Command Climate Survey: Are the Soldiers voices really being heard?

In good Units - yes

In poor Units - no

Sir, Command Climate surveys can be useful if they are taken seriously by command. I agree with SSG Mikus about the CO personally reading each survey and compiling a list of each answer. The list should include the number of times an answer is given. This will give the CO a better idea on which concerns to address first. The CO should then conduct small group sensing sessions with the unit by rank: junior enlisted, SGT and SSG, SFC and above. These sessions need to be conducted WITHOUT any other leader present.

Personally, in over 22 years, I have filled out so many surveys but have rarely seen any change especially with getting rid of toxic leaders. In fact, I see it as toxic leaders have just increased over the years.

I think it really depends on how the command uses the survey. If the command uses it as an honest look at the organization and/or leadership from the inside out and addresses issues or perceptions, it's a good thing. On the flip side, if the survey is just a block check and never mentioned again, it becomes worse than useless. Communication is key.

Keep in mind that the simple fact that Soldiers don't like something does not mean it is either necessarily bad or something the chain of command can or should control.

CPT Swartout mentioned the initial survey. Like the initial command inspection, that survey gives him a snapshot of the organization he inherited and the opportunity to hear/address his Soldiers' concerns. If I'm not mistaken, he should get a second survey at about the 6 month mark and a third survey and command inspection further down the road. The follow-on "looks" give the command team an azimuth check.

As for the "It doesn't matter what I write, nothing will change." comment: I believe this is where we must ensure the company grade officers and junior NCOs understand the surveys' purpose and that they communicate it to the Soldiers.

I suspect we will see more frustration as budget cuts force missions contracted out over the past 12 years to be reduced, eliminated, or pushed back to Soldiers for execution.

Bottom line: It's a tool. Its effectiveness depends on the command team.