How do I go about getting a spot at a promotion board?

2017-12-11T10:32:17-05:00

I don't mean it to sound like an asshole, but my leadership has a lot of weak spots. I usually take care of myself unless it is something they absolutely have to be in attendance for, but I need help here. I just need to know if I have hope of advancing in my career if no one is willing to help, and where to start being that it is on my own. Any advice is welcome and very much appreciated.

Response by LTJG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2017 10:36 AM

2017-12-11T10:36:00-05:00

I am not sure there is a way to guarantee you a spot at a promotion board. I would say do your job to the best of your ability. Take on some collaterals so that your chain sees that you can handle more work. Also, maybe talk to the next person in your chain to figure out what can be done on their end to help you succeed.

Response by CSM Chuck Stafford made Dec 11 at 2017 11:12 AM

2017-12-11T11:12:12-05:00

Firstly, brush up on the standards for promotion -- AR 600-8-19
Knowing where you are regarding time in service, time in grade and military education shows you where you stand in the Army's "big picture".
Then, fill out a promotion points worksheet -- step up your game in areas where you can make yourself more competitive.
Then get yourself out there and noticed by stepping up and volunteering for additional duties/responsibilities as well as Soldier of the month boards. Good luck - hard work does not go unnoticed.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Dec 11 at 2017 12:23 PM

2017-12-11T12:23:01-05:00

First of all what is your motivation for sitting on a promotion board? Not being nosy at all but most NCO's groan inwardly when they are tasked with a promotion board assignment and its wrong that they do. Asking to sit on a promotion board means you are available and also in most every case YOU personally are squared away. You won't be picked if you don't have your career together. Your uniform, grooming habits, schools, PT score all have to fall in line with the reg's. If you are squared away by all means mention it to your Training NCO that you would be interested in being on the next promo board if they need someone. You mentioned that your leadership has a few weak spots and I have to tell you that serving on the next promo isn't going to fix that necessarily. You had better talk to your chain of command and ask what you need to do personally to be promoted. Then ask what you need to do to be considered for the next promotion board.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2017 10:55 AM

2017-12-13T10:55:46-05:00

The above comments were spot on make sure you do your job to the best of your ability. Especially CSM, alot of people want to go to the board but don't do the things to make sure they are competitive. As an HR Sergeant I've seen too many people come to the board and don't even have an up to date PT/Wpns Card or max correspondence.

Lastly, talk to your leadership and literally ask them that question. Fairly soon, however, boards will be mandatory. But don't wait get it done now

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Dec 13 at 2017 11:30 AM

2017-12-13T11:30:16-05:00

The best way to compete for promotion, which I assume is what your question is about, is to be the very best Soldier in your grade in your unit. It's the old saying, the most important job in your career is the one you have now. I'm not sure how the Army picks E-5s, but if it involves a selection board learn what the required accomplishments are to meet the board, such as time in service. Also, talk with current E-5s to understand what the other selection factors might be, such as completion of a school or acquisition of a skill level in your MOS. Once you have this information, do all of the required and desired things. If you meet a board personally, study up and get your appearance squared away. Clean and press that Army Service Uniform if that's the required wear.

I'm a little concerned about your perception of your leadership. Service is usually a "team sport," so take another look at the organization to which you're assigned to see the formal and informal teams. Be part of at least one of each. The formal team should be all enlisted that work for one NCO. The informal team may be all the enlisted in a certain MOS or job function working on the same detail or shift as you. Both teams provide support and information you need. There are very few Lone Ranger soldiers getting a creditable job done supporting the mission. Don't think you're so good at your job that you don't need anybody's help or support. You'll be missing out.