As part of the command preparation series we covered how to prepare for command (LINK) and the company commander course (LINK).  Both are good primers with great input! Incoming commander speech, COMPLETE. What next? How do you “win” the first 90 days? Do first impressions matter?

How did I “win” the first 90 days?

I didn’t necessarily win (more so survived) the first 90 days as I was busy with new issues I was not prepared for, such as attending behavioral health meetings and finishing chapter paperwork.  But, having a tentative plan prior to taking the guidon was key to surviving. As a commander, one can remain occupied with “problem Soldiers” or other things. Prior to taking command I sat with my commander who gave me clear priorities that were, “prepare for the Bn’s FTX and fix the morale.”  I made sure to devote duty hours to those priorities while working all the other things at the end of the day. Specifically, I developed PT competitions, ensured monthly award and promotion ceremonies, streamlined NCOERs, and planned a FRG event. Completing these “quick wins” while working on the “big rocks” ensured I survived the first 90 days.

Discussion questions.

1. What was your biggest challenge in the first 90 days? What did /did you not do to overcome it?
2. What “quick wins” did you develop or wish you would have developed?
3. What was one issue that your predecessor left out of the changeover?

Are you in the first 90 days of command or know someone who is? Message or contact me at George.l.gurrola.mil@mail.mil.