What can I do if I feel like my unit leadership is setting me up for failure?

2018-05-21T19:54:13-04:00

I feel like my unit constantly belittles me and sets me up for failure. What can I do?

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made May 21 at 2018 8:29 PM

2018-05-21T20:29:23-04:00

I had this same problem in Basic Training. Then I became Squad Leader in AIT. PV2 Private RallyPoint Member

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2018 12:04 AM

2018-05-22T00:04:31-04:00

The best advice I can give you is to prove them wrong. This won’t be an easy task, because you will have to be on top of your game at all times.
Here are a few pointers;
• Master your job.
• Be punctual.
• Be squared away (neat uniform, always have writing material handy, and always have the necessary gear when required).
• Volunteer to go to schools or training when opportunity presents itself.
• Be motivated.

When I was a Private, I gained respect from soldiers in my unit by following those pointers mentioned above. Also, I made sure I had the highest marksmanship and AFPT score in my unit. Follow these tips and you’ll be fine!

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made May 22 at 2018 10:49 AM

2018-05-22T10:49:50-04:00

Depending on the details, it could be real or it may be perceived. For example as a PV2 I sometimes felt the same way - that people are talking down my peers and I because of our age, rank, time in service etc. What I came to find out is that they weren't always talking down to me but they did talk to me like I lacked experience because the reality was that I did. It can be frustrating but it will go away as you learn more about how the Army works.

Are you willing to provide us with some examples?

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made Oct 25 at 2018 5:44 PM

2018-10-25T17:44:12-04:00

I remember having listened to my orders and feeling it was suicide but never without expressing to the person issuing that order I was glad they were "leading us". :D