The Modern War Institute (MWI) posted Gen. Thomas’ “13 tips for new lieutenants from the SOCOM commander” (you can find it here: https://mwi.usma.edu/13-tips-new-lieutenants-socom-commander/ ).
While all tips are applicable to leaders at all levels, I was struck by his first tip that discusses an LTs approach to the first meeting with the first platoon sergeant. His first tip says:

“Shut the door, tell him or her, “I think I’ve had a pretty good preparation to be a PL, but before I do anything, how about you tell me what you expect of me?” If they are good, and most of them are very good—and you aren’t the first or last PL they’ll have the privilege of serving with—they’ll say, “Be our leader, make the tough decisions, don’t try to be our buddy (we may eventually like you, but that’s not the objective), enforce the standards.” (And, while they may never say it, you can take to the bank that they will strive to never let you fail). You may be an LT, but you are their LT.”

When I met my first sergeant (1SG) it was very formal and business-like. After all, he had been in the position for nearly 9 months and knew the organization well (he wanted to get down to business). While we knew each other before, we didn’t really sit down to discuss our partnership forward. As such, I took a more deliberate approach to our first meeting having completed the required counseling. Similar to Gen. Thomas’ advice, the final topic of our first meeting were his expectations of me as a commander.

Discussion questions (discuss one, two, or all!)
1. What are general thoughts about Gen. Thomas’ tip on approaching the first platoon sergeant?
2. How did your first meeting go with your first NCO or 1SG/Detachment NCO?
3. What would you do different and what advice would you give new commanders?

4.  What questions (or comments) would you have to new commanders?

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