How do some units feel about CPLs? Is there any advice for possibly stepping into this new role?

SGT (Join to see), if your 1SG is taking about it, you’ll probably be wearing CPL stripes soon. Be the leader your soldiers deserve, the kind you want to follow. I thought being a CPL sucked, I figured if I’m doing an E-5’s job the Army should pay me for it. They did in short order. Always earn the respect of your subordinates and they will make you look good.

I like to think that I’ve stepped outside of the Specialist side and more into the leadership role. My unit acts for my input during those “decision moments” for the daily tasks.

First you have to be an NCO and not permit your SPC think they are equal although you are the same pay grade. Go to the primary leadership course if you haven't yet. I will assume you already have because airborne units require it. Ranger units require a Ranger Tab before making a SPC a coporal. Assoiate with strictly NCOs you know and respect. They will mentor you to be a sergeant. Thje role of cpoporal is tough if you do not separate your self form you former fellow soldier. You are now a leader; lead!

Well I would have to say keep on doing what you are doing. See if there is a FM to your postion or positions in your field. I'm in Transportation ours is FM 55-30. I'm a PFC in multiple roles,HET driver, acting dispatcher, Readiness NCO admin assistant. So what I'm saying always make yourself available, and be a leader who looks out for the people and their welfare. If you do the right thing people will follow you cause they want to do the right thing too.

You're a private when they want you to be and a nco when they want

Act like a leader and not a SPC. Sounds like you're already doing the right things, taking charge, teaching the new guys, etc. Just keep doing that. CPL can be a mixed bag. Remember, its your position that gives authority, not your rank. If they make you a team leader or section chief, take that responsibility seriously. Separate yourself from the herd. The E4 and below that stay that way until they ETS stay that way for a reason, their behavior. If you want to be more, you have to act like it.

Let's not talk about the NCO's that slid through the cracks, etc...

I recommend taking it. It means your on the fast track, but they don't have the authorization from headquarters to for E-5.

Becoming a corporal can be a great thing, it’s a great way to be tested at becoming an NCO. My unit pretty much uses it to fill the gap of passing the board and getting to BLC, which is stupid hard in my unit. I’ve been promotable for over a year, so it’s a blessing and a curse. You kind of have to a bulldog at first, not quite power trip, but show you mean business. It gets tiring though.

First of all if they are considering you to pin you as CPL, it's a great feeling to step up as Junior NCO but you are not, you will get the same pay, more work loads because you will have to lead E-1 to E-4, and you have to write them up when they screw up. If you want to gain experience in leading soldiers, please accept the lead but if you value your time, freedom and be an E-4 without leading, don't accept it. I am E-4 and I know I am talking about, there was a time I was called CPL but the job was not pleasant, they did ask too much of me. I left the unit because I was ETS-ing out the military. My eight years was over and I did not want to re-enlist because there was too much going on in that unit. So best of Luck of being CPL.

Remember, the troops don’t work for you, you work for them. That being said, don’t take any shit from them either.