How must a Battery Commander maintain positive influence and engagement with the formation?

Are you asking because you’re currently a Battery Commmader or aspiring? Regardless of unit, Troop, Battery, or Company the Commander must be the driving force for the unit. I think a commander must first gain the trust of his/her NCOs, let them know that you’re there to support them and allow them the space and time to accompany the mission. Work your way down the ladder, get to know your 1SG, then your PSG (who you will Senior Rate). Then during training or daily OPS, walk around the squad bays and work locations with in your unit. Try not to be a distraction, but do look for opportunities to engage your Soldiers on a personal and professional level. Be that mentor, show them that you appreciate thier hard work and recognize that thier success is your units success. Lastly, be genuine. Mean what you say and mean what you say. Don’t be passive aggressive, don’t take things personally, not everyone will like you. After all, you’re the Boss and can’t make everyone happy. Good luck.

Personality and being yourself is important from what I’ve experienced. Obviously you care enough to seek mentorship from the millions of SMs on this site so don’t be afraid to let that genuine care show. It’s the hardest to fake and easiest for Soldiers to call BS on. Also, don’t make promises or rhetoric and then not follow through. That’s a sure fire way of losing your formation.

One he needs to address the formation (literally) daily. Throughout the day he needs to speak with Soldiers throughout his AIR and engage with them ona fundamental level. Ask about their families, hobbies as well as things going on in he unit. Engagement is key.