I'm coming on active duty shortly. Any advice for starting my first assignment as a 2d Lt?

2015-08-29T23:52:59-04:00

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Aug 29 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-08-29T23:56:50-04:00

Get to know your NCOIC and work closely with him; your education will begin there.

Response by TSgt Robert Mahaffy made Aug 29 at 2015 11:59 PM

2015-08-29T23:59:20-04:00

Mouth shut, ears open, and find a Chief to follow around for the first year or so. Good luck!

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Aug 30 at 2015 12:01 AM

2015-08-30T00:01:19-04:00

Understand that relationships matter, develop a very candid relationship with your NCOs and make sure they know to pull you to the side quickly when you start to stray towards trouble. Be honest with your platoon. You do not have to be an arrogant prick - everyone there already knows you are the highest paid person in the platoon. And finally, communicate - do not allow early frustration to shut you down, we do not have mind readers in the services so you have communicate what you'd like to have accomplished.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 30 at 2015 12:07 AM

2015-08-30T00:07:32-04:00

SNCO's job is to mentor you. Heed their advise wisely, but don't let them make the final call. You are the Officer.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 12:13 AM

2015-08-30T00:13:19-04:00

What AFSC are you?

Get a mentor early to show you the ropes. Depending on AFSC, you may find that you will be in an organization heavy with contractors and DAF CiVs. If you are with any aircrew in your new assignment expect to make popcorn and stock the snack bar.

Working with civilians will be a new thing that hey don't teach in ROTC. Big thing is to try to learn your job well and the mission that you will support.

Response by MAJ Bryan Zeski made Aug 30 at 2015 12:29 AM

2015-08-30T00:29:25-04:00

Keep in mind that you are a person first, Soldier second, and Officer third.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-08-30T00:33:36-04:00

Just be humble and soak in all knowledge from your PSG. Ensure you guys are on one accord and use that mentor time wisely. You will do great.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 30 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-08-30T00:33:56-04:00

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member You're joining the some of the best people on the planet. Learn from them. Listen to them. Grow with them. And eventually, help them grow. Respect the divide between yourself and your subordinates, but don't let it define your relationship with them -- that way lies resentment. Engage, learn, grow. 3 easy words that can lead to becoming the best officer you can be.

Response by SFC John Durham made Aug 30 at 2015 12:34 AM

2015-08-30T00:34:44-04:00

Listen to your Sr NCO's, and never show weakness. When in charge, take Charge! Take care of your people, always!

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Aug 30 at 2015 12:35 AM

2015-08-30T00:35:40-04:00

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member So, the adventure begins.
Great opportunity to grow. I agree with CSM Michael J. Uhlig , relationships matter. It is incumbent on you to develop those relationships. Treat your personnel like the professionals that they are and give them the latitude to do the jobs that they are trained to do. Support them, look out for them and they will take care of you.
I am sure that you will get a serious in-brief by CC, pay attention.
Find a SNCO in your section who is squared away, should be easy. Very similar to what TSgt Joshua Copeland was saying. They know the job, and the AF and can teach volumes. Learn from them, however, you are not looking for a fishing buddy, don't fall prey to being run around-good ones will not. Good ones will know that they have the no fooling responsibility to prep you for the road to Command.
Lead by example. Live by the AF Core Values. You will make mistakes, natural. Own them.
You have already started down the right path-mentorship. There are some hugely successful leaders on RP. Learn from what is posted. Keep your own posts short-and ask yourself what would your boss think about what you were GOING to post. Use real caution when posing questions, because if you air your unit's dirty laundry.....the world is small.
Good luck LT

Response by Sgt Joshua Ray made Aug 30 at 2015 12:39 AM

2015-08-30T00:39:23-04:00

I would say, learn how to be a good follower. Become a good follower of your superiors, but choose wisely. Find out the person that inspires you the most and follow them. Once you learn how to be inspired you will learn how to inspire others and become a successful leader.

Response by PVT Robert Gresham made Aug 30 at 2015 12:54 AM

2015-08-30T00:54:44-04:00

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member Don't be afraid to admit you don't know something. Believe me when I say that your troops will respect you more for finding out the answer, and doing it the right way, than doing it the wrong way and saying, "It's that way because I said so, and I'm in charge." The best officers I've worked for never had to utter the words, "I'm in charge." They led with a presence, and a distinction, of word, thought, and action that never left that in doubt.

Your NCOs know who's in charge, and the good ones will support you through thick and thin, as long as you are willing to do the same for them. You will quickly learn who has what strengths under your command. Use those strengths to strengthen yourself, and you will be respected by your superiors, your subordinates, and your peers.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 1:06 AM

2015-08-30T01:06:17-04:00

Welcome to Idaho!

Listen to the NCOs around you and you'll be fine.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 30 at 2015 1:40 AM

2015-08-30T01:40:02-04:00

Listen. Don't talk. You don't know anything. Trust your NCOs and listen to their advice

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made Aug 30 at 2015 6:30 AM

2015-08-30T06:30:38-04:00

Don't be affraid to ask question sir, develop leadership with your unit, and have fun.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 8:06 AM

2015-08-30T08:06:54-04:00

Good luck in your career. The advice already given is spot on.

Remember - Good luck has a tendency to follow hard work.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Aug 30 at 2015 8:58 AM

2015-08-30T08:58:46-04:00

Yes, read this thread in its entirety: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-is-the-one-thing-every-young-officer-must-know

What is the ONE thing EVERY young Officer must know? | RallyPoint

There's been quite a few discussions about how clueless young Lieutenants (and Ensigns) are when they hit the Operating Forces (and we often are). Here it is: your chance to publicly and permanently record the one topic you think is the most critical for us to know when we step in at your unit. With some luck, maybe those young officers will read it here and have the epiphany they need privately and everyone will be better off for it. So hit...

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 10:03 AM

2015-08-30T10:03:30-04:00

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member, welcome to active duty, with that being said, here are some keys that have helped me over the years.

1. Put your pride aside.
2. Be a team player.
3. Find a senior officer mentor.
4. Develop strong relationships with your peers.
5. Take care of your Airmen.
6. Find a strong NCO and learn from them.
7. Remain physically fit.
8. Always aim to learn something new both in the Military and with your civilian education.
9. Never compromise your integrity.
10. Have fun!

Response by TSgt Manuel Perez made Aug 30 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-08-30T10:41:29-04:00

Listening, and observations frist, listen to senor NCOs and you will be fine. be a leader

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 30 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-08-30T10:57:12-04:00

Be humble, listen to your NCOs, live the AF values, use the TLPs, OPORD, the CSM can be a very good mentor, if you want to use the unofficial channels. Write down your leadership philosophy and adjust it accordingly.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-08-30T11:40:09-04:00

Be confident, but not cocky. Keep your ears and eyes open. Listen to the advice your Plt Sgt gives you, but remember it is only advice. The success or failure of the plt is a snapshot of your leadership. Have a sense of humor, but don't let anyone "fuck" with you. Set reasonable goals for the plt. Good luck and Semper Fidelis.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2015 1:22 PM

2015-08-30T13:22:50-04:00

Listen to your NCO's (the smart ones, anyway). Always be ready to jump in front of the flack coming to your Airmen. Treat your people as best you can (but remember to always be firm and fair), and they will bend over backwards to take care of you.

Response by Col Lyman Faith made Aug 30 at 2015 2:28 PM

2015-08-30T14:28:41-04:00

1. Listen to your NCOs and learn.
2. Make a copy of your duties and responsibilities from the applicable AFI 21-series, post it and periodically review it. If you are doing what is required most of the time, you are doing the right thing.
3. Get out and walk around your unit. It is surprising what you will discover. You can lead a unit with e-mail, just not very effectively.
4. You are going to make mistakes, learn from them and don't make the same mistake twice.
5. You are starting out on a great adventure, have fun.

Response by Lt Col Stephen Petzold made Aug 30 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-08-30T15:03:19-04:00

What career field/AFSC are you going into?

Response by LTC John Shaw made Aug 30 at 2015 3:41 PM

2015-08-30T15:41:01-04:00

1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member Great advice provided by very wise and experienced people. Here is my advice:
1) Write down your goals!
That OER Support form, yes the document you are supposed to use to record your goals and what you will achieve. You need to actually use it and update it every month or so with what you have ACTUALLY done.
2) Hold yourself to the standards and then encourage others as a team to meet the standard.
You are part of the team, not 'above' the team, you ensure the standards are adhered and followed.
You coach, mentor and find coaches and mentors for yourself and your team members.
3) Set expectations of your subordinates in writing.
Why? When you write up what you expect you are forced to think through your expectations.
The purpose is not to beat up on your team, it is to provide clear guidance so you can be fair and consistent. NCOER support form is the document you should be using and establishing expectations.
Good luck in your new assignment.

Response by MSgt Darren VanDerwilt made Aug 31 at 2015 7:09 PM

2015-08-31T19:09:44-04:00

They're likely going to assign you to a SNCO, usually a Chief Master Sergeant. This may be good, it may be not so good. Remember, the individual picked by the higher-ups isn't necessarily picked for your benefit. What you should do though is observe the Airmen. The NCO they go to, show respect for, etc., is the one you should latch onto.

Response by SPC George Rudenko made Aug 31 at 2015 10:29 PM

2015-08-31T22:29:00-04:00

When you get an order, directive.... read it out loud to yourself,.... even if you have to go do it in private. If it does NOT make sense to you, ASK?

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 6:20 AM

2015-09-01T06:20:15-04:00

Lean on your SNCOs for their experience and wisdom, but most of all...but sure to always be fair and equitable! Lastly, don't forget...you are their leader, not their buddy, so do not let the lines blur.

Response by Capt John Schubert made Sep 1 at 2015 5:03 PM

2015-09-01T17:03:45-04:00

This will likely be a rehash, but I'll still add comments in case it helps.

As an LT, you're going to get dumped on from both ends. Just expect it. Your company grade officers will put menial tasks on you, and your airmen (enlisted) will give you a hard time as "the butter bar." Expect to make a lot of mistakes. However, keep in mind as you progress to 1st Lt, you need to make mistakes more and more the exception, than the norm. As a Capt, those mistakes need to be 100% gone.

Rely on your NCOs, but I'd lean more heavily on your TSgt's than any other rank. MSgts and above are "upward looking" in priorities. They're approaching their end of career and often, from my experience, less engaged with day to day ops. A Technical Sergeant (TSgt) however is still an expert on day to day, and more reliable for "gut checks" than a SSgt is likely to be on average. Granted, my Master Sergeants were top notch (however my last unit was "top heavy"), so there will be exceptions.

It's never too early to start planning your career as well. Start thinking about Squadron Officers School (SOS), as you'll be going before you know it. Four years will fly by as you're getting spun up to speed on your new career. Talk to Majors and LtCols, when you have down time, to ask them what assignments set them up for command and promotion opportunities. Remember, a very, very small number of your peers (to include you) make Lt Col, and so set yourself up from the get-go to be getting headed in the right direction.

Lead through example. If you want your troops sharp (this is now about 12-18 months after you report), then you need to set that example. Uniform always impeccable. Get to know your Airmen and how they are doing. If they fail, always ask yourself, "Why did they make the choice, and how as a leader could I have made the correct choice more easily apparent?" Your Airmen are smart men and women, who've entrusted themselves to your command, whether you deserve it or not. You owe them maturity, professionalism, and dignity. Never hit an Airman with a Letter of Counseling and then expect them to "argue their way out of it," as one horrible leader I had put it. You should already have talked to them thoroughly. Never make an assumption you know why they did whatever fell short of expectations. Let them explain.

And then, be consistent, firm, but remember mission comes first. If an Airman compromises the mission, the result needs to rectify it. As a maintainer, your professionalism has kinetic, and often deadly results when the mission fails. Bombs need to fall on target, and the number of take offs should match the landings.

I think you'll do great if you keep these things in mind.

Response by MSgt Jamie Lyons made Sep 1 at 2015 8:05 PM

2015-09-01T20:05:34-04:00

You got 2 ears and 1 mouth....listen twice as much as you speak.

Response by SPC Private Murphy made Sep 1 at 2015 9:04 PM

2015-09-01T21:04:24-04:00

Show you care for your troops by making sure enough Gridsquares are ordered for each person before any land navigation training.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2015 3:36 AM

2015-09-02T03:36:18-04:00

Learn to listen to your boss and senior rater, you are the instrument through which their vision is accomplished. When the battalion commander tells you to do something, it automatically becomes the most important thing in your life.

Response by SSgt Judy L made Sep 2 at 2015 3:48 PM

2015-09-02T15:48:07-04:00

Suck it up Buttercup :)

Response by MSgt Maurice Hodgdon made Sep 2 at 2015 6:43 PM

2015-09-02T18:43:47-04:00

Retired USAF MSgt as has been said listen to your troops, I had O-6s ask what to do (from the time i was and E-3 up ) and they did it. Some of my young troops had excellent ideas. I figured it never hurt me to call an E-1 Sir or Mam. Make them know you have there back. Never eat before they do and be just as uncomfortable. An example during Hurricane George I was in shelter at Keesler AFB Hospital and retired. I went to volunteer and when they looked at my ID they wanted me to lead a trash patrol instead I volunteered to work the dish room hot and steamy there was a Lt Col working beside me; she very quickly earned my respect and those of her troops that saw her.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 2 at 2015 8:07 PM

2015-09-02T20:07:51-04:00

I hope I am not being redundant: Listen, read, be humble, see tactical and technical knowledge, use TPLs and OPORDs, keep your unit informed, treat everyone with dignity and respect.

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Sep 3 at 2015 9:55 AM

2015-09-03T09:55:06-04:00

Do not be cocky and always remember, as book smart as you may think you are, you will have lots to learn as you grow. The soldiers will be your BEST information packet as they are the real back bone of the military. Good luck to you!

Response by SFC Terry Fortune made Sep 3 at 2015 11:29 AM

2015-09-03T11:29:25-04:00

Listen to your senior NCO's.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 3 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-09-03T16:38:09-04:00

Life will get hectic at times but keep studying your job technically and tactically. If you come in humble the NCOs will guide you.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 12:12 PM

2015-09-09T12:12:10-04:00

Yes. Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open. Learn your Airmen, learn their jobs, ask questions about their job and ask them to teach you what they do. You earn respect when they see that you care. All of those things will turn into a strong core; cohesive and full of espirit de corps. Don't come in acting like because you have a degree you know it all because you will lose the foundation you strive to build. This is coming from prior enlisted turned commissioned officer!! Happy leading!!!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 12:40 PM

2015-09-09T12:40:10-04:00

Read and take all advisory of these postings. Also, learn and know the processes. Learn the forms, personell and logistics to move property. Always involve personell with some OPORDER awareness.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 2:26 PM

2015-09-09T14:26:27-04:00

Lead from the front. That doesn't mean you should ever discount the advice of your NCO's. Get to know your soldiers but keep in mind that there should be a line of distinction between you. You're not "one of the guys". One think I learned through promotions, as you progress in rank, don't forget that you were a "butter bar" once too and treat your subordinate officers with respect.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2015 2:43 PM

2015-09-09T14:43:38-04:00

By posting this question, you are on your way to being a good officer. It shows that you admit to not knowing everything. Have faith in your NCOs, they will not steer you wrong. Provide the necessary officer level cover for those you lead. Handle everything at the lowest possible level. Earn the respect of you people by standing up for them and don't be afraid to lend them a hand. If they see you work with them, they will work for you. Seek counsel from the senior NCOs if you find yourself in a pickle.
good luck sir,

Response by Maj Joseph Greenawalt made Sep 9 at 2015 10:57 PM

2015-09-09T22:57:41-04:00

Respect you senior NCOs.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 12:37 PM

2015-09-10T12:37:14-04:00

If you're not a people person you need to learn how to become one. Not only are you responsible for making the decisions that will impact the lives of 40+ Soldiers (depending on your assignment), but you have to lead them too. For the first three months as a PL just observe, communicate with your Platoon Sergeant, learn from your NCOs, dig into the ARs, FMs, ATPs, and study, and always protect your Soldiers. They are yours to mentor, protect, encourage, and provide for.

Do not be afraid to tell your superiors "No, sir/ma'am, we cannot possibly do x because y, but we can do z." After 3 months of PL time your superior officers will look at you as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for your platoon. You must know your Soldiers: not only their names and rank, but whether their married, have children, goals, hometowns, strengths, weaknesses, etc. You must know your platoon's equipment and capabilities.

Remember that your decisions impact Soldiers and do not make decision lightly, but make them! In the end, your time in charge of Soldiers will test you, be painful (at times), and a headache but completely worth it. If your lucky enough to get a second platoon, learn from your first and do not make the same mistakes. Whenever your time is done and you're moved to a staff or XO position you will be able to reflect and realize that your time as a PL was the best time of your life. There is nothing else like it. So while you're at BOLC keep in mind that you will soon be in charge of Soldiers and strive to be prepared for the day your Commander charges you with the lives of Soldiers.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 1:34 PM

2015-09-10T13:34:19-04:00

Coming to a new cmd on would
B reserved and get a feel for the surroundings before they open up. Be that way. Then some more! People can come across as "friendly & nice" until they find out things about you that they can use against you. Have an e-9 like that. The dagger came out once you told her your business in an effort to"help" you. Put a restraining order on her. Some r such game players, manipulaters it is sad. You want them to be leaders but they seem to care for just their own "clicques." If you get a place that is really like a family u will be very lucky!
Use your intuition.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2015 2:08 PM

2015-09-10T14:08:50-04:00

Sir,
As a retired active duty SNCO, I can tell you that I have had the pleasure of working with very outstanding CGOs over the years. That being said, the one's that always fared well were those who listened to their corresponding Senior Enlisted members. I would recommend keeping a close relationship with them, listen and learn. You'll be in charge soon enough, but without these seasoned mentors, going at it alone will only be your ruin. If one is is not assigned over you, find the one that is the SME in your area and latch on.

Best,

Ken F. Santos (MSgt - Retired)

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2015 11:16 AM

2015-09-11T11:16:30-04:00

Listen to your NCO, respect them, don't try out your butter bar on them. Your NCOIC will be a good mentor, but also find an officer with experience, knowledge, and good communication skills.

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Sep 11 at 2015 6:00 PM

2015-09-11T18:00:27-04:00

The senior NCO working for you will know more than you do---His job will be to train you, but not to run the unit for you. Listen to his counsel. Because you have a commission everything that happens will be your responsibility. In the end, you'll have to make the last decision, so gather all the information you can. You won't have all of the answers yourself, so ask for suggestions from some of your better men. Your senior NCO will know who they are. Work as a team--don't try and be a one man band--you'll fail. I never had a lot of patience for an NCO who let a Second Lieutenant fail because he thought it was funny. It makes for bad relations between enlisted and commissioned members of the military. I don't know what you're going to find in your duty station, but I wish you all the luck in the world.

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Sep 11 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-09-11T21:05:17-04:00

Yes, listen and learn from your enlisted E-6 and above subordinates. They are there to further train and keep you out of trouble as long you back them up.

Response by A1C Lisa Casserly made Sep 15 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-09-15T14:55:41-04:00

Yes. Recognize that you are the officer, but please listen to the people who will work under you. You will find that your NCOs and Enlisted people may have been-there-done-that before, and can steer you away from time-wasting traps. I remember getting a new 2nd Lt, and then starting the rolodex of bad ideas all over again, just because. That arrogance, (I'm the officer, I'm in charge) ... well, I'm trying to think of a way to politely tell you that your people will hate your guts and maybe even do their best to get you into trouble if you cop that attitude. I think - just because you are ASKING THIS QUESTION - that arrogance is not going to be your issue. You don't have to let anyone run over you rough-shod, and you are in charge, but remember to be a decent human being. I also remember greeting that same afore-mentioned 2nd Lt, and having her turn her nose up and ignore me as she walked by. That doesn't sit well with the troops. And, just like a marriage or any other relationship, COMMUNICATION is the most important thing. Talk to your troops, bounce ideas around, and even just be friendly... so that you form good relationships with your people.

Response by Lt Col John Eliopolo Cpc, Eli Mp made Sep 15 at 2015 4:37 PM

2015-09-15T16:37:10-04:00

Ok, I read through several of the responses, a lot of good advice given to you. The only thing I'll add is watch out for the bullshitters below you and above you in the chain of command. Find the Officers and NCOs you can trust, and learn everything you can from them. How do you know who they are? They are the authentic ones: wise in the ways of the world and the miltary, humble, care about the mission & the unit members, and aren't in it only for themselves. They will be straightforward with you like it is--the good, the bad and the ugly of the service. You don't have to learn EVERYTHING from the school of hard knocks. They will help you get up the learning curve quicker than you can get up it by yourself.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2015 7:11 PM

2015-09-16T19:11:34-04:00

Best advice I can give you Sir is the same advice I give to Cherry Privates when they come to us fresh out of their IET; "Sit down, shut up, and listen to your NCOs." The NCOs will provide you the ins and outs of the unit, the job, and the way of life. They will show you how things work, how things run, and how to best assess and lead those under you, because they are the hands-on force that know your subordinates in a way that you honsetly wouldn't be able to do.

Response by SFC Christopher Springs made Sep 21 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-09-21T12:45:35-04:00

The Army places Senior NCO's and young officers together for a reason. A new officer comes equipped with the latest training and skills to push our Army forward and into the future. An experienced NCO is there to provided historical reference and a guide on best practices to make sure what works continues to work. Both are needed equally! Take charge and lead but never be afraid to step back and ask questions or take advice also. We all have something to contribute to the mission.

Response by SSgt Judy L made Nov 1 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-11-01T10:48:15-05:00

Take a grammar class

Response by SPC William Del Valle made Nov 8 at 2015 12:47 AM

2015-11-08T00:47:26-05:00

my CSM always said "you can do whatever you want, you just have to deal with the consequences"

Response by MSgt John Darchangelo made Dec 15 at 2016 3:36 AM

2016-12-15T03:36:50-05:00

Listen to and pay attention to your Senior NCOs and what they tell you. Believe me, as a 2LT you will be surprised how little you actually know about anything.

Response by CH (LTC) Robert Leroe made Jan 20 at 2018 7:38 PM

2018-01-20T19:38:57-05:00

Get to know your First Sergeant.