Posted on Dec 8, 2015
SGT(P) Medical Logistics Specialist
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Next month I will start getting ready to go to the promotion board. Recently I've been thinking about how I will be when I do get my stripes and join the outstanding NCO Corps. Both my parents are retired SFCs and I have always looked up and aspired to be just like them. What makes a good NCO or leader in general? How do you know you are ready?
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Responses: 15
SGT David T.
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Accomplish the mission and take care of your troops. That is the most basic answer. Also, you will not ever know everything, so never stop learning. Empathy, compassion, firmness, and fairness are also good traits. And never ever under any circumstances try and BS your troops, they will see right through it. The final thing off the top of my head is make a decision and go with it. You can adjust fire from a bad decision but you cannot overcome indecision.
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SGT Gary Gration
SGT Gary Gration
9 y
I would also add keep your troops informed. Good news or bad news!
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SGT David T.
SGT David T.
9 y
SGT Gary Gration - Oh that's a good one but should go without saying lol
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SGT Michelle Benavides de Dominguez
SGT Michelle Benavides de Dominguez
9 y
I would always ask my troops if they had any ideas or solutions than what I planned out. Be open to any suggestions, because you as NCO will be wrong at times but having a team effort in a situation or problem is a great way to build comraderie
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SGT(P) Mental Health Technician
SGT(P) (Join to see)
9 y
It also helps to know yourself and how you are. And always be aware of your personal reactions. A good leader doesn't just lead others but they are able to lead and develop themselves which in turn motivates others to do the same.
Always be as open as you can to criticism and discussions.
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SGT Richard H.
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Edited 9 y ago
Don't command your troops to follow you. Be that guy who inspires them to do so through your actions. People will follow someone that they have to follow, but they will follow you to hell and back if they actually believe in you.
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SFC Senior Small Group Leader
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Learn the NCO Creed, not just the words or being able to recite it but the meaning of The Creed itself. Every response I've read so far has something in it from the NCO Creed which is a testament to its purpose and meaning.
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