I am about to become an APG in AIT, which is a small leadship role. What does it take to become a good leader?

2018-03-11T21:57:12-04:00

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Mar 11 at 2018 10:03 PM

2018-03-11T22:03:57-04:00

Wake up each morning and do the best that you can possibly do. Take care of your Soldiers and love them as your own brothers and sisters. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you don't know the answer. No leader has all the answers. Stay humble and don't let authority get to your head. Set the example at all times. Set the standards and enforce the rules and regs; don't pick and choose which ones you think are important in your own mind. Hold yourself to a higher bar than those on your team. Best wishes to you in your journey!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2018 10:19 PM

2018-03-11T22:19:22-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member A good leader will make mistakes. Learn from these mistakes, so you do not make the same mistake twice. Excellent advice from CPT Aaron Kletzing and MSG Dan Walther.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2018 10:27 PM

2018-03-11T22:27:51-04:00

Do what you expect out of your leadership. Take all the good and re implement that, throwing the bad techniques in the trash. You can develop your own style of leadership after years and years of learning how not every person learns the same way. One soldiers if you chew his/her ass may learn and the next soldier may need a face to face combined counseling. Me? well I just needed a good smoking back in the day.

Do to your soldiers as you wish to be done to yourself. Be with them, fight for them, get the job done together.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Mar 11 at 2018 10:28 PM

2018-03-11T22:28:53-04:00

Being a leader isn't about you, it's about your soldiers. Be an example, be accountable, be the best soldier you can be.

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Mar 11 at 2018 11:06 PM

2018-03-11T23:06:56-04:00

your squad is as good as your weakest link. Use team work of the squad to help that weaker link to succeed where the whole accomplishes the goal

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2018 11:23 PM

2018-03-11T23:23:42-04:00

Know your people. Leadership = relationships.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 11 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-03-11T23:31:41-04:00

"Good observation of a good leader." Watch, learn, and when you get the job, put it into practice.

Response by SPC Brent Melton made Mar 11 at 2018 11:33 PM

2018-03-11T23:33:41-04:00

Think about your decisions before your blurt something out. Also be willing to communicate clearly and listen to those under your. Keep those things in mind and you'll do fine.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Mar 11 at 2018 11:45 PM

2018-03-11T23:45:00-04:00

Take care of your troops, the rest will work itself out. Also, praise in public, reprimand in private.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 11 at 2018 11:50 PM

2018-03-11T23:50:12-04:00

Google army leadership, the acronym.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Mar 11 at 2018 11:54 PM

2018-03-11T23:54:57-04:00

- lead by example. Be squared away with the standard, know the standard correctly and completely.
- be where you are supposed to be, 10 minutes prior, in the right uniform, with what ever gear you are supposed to have. Ensure everyone gets the word on this...failure to be uniform will generate pain.
- have a pen and a small notebook. Write stuff down. Someone else likely missed it.
- help others be squared away. Either they are struggling with time, tasks, or standards.
- put others before yourself.
- watch out for those in your charge. At least one will get dear johnned and at least one will lose a loved one along the way.
- don't leave anyone behind. Pick people up that are struggling.
- when in charge, take charge. Take accountability of those in your charge, appoint leaders not in place. Prepare them to move To the next task as soon as the current one is complete. Always continue the mission.
- when not in charge, follow. Back up your leaders. Do your job.
- if someone is at risk: personal, professional, emotional, physical....you need to elevate that through the chain of command.
- give it 110%

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 12:19 AM

2018-03-12T00:19:15-04:00

-ask questions, all the good leaders do. If you don't ask questions, you probably don't have a total grasp of the SIT.

- don't be afraid to ask for collective input, but be prepared to act on the information given

- Take time, when possible, to have a chat with a troop that had a bad day. Nothing brings a person back to earth more than a 1 minute chat and a pat on the back... " bro, tomorrow is another day, another opportunity to have a crack at it"

- when you give an order, be it yours, or something coming down the pipe, do not tolerate questioning of the order, but be prepared to explain the mission concept to a T. Good leaders provide guidance and direction.

- and lastly, learn to delegate. There is a fine line between passing the ball, and personnel management. This will apply more so when you become a mid career-senior NCO, but it's a good idea to learn now how to delegate. Alot of NCO's the themselves up doing work Jr. Guys can manage, simply because they are used to " getting shit done"

Good luck and always keep a chip on your shoulder. Having a pair of balls(ovaries) is still a respected quality in most circles

- Danny

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 12:44 AM

2018-03-12T00:44:35-04:00

Cartwright don't be a blue falcon!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 2:10 AM

2018-03-12T02:10:47-04:00

Honestly, just giving a shit. Your people will know whether or not you care, whether or not you put the time in to be an expert in your field, whether or not you're just in it for the paycheck. They're not dumb. Even if you struggle with the job, if you care and try your hardest those people will pick you up, help carry your burden, and you'll succeed as a team despite your personal shortfalls. Leadership is easy - just give a shit about what you're doing.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Mar 12 at 2018 5:31 AM

2018-03-12T05:31:02-04:00

Study all available manuals, treat your troops with respect, and be honest with them. Relay any orders that need to be carried to your squad leaders.

Response by CPT Griff Tatum made Mar 12 at 2018 7:55 AM

2018-03-12T07:55:56-04:00

Check out John C. Maxwell's "5 Levels of Leadership." It talks a lot about developing trust with subordinate members of any organization at different levels, on an individual basis. My second or third commander gave me and the rest of the platoon leaders a hard copy of the book and I try to crack it open every once in a while. It changed what I thought about leadership completely. Probably more than what the Army has taught me in ADP 6-22. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPwXeg8ThWI

Response by PO1 Don Gulizia made Mar 12 at 2018 9:19 AM

2018-03-12T09:19:56-04:00

Always set the example. You can't expect more from others than you do yourself. Also, when dealing with subordinates, you need to be firm, fair, and consistant. Good luck.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 9:41 AM

2018-03-12T09:41:10-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member, leadership, at its core, is about people. Be a people person. Understand what makes people tick, what drives them, their fears, wants, desires. Leadership is a lot of things. Its drive; its influencing others to make decisions for themselves - for an outcome to a task that is mutually shared. Even as a private, you are a leader. You wear the uniform. Live the Army Values. You made a committment and choice to live to a higher calling and a higher standard than the rest of society. Be the best you can be. With that, comes a great deal of sacrifice, but a great deal of honor too. Not many people know what that tastes like in today's world. Leadership is setting the example. Be the best private, and other privates will look to you for guidance.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 9:46 AM

2018-03-12T09:46:29-04:00

PV2 Cartwright- being a leader is a process. A continuous process of leading, obtaining feedback of what worked, re-assessing. First off, get your green book out and copy down the key words mentioned in all these posts. Then when time allows ask yourself what type of leader you want to be. Anyone can bark out an order. Anyone can force through rank or fear to perform. But a true leader inspires. A leader provides purpose, motivation, and direction. Knowledge of your doctrine and technical manuals is a large part of the equation. Knowing your people though is paramount. Best of luck in your new position and understand that ever role requires a leader. It is when that leader is called upon to act.
Train the Force !

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2018 10:55 AM

2018-03-12T10:55:07-04:00

Leadership does not have a one way works for all answer. I would read Lincoln on Leadership and then think about Every good and Every Bad leader you have seen. Write down what those people did right and wrong then build your Leadership style.

Some have already posted some good advice id review and use it. Here is some of my own.

1: Get to know your people but don't be their friend. you are not there to do social media, gamming, drinking, or partying with them. you are there to lead, mentor and train them.
2: If you make a Mistake OWN it. This teaches by example, your people will come to respect you for the honesty.
3: Don't be stuck on doing things one way. Every plan I come up with when I put it out at quarters I ask "anyone see any flaws, does anyone have a better way of doing this". We review the answers and then execute accordingly. This empowers your people to speak up and builds their leadership.
4: Build don't tear down. In the case of number 3 if someone has a really dumb response I don't destroy them or tear them down. I tell why its dumb with out telling them its dumb lol.
5: Praise in Public, Chastise in Private.. Always.
6: Set realistic goals for you and them and stick to them.
7: When you end up in a shitty situation like a 4 hour cleaning stations, and they all are complaining be honest. "yes this sucks but its what WE have been assigned so lets get to work and get it done" Then lead by example. be right there with them for it. Lead by Example always.

My last bit for here is seek out other leaders in your AOR and a Mentor to help you as you transition to a leadership roll. Good Luck in your new position.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Mar 12 at 2018 3:37 PM

2018-03-12T15:37:52-04:00

- Know the mission- who, what, when, where, how, why
- Keep the unit as informed as possible about further tasks.
- Be fair on dispensing tasks
- Know the priorities of work.
- Be accountable for the soldiers
- Say thank you

What does APG stand for? Assistant Platoon Guide?

Response by Sgt Robert Poynter made Mar 12 at 2018 4:49 PM

2018-03-12T16:49:24-04:00

Listening skills. Learn to listen, observe, don't go in there with the attitude that your all that. Learn good communication skills. Treat your guys with the same respect you wish them to give you.Never ridicule anyone especially in front of the others. Build a team. Learn to utilize the people around you. Think about how you should respond if ever questioned, Don't get flustered, or angered, think and answer accordingly, but chose your words wisely. Be wise as a serpent, and gentle as a dove...

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Mar 13 at 2018 3:14 AM

2018-03-13T03:14:03-04:00

If you are tall and good looking - you are half way there.

Response by SFC Johnathan Severs made Mar 13 at 2018 5:06 PM

2018-03-13T17:06:05-04:00

Inspect what you expect. Simple as that.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2018 5:54 PM

2018-03-14T17:54:50-04:00

I just graduated ait so my 2 cents is like some have said prior be squared away lead by example and don’t let the position get to your head and become tyrannical because as quick they gave you that position it’s as easy as ripping that patch right off your shoulder I’ve seen it done plenty of times but also be early and when your putting out info sound offf for the love of god but you will be fine it’s not rocket science

Response by Cadet CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 14 at 2018 8:36 PM

2018-03-14T20:36:01-04:00

Good grammar

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2018 5:47 AM

2018-03-18T05:47:37-04:00

Be around and give information rather then defer people in your platoon

Response by SGT Franklin Smith made Mar 19 at 2018 2:28 PM

2018-03-19T14:28:57-04:00

Just make sure you are squared away. 1st lead by example. Make sure Squad Leaders are squared away. You hold the Squad leaders accountable of their soldiers chain of command. I know its AIT but once you hit the your duty station you will see its the same way. Your Drill Sgt is like the 1SG PG is like the Platoon Sgt and so on. You need to be the grown up. Not to argue and like MSG Dan Walther said, choose your words.

Response by SSG Steven Lemon made Mar 20 at 2018 9:27 AM

2018-03-20T09:27:57-04:00

I was told that you become a leader first and then you are appointed. One thing I learned from those who trained me and which I applied in my years as a team leader was to take care of the mission, the men and myself in that order.
You are the first to arrive and the last to leave
You try to be the best dressed, most professional member of your unit
You try to train your men to be ready to replace you
You don't eat, sleep or drink until your men have been taken care of
Your troops will have your back if they are convinced you have theirs
IF YOU MUST PLAY FAVORITES, MAKE SURE EACH MAN THINKS IT IS HIM OR THAT THERE IS NONE

Response by PV2 Paula Alber made Mar 21 at 2018 4:09 AM

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A good leader puts the unit first. Accepts the responsibility for the failures, as well as, the achievements and uses both as lessons and motivation not only for themselves but their units as well. Take the time to make sure your knowledgeable and proficient in your field. Never expect someone to do something that you yourself are unwilling to do.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2018 10:59 AM

2018-03-23T10:59:15-04:00

To be a good leader you must be a good follower listen to your higher ups instructions and have a willingness to teach others the knowledge you receive.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Mar 30 at 2018 2:55 PM

2018-03-30T14:55:37-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Congratulations! I believe MSG Dan Walther CPT Aaron Kletzing pretty much summed it up for good Leadership. Good luck to you.

Response by SGT Dan Keeler made Apr 6 at 2018 10:55 AM

2018-04-06T10:55:41-04:00

Support your troops, but remember; Mission First. When you are passing on instructions, don't ever suggest that you are not in agreement with the orders. That undermines your superiors, diminishes your standing, and can jeopardize your mission.

Response by SPC Donald Pierce made Apr 7 at 2018 6:34 PM

2018-04-07T18:34:00-04:00

PREACH TEAMWORK, AND SHOW YOUR MEN RESPECT, AND THEY WILL RESPECT YOU IN RETURN.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2018 6:29 AM

2018-04-13T06:29:09-04:00

Taking ideas from who your leading, also make sure to have good communication with your squad leaders. Good luck

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2018 12:07 PM

2018-04-15T12:07:45-04:00

Dont be a shitbag and dont play favorites lol

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2018 11:10 AM

2018-04-18T11:10:06-04:00

Idk about your AIT but PG and APG was a joke when I was in AIT. Just do what you can.

Response by Robert Collet made Apr 22 at 2018 5:36 PM

2018-04-22T17:36:23-04:00

Strive to be the person you would want to follow....

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Apr 23 at 2018 7:33 PM

2018-04-23T19:33:03-04:00

In any leadership role be attentive to those subordinate to you ... and.be willing to listen to criticism, even that you don’t Like . You don’t have to like it.. but it may help you be a better person.. have a session with your squad.. find out more about them. .. talk to your Platoon leader.. they can help you ..

Response by CPT Don Kemp made May 13 at 2018 9:44 PM

2018-05-13T21:44:42-04:00

Good advice from many comments already. Ask your PG what you can do to help them. Ask your Drill Sergeant for advice. You really only have two roles: 1) Protect & watch out for your troops. 2) Make your senior leadership look good.

Response by PO1 Melvin Cloud made May 16 at 2018 4:31 PM

2018-05-16T16:31:35-04:00

As an AGO remember most of the people you are called on to learn have iron deposition and respect. Don't go in and act as though you have more knowledge than they do. Give them a chance to show you what they can do and how they can bring you into the service. There are a lot of lessons that can't be put into books. Always take responsibility for your actions and you people. Remember get them to respect the person not just the uniform.

Response by CPL Laron Buggs made May 17 at 2018 12:53 AM

2018-05-17T00:53:44-04:00

Make sure you are squared away first, then your fellow soldiers. That way you lead by example. A good leader always adapt to their situation. So, make sure to learn everybody name under you it's more personal and you'll get more out of them.
Lastly make sure you respect yourself first then your fellow soldiers.

Response by SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott made May 19 at 2018 2:21 PM

2018-05-19T14:21:31-04:00

LTC Jason MacKay said it all and said it right!!

Response by MSG Scott Berndt made Jun 17 at 2018 8:23 PM

2018-06-17T20:23:52-04:00

Never forget that respect goes both ways. Give it to your Soldiers and demand it in return.

Response by SPC Nicholas Bettinger made Jun 25 at 2018 1:23 AM

2018-06-25T01:23:21-04:00

When did they start giving out phones in Ait?

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2018 1:30 PM

2018-06-25T13:30:48-04:00

I was a PG in AIT and just graduated recently. The most important advice I can give is don't complain. Your Drill Sergeant/PSG will call you down to the company building to make sure everyone you are in charge of has everything they need done accomplished. If they are red on Medpros make sure you're tracking their appointments. If they need to DX their uniforms get the names so your drill sergeant can do the paperwork. Promotions, POR, projections, appointments, orders, etc. Also uphold the standard. Never be FTR to a formation regardless of if you have people who are ftr consistantly. Keep yourself squared away and have a valid reason for everything you do. Most importantly is that you are only there for accountability purposes everything else is added on to your job. Make sure you know where everyone is at, but dont let your position go to your head. Stay humble and don't demand anything of them unless it came straight from the DSs mouth. Some people just wont want to listen no matter what you do so dont get bent out of shape about it and let the NCOs straighten it out. Just move on to the next person that needs help or bothers showing up. Dont ask them to do anything you wouldn't do. Since rank isnt a factor for PG/APGs you'll get the most respect from your people through friendship. You wont be friends with everyone, but treat everyone fairly and if the majority likes you they will respect you and force the minority who dont listen to fall in line when you give an order in formation or call everyone together to knock out some paperwork. Peer pressure is a hell of a job. Do what you need to do and watch as you progress how the NCOs/cadre will be more willing to take care of your needs after you spent however many weeks/months taking care of stuff for them. They will downplay how much they like you, but when you need a favor like a day pass for your family visiting, or orders to leave, or just pushing paperwork through they will pull strings for you or make you a priority. It's actually very quid pro quo, but dont count on any of it. Do what your supposed to because it's your responsibility. Any perks are just a nice bonus. Good luck and enjoy the ride.

Response by SGT Kristin Myers made Jul 3 at 2018 11:22 PM

2018-07-03T23:22:56-04:00

Lead from the front. By example. Do what is right, even if no one is looking. Do not expect someone to do a directive you have given, unless you have done it before or are going to be along side them. Stay positive. Even when the suck is bigger than life.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2018 4:55 PM

2018-09-15T16:55:17-04:00

Dont let it get to your head TRADOC accomplishments mean nothing to a FORCOM unit

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 19 at 2020 12:27 PM

2020-02-19T12:27:18-05:00

Beware of the E-4 mafia - already said to much.