is within the realm of engagement where you effectively “sell” yourself to those who would determine your leadership potential.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2015 1:25 AM

2015-02-22T01:25:42-05:00

I believe it is extremely damaging to our force. Here's a good example: We had a squad leader in the Company I deployed with who was relieved for utterly failing to do his job. To give you some idea, one of his gun trucks rolled into Iraq without any crew-served ammunition because he failed to do a PCI. Another time they left without a weapons mount for the crew-served. His PSG, who he was buddies with, gave him a glowing NCOER for the deployment. He made the E7 list shortly after we got home and was promoted. Because of the "good ole boy" system that Company now has a PSG who couldn't hack it as an E6 in combat. Hopefully he will retire before they deploy again.

We need the best people possible for the position, bottom line. Our Soldiers lives are too precious for this not to happen.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2015 2:31 AM

2015-02-22T02:31:51-05:00

I have been subject to this more than once because I do not always go along with the group.

I believe in doing things the right way not the masses way.

Unfortunately it is a part of the way many things work in the Military and Civilian life.

I just stay positive and do not allow groups like that break my spirit. That is something they do not always understand as they need the support of many to make themselves feel better and stronger.

Not allowing someone to break your spirit is the best avenue with the situation.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2015 3:24 AM

2015-02-22T03:24:05-05:00

I have stood on both sides of this fence, and I see the grass is just as green on either.

I used to believe that doing my job, and doing it well was all that mattered. After working sometime in the civilian aector, where personality goes a looooong way, I see that there are lessons to be learned.

1) People like working with people they like.
2) People respect those who demonstrate proficiency.
3) Most high level professionals, both military and civilian, are likeable.
4) When people are comfortable with who they work with, the environment is more efficient, effective, and inviting; but most of all, professional.

When people get promoted strictly off of who likes who, it is a travesty. But when people believe that how well they do their job is all that matters, they are already losing half the battle.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2015 3:59 PM

2015-02-22T15:59:14-05:00

To be honest I think I have a bigger issue with the term "good ole' boy system" then I do with the ramifications of it. The reason I say this is because I feel like this is one of those terms that tends to get thrown around a lot by people are less than desirable Soldiers or leaders. I by no means I have an opinion of the OP. Just something that I noticed. It is like the term toxic leader. I have heard that term said by more Soldiers that were just unhappy with the decision that the leaders above them made. Are there probably Soldiers out there who got promoted or an assignment just based on being pals with someone? Sure. I feel more often than not just like some others have stated; it is because an individual has already been assessed as the best option. I have worked with Soldiers and leaders that if I was given the chance to build my ideal team I would call them and say come work for me. Because i know what they have to offer and can get straight to work without having to evaluate their work.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 8:17 AM

2015-04-06T08:17:09-04:00

More and more do you see the Good Ole' Boy system damaging the troops. Promotions, special treatment, awards, etc. is not based on merit but on who you know and if you rub the right elbows.

It is a shame.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2015 7:37 PM

2015-04-06T19:37:32-04:00

I think you make an excellent point, SGT Private RallyPoint Member. I've been working in or for the Army for a few months short of 40 years, and the good ol' boy system is a problem. And it's the worst in military intelligence in my humble opinion. But having worked in this field for the past 36 years, I found a way to make it work even though I don't think I ever actually joined the good ol' boy club.