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After so many years in the military I finally feel like I'm ready for the next step in my career as far as promotions go. I've learned everything I can as a SPC but IM still scared as all get out of becoming an NCO. Any words of wisdom from those of you out there that have been in leadership for awhile?
Posted 10 y ago
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<span style="background-color: rgb(248, 248, 248);"><font color="#4d4d4d"><span style="font-size: 12px;">SPC Zamora…I'll give you the same advice I gave SGT Walker, who asked almost the same question a few months ago.</span></font></span><div><span style="background-color: rgb(248, 248, 248);"><font color="#4d4d4d"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br></span></font></span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgb(248, 248, 248);"><font color="#4d4d4d"><span style="font-size: 12px;">I remember the day I was promoted to E-5 back in the day. I wish someone had told me that my buddies (E-1-E-4) would take advantage of our friendship that we had before I was promoted. Remember - you have to separate your official duties as their supervisor from the personal relationship you may have had when you were SPCs together. Now - you must enforce standards that you may have broken while you were an E-4. Do the right thing…when no one is watching…and you will do just fine! Professionally develop your subordinates, continue your professional and civilian education! Good Luck!</span></font></span></div>
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SGT (Join to see)
I too can agree with that, and this is from personal experience. My soldiers knew me as a SPC before I made E-5, even though the PSG tried to take steps to make the transition easier like, like moving me to a different section, it was not that affective. they would still try to take advantage of the friendship tthat we once had. for a time I had to really get on them to make that seperation and enforce the standards. I am a firm believer that once you are promoted to NCO, that is a time for you to transfer to a different Company or Unit to make the transition easier on yourself without the added professional seperation anxiety. Good luck, and live by the Creed.
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Exercise initiative by taking appropriate action in the absence of orders.
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One of my mentors once told me "If you think you're ready for the position, you're already too late;" basically telling me to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone. I almost equate it to like a mental "working out," no-pain-no-gain way of looking at it. Strain your abilities and they will grow to match.
I like how you're grounded enough to be aware of your own apprehension about stepping into the increased responsibility. That apprehension and caution, the voice in the back of your head saying "is this the right thing to do" can help you excel as a leader. Harness that, but don't let it control you or make you indecisive.
Understand that being a leader is not about you, but about your people. It's not about being in charge or being the boss; it's about getting people to want to follow you. You'll inherit their successes, but also their failures and you'll be expected to be able to address that.
I like how you're grounded enough to be aware of your own apprehension about stepping into the increased responsibility. That apprehension and caution, the voice in the back of your head saying "is this the right thing to do" can help you excel as a leader. Harness that, but don't let it control you or make you indecisive.
Understand that being a leader is not about you, but about your people. It's not about being in charge or being the boss; it's about getting people to want to follow you. You'll inherit their successes, but also their failures and you'll be expected to be able to address that.
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