Posted on Dec 1, 2014
SGT Motor Transport Operator
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I found out that I made cutoff for SGT the day before Thanksgiving and was so happy; I will be getting promoted tomorrow after lunch. As I sit back and think about my new found responsibilities I get a tad bit nervous and hope that I will be able to live up to what everyone expects me to be. Does anyone have some words of wisdom about what helped them to become a better leader or some items that I can store away in my tool box for later use?
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Responses: 6
SFC Mark Merino
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I was a December NCO baby too......20 years ago. First off, CONGRATS! It's the big time now. All those things we chalked up to learning while growing up in the ranks is behind you. Everyone will be watching you to see if you are going to be a leader or a liker. You must strive for both. The days of walking around like CSM Plumley are over, I'm sad to say. Leaders who rule with an iron fist lead by intimidation. People who are desperate to please everyone have little concept of leadership. Lead by example. Do what is right because it is right. Accept nothing less than 100%, just as you should give 100%. NCO Creed..... Live it! What you do now to train and mentor your troops, to include your junior Officers will determine the future leadership of the military. EDUCATION! It might take you your entire career to finish your bachelors or masters degrees but get on it immediately. Don't do it for the points (which are extremely important), but do it for your future. Schools! Never turn down a school because it might be available later. Take charge of your career. Don't wait for things to come to you. Family! They didn't join the military, but if you aren't careful, they might not be there when you are done in the military. Never be afraid to ask a superior for guidance. Have a plan on your own, but if experience sheds light on better ways to be effective than incorporate it. These are just a few nuggets from Uncle Mark. There are a lot of great leaders right here on RallyPoint. Best of luck in your future.
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SGT Motor Transport Operator
SGT (Join to see)
10 y
Thank you for your words of wisdom SFC Merino.
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1SG Chief Counterintelligence/Human Intelligence Sergeant
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Just remember as you get promoted today, you are now an NCO and all those Specialist who were your buddies before are now your subordinates. I think this is the hardest transition for our young NCOs today. Just the fact that you posted this, shows you have a good mindset. Congrats and keep leading from the front
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SGT Motor Transport Operator
SGT (Join to see)
10 y
I forgot to say Thank you!
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SGT Motor Transport Operator
SGT (Join to see)
10 y
1SG,
That is very true it is hard to make that transition from SPC to SGT. I have watched my comrades before me try to do it and they are still struggling with it to this day.
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SFC Recruiter
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Congrats on your promotion. It sounds like you are taking your new responsibilities seriously. I don't think anyone is ever prepared completely at the beginning. It takes experience that you acquire over time. One thing that helped me was remembering some of the outstanding NCOs I had. Your Senior NCOs are a great resource to learn from. Pamphlet 600-25, Army leadership, and FM 6-22 are good references. All of this, common sense, and maintaining your responsibilities will take you a long way. Good luck!
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SGT Motor Transport Operator
SGT (Join to see)
10 y
Thank you SSG Fischer
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