This topic was actually the one that drove me to the forums originally. Though I was a PSG at one point, I was never counseled as one. So when I was about to take a platoon, I wanted to do it right.

Like @logisticus mentioned, I would come at it like a two way conversation. Not only should you lay out your expectations and specify any areas of special emphasis/week points that you identified during your initial assessment (basically the first week to 30 days), but you should also lay out what your PSG can expect from you. That way it becomes a contract, something you are both held to.

I was a fan of the memo-format, because it allowed me to get into the finer details of my expectations. However I did combine it with the “formality” of a 4856, just in case the paperwork was needed at some later point. Attached is a completed one for my PSG who deployed with me, it consisted of a 4856, my memo/PSG counseling, as well as my leadership philosophy (which I gave to all of my Soldiers). It seems like a lot, but my PSG really appreciated that it was very clear as to what was expected, but not to the point of being “too much.”

I’m attaching it so you (others) can take a look.