Posted on Jun 21, 2016
What is the best way to lead a new soldier who is uncertain if they even want to be in the army?
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Interesting conversation. So when I was a young jarhead, we used to say U Signed the MFing Contract (USMC). So where's the commitment from these troops to live up to the contract they signed. I guess the USMC response is too direct. I liked one of the earlier responses where the troop was given the command response of fine, we'll send you packing. Isn't the Army downsizing? Cut him loose. Save the energy for the true hard chargers .... Maybe I HAVE gotten too "old corps."
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Speak to them as their leader, find out what was their main reason for coming into the military. Also, find out why they are feeling the way they do. Get them some counseling. And most of all let them know that you care for them
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Everyone has uncertainty, especially an impressionable new private fresh out of ait, more than likely he was not told the truth from the beginning by his recruiter explain this is not just a job but a life choice, and make the best of your.enlistment so you don't look back in 20 years and say that you wish you would do it over
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SGT York.....if you do not like to read, watch the movie. Wow! I am just amazed this question is posted by a SPC. Judging by your question, it appears that you will be an amazing leader. You already started the right way. Okay, the question at hand. I have not read each and every post. I do apologized if I repeat what everyone else said. Did you or anyone else has asked the Soldier why he/she is acting or thinking a certain way? When I was a 1SG, we had a person transferred to my unit because their unit wanted this SGT kicked out of the Army. My CSM said, no, let's try something. Mind you, the person was transferred to an entirely different CMD for "rehabilitation" for a period of six months. The person was missing formation, showing up late, etc. CSM gave me the heads up. I spoke to the CDR and my orderly room NCOIC, we put the SGT under the SSG. I even spoke to one the PLT SGTs about the transfer. Long story short. the SSG (orderly room NCOIC), provided mentorship to the SGT. They went on ruck marches around post after duty hours and talked. The SFC (PLT SGT) found out the SGT liked to take walks on trails around the area by themselves. What was really common and obvious, the SGT was ALWAYS alone. SFC joined the SGT on walks during the weekends, and more talking. There were issues with the family back home, like any typical family. My kids will see the SGT and I always had them stopped to talk to the SGT. Without failing, SGT would light up, even gave my 9 yr old books to read. Every time they see the SGT, they stop to chat about the books.You will see the SGT at the food court with a book and ALWAYS alone. I would talk to the SGT from time to time and ask how they were doing and their family. We had no issues from the SGT. SGT never missed formation or disrespectful. SGT is extremely shy and keeps to themselves. As pointed out already. I even tried to keep the SGT passed the six months mark. I left the unit before the six months mark. A year after I left the unit, I passed by the original unit. Guess who's picture I saw on the wall as NCO of the quarter. I stopped, and commented on it to their current SFC. The SFC added, they are a SSG now. This was some one that wanted out of the Army, back to the States to their family, and was about to get kicked out of the Army. For all you know, this Soldier just needs someone to talk to. This Soldier needs a good mentor. They come in all types and rank, judging by your question. For all you know, they are depressed. Once you get to the bottom of the issue, things might get better. If all and all fails, failure to adapt. Hope this help!
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Advising them of the reality and severity of the situation-its too late. Tighten up now, "You're not the only one who thought we would just play call of duty and paintball for training everyday, ir whatever you pictured in your seemingly endless filling of paperwork signing up for the Army." They can go to work, or suffer the repercussions of the UCMJ.
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There are always choices. In this instance the soldier has a choice to "army" or do extra "army" after regular duty hours. The soldier's choice. No one made the soldier enlist.
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Soldiers change their minds frequently. Although they may be committed to ETSing, circumstances change and they may decide to reenlist at the last minute. As an NCO it is your responsibility to help the soldier grow. Focus on the mission and ensure they are well trained. Help prepare them for their Army career and at the same time provide the necessary skill for them to be successful when they depart the Army.
As leaders we need to know what drives our Soldiers. Find out what they have vested interests in and help them accomplish their goals. I would let the Soldier know that they will be pushed to perform at a high level. Compete in boards and competitions. You will push them to meet the requirements for promotion. You cannot treat them any differently then you would treat your high speed, committed to the Army, soldiers. If they depart they will be grateful for the leadership and mentorship you provided. In the end, they may stay due to your leadership and will appreciate you pushing them to succeed.
As leaders we need to know what drives our Soldiers. Find out what they have vested interests in and help them accomplish their goals. I would let the Soldier know that they will be pushed to perform at a high level. Compete in boards and competitions. You will push them to meet the requirements for promotion. You cannot treat them any differently then you would treat your high speed, committed to the Army, soldiers. If they depart they will be grateful for the leadership and mentorship you provided. In the end, they may stay due to your leadership and will appreciate you pushing them to succeed.
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They need to be reminded that they made a binding agreement and a commitment. They are going to be held accountable for their actions or inactions. Pair them up with somebody who went through that same hesitancy and decided to stay.
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