Why don't some people speak up to make a difference when given a chance?

MSG Martinis Butler — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 07:20:35 -0400

Does that frustrate you when people in the military constantly complain about how higher ups are making all the wrong decisions on money, benefits, who gets promoted, new regulations, same sex marriages etc. When given the chance to voice their opinion to those who matter they respond with its not worth it, they'll never listen, or I'm going to just stay in my lane. WHY WON'T PEOPLE SPEAK UP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Response by SFC Christopher Perry made Apr 27 at 2014 10:40 AM

SFC Christopher Perry — Sun, 27 Apr 2014 10:40:20 -0400

SFC Martinis,
I for one seem to have the exact opposite problem. I think everyone up high should value my opinion on things as much as I do. Therefore, when it comes time to speak up, or often beforehand, you can bet my voice is heard.

That being said, I think the majority of folks see themselves as a very small fish in a massive abyss of a pond. They see all these servery results come down the line and say "why is it that they never speak to me?, but don't bother filling out the ones that are sent over digitally. Much as in a major election, you are only one vote, but every single one matters!

Response by SPC Charles Brown made Apr 28 at 2014 12:12 AM

SPC Charles Brown — Mon, 28 Apr 2014 00:12:58 -0400

I think it boils down to fear of reprisals. I think the idea of asking the junior man first, while a good idea, can give the impression that they are only asking me first so they can ridicule me for my suggestion. Or, I have an idea but it goes against the grain, so if I make it I am going to get in trouble for saying what I think. Many people are afraid of saying anything that they think will make them look "stupid". It took me awhile to learn to speak up, mostly because I grew up under the stigma of "Charlie Brown" and afraid that people would expect me to have the dumbest ideas ever created by man. Eventually I started asking why, and making suggestions, much to my surprise many of which were taken seriously and building confidence in myself.

Response by MSG Martinis Butler made May 4 at 2014 2:39 AM

MSG Martinis Butler — Sun, 04 May 2014 02:39:30 -0400

I believe that speaking up helps others not only understand where change can be implemented but who those individuals are that want change. When you refuse to speak you may be hindering others more than your helping. Often times others may want to ask or even state those concerns that concerns you. When the opportunity presents itself be wise and take advantage of it!

Response by MSG Martinis Butler made Jun 4 at 2014 4:50 AM

MSG Martinis Butler — Wed, 04 Jun 2014 04:50:37 -0400

By not speaking up does this not send the wrong signal to the younger Soldiers? If something goes on and that Soldier expresses a legitimate concern do you think they will tell you knowing your to afraid to speak up?

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Sep 17 at 2014 4:41 PM

SGT Kristin Wiley — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 16:41:40 -0400

SFC Butler,

I have spoken up. I have noticed that 1. many leaders do not like their opinions to be contradicted (even with proof) or being told they are wrong; and 2. Many individuals who have spoken up have realized that this essentially kills their career. I'm sure you'll response to this with comments about going to IG, EO, Command inquiries. Trust me, I've tried all of those options MULTIPLE TIMES, they don't work and in my experience they tend to further aggravate the problem (despite claiming you're protected from reprisal). The problem isn't about speaking up, it's getting leaders to listen. Even breaking things down into groups (Enlsited/Officer) and having focus groups with these individuals many people will not speak up because SOMEONE in the room will notify the command who it was that essentially threw them under the bus about these issues. The most senior leaders put so much trust in their deputies, chief of staffs, and assistants that these individuals could do no wrong in their minds. So if these individuals are doing something wrong, getting Senior Leaders to recongize and do something about their 'best buds' is almost impossible.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 18 at 2014 1:23 PM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sat, 18 Oct 2014 13:23:48 -0400

MSG Martinis Butler , You make an outstanding point. One of the first and best leadership lessons the United States Marine Corps taught me was that of loyal dissention. Meaning I am loyal to my leader and will not have a discussion which damages that leader with others, but will professionally disagree, provide alternatives, and present reasons why the alternatives are better choices. I was lucky; most leaders I worked with respected that and responded well. I have had ones who didn’t and that experience was REALLY BAD.

My thought is many don't share for career preservation, thoughts their opinion will be discounted, or a fear (perhaps real) of reprisal.

In the end integrity is an important value to preserve and protect. However, in the age of drawdowns, reduction in forces, and shrinking budget, I can only hope strong NCOs like you keep the tradition alive.

Thank you for this question.

SFC Joseph M. Finck USA (Ret)

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Oct 19 at 2014 10:56 AM

SGT Steve Oakes — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 10:56:40 -0400

I also experienced this during my time on active duty. One thing I found that worked sometimes. Instead of saying their decision was wrong. I would just suggest an alternative I thought was better. This did not work often. Perhaps because I was young, inexperienced and therefore my idea was not better. But I never got into trouble.
As military leaders. We need our subordinates to follow our instructions, quickly and accurately. Questioning those instructions can undermine authority, and cause others to question the leaders competence. That can disrupt the mission and kill morale.
On the other hand, accepting a good suggestion from a subordinate does none of the above and can even boost morale.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2014 1:01 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 13:01:41 -0500

Fear. They do not want to be ridiculed, spied upon or chastised. They are unsure who the good guys are or if they are vulnerable in some way.