What you think about the good old boy system?

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:42:45 -0400

Service members move up to key positions based on who they know while others are not given a chance to show their capabilities or potential.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 7:50 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:50:13 -0400

Probably one of the most frustrating and counterproductive things I've seen in the Army. I would think the only way to squash it is to have quality leaders who are promoted out of merit, and not by their connections. Yet it still happens and it continues the vicious cycle of installing incompetent and corrupt leaders, while frustrating the Soldiers who actually have potential and want to make the organization a better place, who end up leaving because they see they things will never change...

In short, it's the persistent elephant in the room, but it takes senior leaders and commanders to put a stop to it.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Aug 8 at 2015 7:53 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 19:53:13 -0400

This was a problem, a very bad problem in the 80's & 90's....with all the programs available to help us feel good about ourselves, it seems to not be as big a problem....many complain they don't get an opportunity however, they do not seek the opportunity to truly show they are amongst the best and deserve the better opportunities.

Have you made yourself competitive, like competing for entry into clubs like the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club? That would prove you to be the most eligible.

Response by 1SG Trina Hines, M. Ed. made Aug 8 at 2015 9:06 PM

1SG Trina Hines, M. Ed. — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 21:06:41 -0400

You asked a very good question. I have found that some people considered the good old buddy system just networking. Be it good, bad or indifferent there will be "buddy systems" in all aspects of life (military and civilian). So instead of focusing on the system, it is really more helpful just to know what you bring to the table and know your worth.

Become the subject matter expert in your area of responsibility and remain competitive. Watch the negative influences around you that will try to have you focus on the injustices. It is so counter productive, because your positive energy can be pulled from you. You need that energy to focus on your next promotion or transitioning from the military (depending on where you are in your career). Last, you are developing your character, skills, knowledge, and abilities which the military is preparing you for a life long journey of success (post military). I hope this make sense.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 8 at 2015 10:48 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 22:48:03 -0400

Based on the size of the panel of voters in centralized promotions. Just knowing one person doesn't really do you any good when it comes to the senior ranks. IMO

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 2:00 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 02:00:12 -0400

Reputation and "who you know" is a fact of life. I'll argue that we are all ingrained to favor those who we are familiar with and those who have proven themselves to be competent in the past (reputation). Is it wrong to favor NCOs whom I have served with in the past and have proven themselves to be great leaders? They are the first I would fight for if I see them on an inbound gains roster.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Aug 9 at 2015 5:59 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 05:59:19 -0400

Promotions should be on merit plain and simple

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 8:00 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 08:00:50 -0400

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member I would hope this type of thing is the exception rather than the norm. If this happens it is a shame and is a product of the command climate. As leaders, we are all responsible for stopping this cycle if we see it. The opportunity for soldiers to have an equal chance to be successful based on their own merits is essential to a positive command and team-centric environment.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 9 at 2015 4:28 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 16:28:50 -0400

I was an active duty officer and was stationed with a large National Guard unit. I saw the power of the buddy system to promote the studs, however, I saw a SGM with less than 10 years in. It is a double bladed sword.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2015 8:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 20:50:30 -0400

All I can say is that the worst nco I have ever had was a product of this. NCOs now worry way to much about bullets on an NCOER and impressing their superiors. If they worried only about their two basic responsibilities, accomplishment of their mission, and the welfare of their soldiers, the damn bullets would write themselves.