The Next Step in My Career

2014-11-10T14:37:49-05:00

This is a very broad issue: I'm up for promotion to SSG, have not completed ALC (leaving for it in April), and I have not deployed. My promotion points are seriously lacking. I could give plenty of excuses (because that's all any reason is). My APFT score is being worked on (I PT regularly yet still can't seem to make my score better), and I just went to the range Friday and scored 38/40. I am in the process of some wonderful e-learning, but that's still only going to get me maybe 25 points when all is said and done. I have two AAM's and two ARCAM's. I wish THAT list was longer... My last NCOER was really good, and I have no badges or skills beyond my MOS and Instructor.

So, the question is: What would be the best thing for me to do? Would a deployment be my best option? (I'd like to deploy regardless, but with schools/AT's already scheduled, additional duties, and currently unemployed, time is a bit of a factor.)

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 3:11 PM

2014-11-10T15:11:17-05:00

SGT Private RallyPoint Member, I'm probably too far removed in time (retired in 2006) to give you good current advice, but something you said doesn't seem to make sense to me. You wrote that you are currently unemployed. Wouldn't that be the perfect time to volunteer to deploy? If I'm way off, please school me.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 5:57 PM

2014-11-10T17:57:22-05:00

Broaden your military education (and points) by doing distance learning courses. They are easy to work into your schedule, and board members like to see efforts at self-improvement.

See if there are opportunities to volunteer for exercises or missions that your unit has on the horizon. They build great experience, provide excellent training, and offer an opportunity to potentially earn an award if you do well.

Look for ways to contribute to the community, and when you do, let your supervisor know. The Military Outstanding Volunteer medal is pretty rare in the Reserve.

Lastly, look for ways to stand out. Your description of yourself presented above was (no offense, please) fairly ordinary for a Soldier in your position. Make yourself extraordinary. Try for Best Warrior. Audie Murphy Board. NCO of the Year. Volunteer. Be Jonny-on-the-spot when work needs to get done.

You are doing a great thing by soliciting advise on what to do to better yourself. That shows me potential. Let me know if you want specific suggestions. I do a lot of promotion boards both administratively and as a member. Your MOS is relevant to the discussion as well.
Good luck, SGT Private RallyPoint Member