Title: Embracing Leadership: How JLBC Cadet Corps PLs and PSGs Can Successfully Run Their Platoons
Introduction
The Junior Leadership and Basic Cadet (JLBC) program is designed to develop young men and women into future leaders. As the new leaders take charge of their platoons, they may experience feelings of inexperience or doubt, mainly if it is their first time in a leadership position at the platoon level. In this article, we discuss how JLBC leaders can overcome these challenges by relying on the JLBC values and adopting effective leadership strategies.
JLBC Values: A Guiding Force for New Leaders
The JLBC program instills seven core values that are instrumental in shaping the character of its leaders. These values are Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. By adhering to these values, new Platoon Leaders (PLs) and Platoon Sergeants (PSGs) can establish themselves as reliable and capable leaders.
Taking Responsibility and Listening to Subordinates
As new leaders, PLs and PSGs must immediately take responsibility for their platoons and demonstrate accountability to their higher headquarters. This includes understanding their roles and responsibilities, setting expectations, and ensuring their platoon is prepared to accomplish its mission.
In addition to taking responsibility, new leaders should actively listen to their subordinate leaders, seeking their input and addressing any concerns. This approach not only fosters open communication within the platoon but also helps identify potential improvement areas.
Trusting Instincts and Addressing Issues
New PLs and PSGs should learn to trust their instincts. They are duty-bound to delve deeper into the issue if something seems wrong. This helps prevent potential problems and demonstrates their commitment to the well-being of the platoon.
Developing an Action Plan for Improvement
During their first 100 days in a leadership position, new PLs and PSGs may identify areas that require change or improvement. Unless an issue is unsafe, illegal, or immoral and needs immediate attention, they should work with their platoon to develop a well-thought-out action plan. This collaborative approach ensures that the entire platoon is invested in the improvement process and allows for the gradual implementation of changes.
Conclusion
Taking on a leadership role for the first time can be challenging. Still, new JLBC Cadet Corps PLs and PSGs can successfully run their platoons by adhering to the core values, taking responsibility, listening to their subordinates, trusting their instincts, and developing action plans for improvement. By doing so, they will grow as leaders and contribute significantly to the overall success and growth of the JLBC program.