1.
SSgt Granger tells his students, “Whenever you deliver your message, you must ensure your communication is effective. You do this by determining the purpose of communication, preparing the communication, and lastly, deliver the message. SSgt Granger’s comments BEST explain the _____________.
Correct Answer
B. pHases of effective communication
Explanation
This scenario best illustrates the phases of effective
communication, According to the Communication Skills chapter there are three
broad phases which are diagnose the communication(determine the general
purpose), prepare the communication, and lastly deliver the message
2.
SMSgt Lannen, squadron superintendent of civil engineering, forwarded the commander’s Physical Training Policy Memorandum to all flight chiefs in the shop. In the email he stated, “Brief the new policy to your subordinates as soon as possible. In addition, make sure that the personnel on leave or TDY are briefed as soon as they return. SMSgt Lannen’s action’s BEST illustrate ___________.
Correct Answer
B. Downward Communication
Explanation
This scenario best illustrates downward communication which
according to the Communication Skills Chapter normally begins with the
organizationâs upper level of management and filters down through the chain of
command(SMSgt Lannen, squadron superintendent of civil engineering,
forwarded the commanderâs Physical Training Policy Memorandum to all flight
chiefs in the shop).
3.
MSgt Ottmo noticed that some of his crew members were relying on their memorization of procedures instead of following technical orders. Despite engine runs and planes launching, he holds a meeting on the flight line to address the problem. After the meeting several people expressed frustration because they barely heard anything MSgt Ottmo said.” MSgt Ottmo’s ____________ will MOST likely _________ mission effectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Misunderstanding of organizational barriers; hinder
Explanation
This scenario best illustrate MSgt Ottmosâs misunderstanding of
organizational barriers. According to the communicator skills chapter
organizational barriers are: duty schedules, floor layouts, jet engine noise
(âŚDespite engine runs and planes launching, he holds a meeting on the flight
line to address the problemâŚ.. several people expressed frustration because
they barely heard), operations tempo, and improper management.
4.
After another local village is mistakenly attacked, a reporter approaches SSgt Tubblewith questions regarding the faulty targeting systems used on today’s rocket systems.Tubble responds, “Although I may not work directly with munitions, I am confident in ourweapons system technologies; further, I support all efforts that provide our enemies amiserable death.” Within days the paper releases comments; Twitter, Facebook, and similarsites explode with hate mail toward the USAF and temporarily interrupt the mission.SSgt Tubble’s comments BEST illustrate ineffective ______ and its impact on missioneffectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. Media engagement
Explanation
This is ineffective media engagement because, according to the
Culture of Engagement portion of the Supervisory Communication lesson, SSgt
Tubbleâs statement violates two of the âdoâsâ which include discussing only
matters of which you have direct knowledge of and avoid repeating or using
âcolor wordsâ that may have a negative connotation such as âmassacreâ,
âscandalâ, âdeathsâ, âcorruptionâ, etc. These induce overly strong, emotional
reactions and may be counterproductive to your objectives.
5.
While on her favorite blog site, SrA Allen, a former model, uploads a picture takenduring a recent interview. In the photograph, she is wearing a tight “I Love NY” t-shirtwith her ABU pants. Within days, she receives hundreds of positive responses to her post.SrA Allen’ actions _____ and will MOST likely have a ________ impact on publicperception
Correct Answer
B. Violate social media guidelines; negative
Explanation
SrA Allen violated social media guidelines, which according to
the Culture of Engagement portion of the Supervisory Communication lesson,
prohibit posting photos showing improper wear of the uniform. Because
military members are on duty 24/7, 365 days a year, this violation of good order
and discipline could negatively impact the publicâs perception of the militaryâs
professionalism.
6.
A1C Ivey asks SSgt Johnson, “What is the best way to write a talking paper. SSgt Johnson replies “Make sure you use bullet statements that are concise with one concept that serves a purpose. This will help keep you on track while you’re writing.” SSgt Johnson’s comments BEST explain the ____________.
Correct Answer
A. Single idea bullet statement
Explanation
This scenario best illustrates the single idea bullet. According to the
Supervisory Writing chapter, the single idea bullet is a concise written statement of
a single idea or concept that is typically used for Talking Papers, Point Papers, and
Bullet Background Papers.
7.
Before submitting an Enlisted Performance Report for review, MSgt Wilson makes sure the information he uses is correct and truthful. He is careful not to exaggerate the truth or embellish the facts because he believes that falsifying the truth hurts his subordinates, and damages his credibility as a supervisor. MSgt Wilson’s actions BEST illustrate ______________ and its impact on his effectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Accuracy
Explanation
This scenario best illustrates accuracy. According to the Supervisory
Writing chapter, âFor anything to be âaccurateâ it must be âcorrect.â People who
have the most trouble with accuracy are those who try to stretch the truth. Mild
exaggeration or embellishment of the facts is poison and is only a half-step away
from outright lying and falsifying the facts.â
8.
SSgt Maramba decided to reward one of his subordinates so he requested a Décor 6. He reviewed past performance reports for information to complete the decoration citation. Once the Décor 6 and the citation were completed, he forwarded them to CSS for review. After making several corrections to the document, the CSS forwarded it to the commander who promptly approved the decoration.SSgt Maramba’s _____________ will MOST likely ______________ his subordinate’s effectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. Effective use of types of narrative writing; enhance
Explanation
This scenario best illustrates SSgt Marambaâs effective use of types of narrative writing. According to the Supervisory Writing chapter, types of narrative writing include awards and recognitions. People or units who receive awards and decorations under this program must clearly demonstrate sustained and superior performance. To initiate the recommendation submission process, it is your responsibility as the supervisor to request, fill out, and submit a Recommendation for Decoration Printout (RDP- DĂCOR-6). In addition to accomplishing the DĂŠcor 6, you must then compose a decoration citation. (âŚ. âHe reviewed past performance reports for information to complete the decoration citation. Once the DĂŠcor 6 and the citation are completed, he forwarded them to CSS for reviewâ).
9.
After noticing an unusual change in SrA Dent’s behavior, SSgt Wilson decides to meet with him to discuss his observations. Hoping to keep the session centered on Dent and to eliminate distractions, he reserves a small conference room for two hours with permission to use it longer if needed. He then jots down a few questions to help him open the session and establish rapport with Dent. The scenario BEST illustrates an NCO accomplishing ________________.
Correct Answer
A. Pre-session activities only
Explanation
According to the Interpersonal Communication chapter, pre-session activities
include Diagnose (know why you are conducting this session) and Prepare (determine
approach and prepare the environment). SSgt Wilson diagnosed as evidenced by the
statement, ânoticing an unusual change in Dentâs behavior.â He determined his approach as
evidenced by the statement, âhoping to keep the session centered on Dentâ and he prepared
the environment as evidenced by the statement, âeliminate distractions, he reserves a small
conference room for two hours with permission to use it longerâ
10.
SSgt Bolden plans to hold a meeting with his work section about the low morale that hasbeen bringing down the mission lately. Up until last month, everyone enjoyed coming to workand doing his or her best on the job. Bolden thinks about it and realizes the change ineveryone’s demeanor must be from the new commander. Bolden realizes he must do somethingsoon before the morale takes a deeper plummet, so he decides to hold the meeting to let hispeople know he is always concerned about them and their welfare.SSgt Bolden’s _____________ will MOST likely ______________ his effectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Appropriate use of diagnosing; increase
Explanation
SSgt Bolden appropriately used diagnosing, as evidenced by ââŚthinks about it
and realizes the change in everyoneâs demeanor.â According to the Interpersonal
Communication chapter, diagnosing is âknowing why youâre conducting the session.â
11.
During A1C Hall’s initial feedback, SSgt Irvin says, “When working the customerservice desk, answer all phone calls before the third ring, politely identify yourself andthis unit, and offer assistance to each caller. Furthermore, because our nation and othercountries consider us professionals, we must strive for excellence in everything we do.Finally, if you fail to meet my expectations or to comply with all directives, you canexpect a swift response from me.”SSgt Irvin’s actions BEST illustrate _____________.
Correct Answer
A. Standards and discipline
Explanation
SSgt Cooperâs actions best illustrate standards and discipline,
which according to the Standards and Discipline chapter, includes preventive
and corrective discipline. Preventive discipline stops a problem from
happening before it starts. Examples of preventive discipline are initial
feedbacks, safety briefings, etc. Standards form the foundation for
expectations and discipline and they must be achievable/ attainable (answer
phone calls), specific (before the third ring), observable (before third
ringâŚ), and measurable: quality (politely)
12.
SSgt Vera is concerned about her subordinate, A1C Jackson. When he first arrived tothe unit, he was an eager self-starter and had plenty of questions during his initialfeedback to make sure he understood his supervisor’s line of acceptability. However,last week Jackson failed to complete his assignments by the deadline, causingproduction to fall. Vera waits and hopes he will self-correct. Today, Jackson missedanother important deadline. Fed up, Vera issues Jackson a letter of admonishment.SSgt Vera’s _____________ will MOST likely ______________ her effectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Inappropriate use of PDP; decrease
Explanation
According to the Standards and Discipline chapter,
counseling is the first step of the PDP. SSgt McCarty should have started
with either a verbal counseling or an LOC the first time Anderson failed to
meet standards (failed to complete assignments). Although supervisors
have flexibility for what level of PDP a supervisor can start with,
counseling should still be the first step in situations that are not
exceptionally severe. A1C Anderson will probably become distrusting of
his supervisor and the mission will likely suffer due to the deteriorated
relationship.
13.
SSgt Tolley is writing a performance report on SrA Folk, one of his customer servicerepresentatives. Tolley received information from Folk’s shift leader, reviewed Folk’straining records, and even spoke to some of his customers. Finally, he looked at Folk’squality assurance inspection results. Using all this information, he proceeded to composethe performance report.SSgt Tolley’s actions BEST illustrate ________ and their impact on NCOeffectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Indirect Observation and Checking Completed Products
Explanation
SSgt Tolley uses both indirect observation and checking a
completed product. According to the Performance Evaluation lesson, indirect
observation involves relying on someone else to provide you with information
about how your subordinate is performing (received information from Folkâs
shift leader). Checking a completed product involves reviewing products or
services and talking to customers who received the product or service. It also
includes staff assistance visits and assessments (QA inspection results).
14.
TSgt Smith is writing performance reports on two Airmen. Although he cannotactually observe the Airmen working because they work on another shift, he reviews theircompleted work and occasionally asks their shift supervisor for feedback on theirperformance. In the final report, he leaves out factors that do not contribute to performance,ignores nonessential elements of the job, and is careful not to give undue weight to isolatedincidents.TSgt Smith’s __________ will MOST likely __________ his effectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Appropriate use of evaluation principles; enhance
Explanation
According to the Performance Evaluation lesson, Evaluation
Principles include Methods of Monitoring (Direct, Indirect, Observing a
Completed Product/Service) and Common Pitfalls (relevancy errors: factors that
do not contribute to performance, nonessential elements of the job, and undue
weight elements). TSgt Smith monitors his Airmenâs performance as evidence
by the statements ââŚreviews their completed workâ and âdiscusses their
performance with their shift supervisor.â Smith also writes EPRs that do not
include factors that do not contribute to performance and nonessential elements
of the job nor give undue weight to isolated incidents. All of these actions are
appropriate and will MOST likely enhance, not hinder Smithâs effectiveness.
15.
During a feedback session with SrA Wiley, MSgt Campbell says, “Your coworkers andI have fielded too many calls from your creditors complaining about missed payments. Youand I discussed personal financial responsibility during your initial feedback. Your actionshave impacted this work center; therefore, to prevent further disruption, I expect you to takecare of this situation. Let’s discuss your options.” After working through an action plantogether, Campbell tells Wiley, “I think you have the potential, but this matter needs to behandled.”MSgt Campbell’s _________ will MOST likely _________ SrA Wiley’s effectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. Appropriate use of rehabilitative feedback; enhance
Explanation
According to the Performance Evaluation lesson, it is appropriate
to use rehabilitative feedback when subordinates violate a standard or fall below
the line of acceptability. In this scenario, SrA Wiley is having financial
problems (several vendors have called complaining about your missed
payments) that are impacting his duty performance (productivity decreases and
you are rude to your teammates). MSgt Campbell should use rehabilitative
feedback to bring Wileyâs behavior back within acceptable boundaries and
enhance Wileyâs effectiveness.
16.
While reading his newcomer’s orientation package, SSgt Rooney sees the statement,“In order to become the best public affairs office in the military, we need to advance publicunderstanding of the military, share information with the public, and represent the interestsof military journalists by instilling tradition, knowledge, and leadership in our journalists.”This statement BEST illustrates a _____________.
Correct Answer
C. Team mission and vision statement
Explanation
The statement illustrates a team mission and vision statement.
According to the Team Leader chapter, a mission statement defines the "where
and what" work centers, units, wings, etc. accomplish on a daily basis. A vision
statement considers what the organization wants to be (a preferred end state). It
can provide the âhow wellâ when it comes to accomplishing oneâs mission.
17.
As his team considers potential solutions for solving a long-term problem SSgt Clivehears SrA Staple say to A1C Lew, "Initially, I acted like your scheduling idea was toosimplistic, but the truth is I was jealous because I didn’t think of it. It’s actually a greatidea and I think we should try it right away.” Lew responds, “Thanks, I appreciate yourhonesty and I am glad we’re able work out our differences.” SSgt Clive chimes in with, “Ithink your cooperation will keep all of us from working 12-hour shifts and by continuingto develop your relationship, you are setting a good example for our new team members.”If this team remains in the ____stage, then its productivity will MOST likely________.
Correct Answer
C. Norming; remain high
Explanation
The team is in the Norming Stage during which, according to the
Team Leader chapter, is the stage when attitudes change (âŚidea was too
simplisticâŚactually a great idea team) ânormsâ are accepted, relationships
become more cooperative (âŚyour cooperation will keep all of us) and members
reconcile disputes (âŚable work out our differences). During this stage,
productivity is high.
18.
SSgt Burnham tells his coworker, “I wish I was still deployed. At least the leadershipof that joint unit understood the differences in personalities and the strengths andweaknesses of members from our sister services. No matter how difficult the mission, theywere aware of our emotions and feelings and despite the cultural differences, they alwaysfound a way to respect individual characteristics and to tap into what each person brought tothe mission. Their approach not only ensured mission success, it improved our appreciationfor one another and enhanced my understanding of others’ values and beliefs.”SSgt Burnham’s joint unit BEST illustrates ___________ impact on missioneffectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Social Sensitivity and its
Explanation
The scenario best illustrates Social Sensitivity, which, according to
the Diversity chapter, is genuinely internalizing the essence of diversity and seeking
ways to incorporate diversity in behaviors, daily routines, and operations. It includes
developing a keen awareness and understanding of othersâ emotions, feelings,
personality, temperaments, strengths, cultural differences, values, and beliefs in
order to better understand the individual characteristics of who we work with, what
each person brings to the mission, and to improve our appreciation and respect for
one another.
19.
As the new NCOIC, TSgt Milton reviews customer surveys and immediately calls awork center meeting. “This morning I will share my expectations for this team and discusshow we can assist one another,” says Milton. “I also need to know what you need andexpect from me that will help you accomplish your responsibilities more effectively. Forexample, do you need equipment, additional training, or help with a personal matter?”Cautiously SrA Brady asks, “I get the impression that you think our section is in need ofdrastic improvement. Is this true?” Milton replies, “Not exactly. I simply believe thatthere is a lot of untapped potential within this team.”TSgt Milton’s ________ will MOST likely ________ unit effectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Effective use of the FAIR Way; enhance
Explanation
TSgt Miltonâs effective use of the FAIR Way will MOST likely
enhance unit effectiveness. According to the Diversity chapter, the FAIR Way
includes Feedback (giving/receiving) about expectations, how to meet them, and
discovering what subordinates need (equipment/training/resources). Assistance is
making sure workers have what they need and its encouraging workers to assist one
another. Inclusion is making sure everyone has the opportunity to participate fully
in the workplace. Respect is recognizing each personâs unique value, contributions,
and potential to the organization.
20.
During an initial EPR feedback session, MSgt Aldo tells SSgt Alexander, “I expect youto know what your job is, how to do it, and to perform it to the best of your ability.Furthermore, I will accept nothing less than ethical behavior at all times and I expect NCOsto accept full responsibility for their actions. Finally, faithfulness, obedience, respectfulness,and initiative are important to me.”MSgt Aldo’s comments BEST explain _____________.
Correct Answer
C. Followership traits
Explanation
MSgt Aldoâs comments best explain followership traits which,
according to the Leader Influence chapter, include competence (know what your
job is, how to do it, and to perform it), integrity (ethical behaviorâŚaccept full
responsibility for their actions), loyalty (faithfulness, obedience, and
respectfulness), and initiative
21.
During a mid-term performance feedback session, TSgt Finn reminds SSgt Rafferty,“As I’ve said in the past, faithfulness to peers, subordinates, and to me is important. So isyour enthusiasm and motivation for taking the initiative. I appreciate your willingness tomake decisions, act on them, and accept responsibility for your decisions. Your actions seemto prompt your subordinates to always support the unit's mission with passion.”This scenario BEST illustrates _____________ and their impact on unit effectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. Leadership traits
Explanation
This scenario is about leadership traits, which according to the
Leader Influence chapter, include among others: loyalty (faithfulness to peers,
subordinates, and to me), energy (enthusiasm and motivation for taking the
initiative), and decisiveness (willingness to make decisions, etc.)
22.
SSgt Cordell tells his team, “I know the task before you is going to take a lot ofovertime. It will require personal sacrifice on your part; however, I believe you are up to thechallenge so expect a one-day pass when it’s all finished.”SSgt Cordell's use of ______ power will MOST likely__________ unit effectiveness.
Correct Answer
D. Position; enhance
Explanation
According to the Leader Influence chapter, position power includes
legitimate, reward, coercive, and connection and is derived from the position
within the organization. In this situation, SSgt Cordell uses his position as team
leader to promise a reward (one-day pass). The promise of a reward (effective use
of position power) will most likely increase subordinate commitment levels,
which in turn will enhance unit effectiveness.
23.
TSgt West contacts the Vehicle Distribution Flight and says, “I would like to requesta large truck to haul away some old office equipment.” The dispatcher on duty,SSgt Freeman replies, “I have one truck available, but you would need to return itby noon today so I can support another high-priority request.” West says, “Thatwon’t work. I’ll need it for at least two days.” After some thought Freeman says,“Could you wait until tomorrow? That way I could use the vehicle to support thisother requirement and you can use it for the rest of the week.” West tells Freeman,“I understand the position you’re in and will gladly stop by in the morning to signout the truck.”This scenario BEST illustrates the use of the _____________ strategy for negotiatingand its impact of NCO effectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Cooperate
Explanation
TSgt West and SSgt Freeman cooperate which, according to the
Introduction to Negotiating chapter, is useful when a party desires to achieve a
mutually satisfying outcome while simultaneously managing the relationship.
SSgt Freeman attempts to achieve a mutually satisfying outcome as evidence by
the statements, âCould you wait until tomorrow? That way I could use the
vehicle to support this other requirement (Freemanâs need) and allows you to use
it for the rest of the week (Westâs need).â West, in-turn, acknowledges the
challenge Freeman is facing (supporting West and a high-priority request) and
agrees to his offer, which supports not only the tasks at hand but the relationship
as well.
24.
After failing their Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI), SSgt Shire must prepareher work center for the re-inspection. After taking into account the experience ofthe Airmen she has available to help, she calls a team meeting and opens it bysaying, “We only have a few weeks left before the re-inspection and a passing scoreis absolutely necessary. Therefore, I have created a plan to review every item on theORI checklist. To accomplish this, I have assigned you to teams to work specificsections of the checklist.” Shire closed the meeting, answered a few questions, andreconciled a heated debate among the Airmen. Shortly after, she overhears a fewSenior Airmen complaining about their assigned tasks.SSgt Shire’s ____________, will MOST likely ___________ her effectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. Consideration of the who, stakes, and situation; enhance
Explanation
SSgt Shireâs consideration of the Who, the Stakes, and the
Situation will most likely enhance her effectiveness. According to the
Introduction to Negotiating chapter, the âWhoâ refers to people you are you
dealing with. The âStakesâ are what you stand to gain or loseâŚimportant/trivial.
The âSituationâ refers to the criticality of the situation (time-sensitive, life
threatening, etc.) SSgt Shire considered the âWhoâ as indicated by the
statement, âAfter taking into account the experience of the Airmen she has
available to helpâŚâ She considered the âStakesâ as indicated by the statement,
ââŚa passing score is absolutely necessary.â She considered the âSituationâ as
indicated by the statement, âWe only have a few weeks left before the reinspectionâŚâ
25.
Due to an upcoming mission change, the chief tells TSgt Abel to reclassify the skilllevel and security clearance of several positions. After a quick check with the manpoweroffice, Abel submits the proper document to request the chief’s changes. Several monthslater, new personnel with the right skills begin arriving just in time to help the squadronbegin its new mission.TSgt Abel’s submission BEST illustrate use of the __________ and its impact onmission effectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Authorization Change Request
Explanation
TSgt Abel used the Authorization Change Request (ACR),
which according to the Resource Stewardship lesson, âis a document
used to change (reclassify) attributes of positions listed on the Unit
Manpower Document when there is a change in mission.â
26.
SSgt Bose, the new NCOIC of Pharmacy Services, grows tired of her Airmencomplaining about their section’s outdated equipment. Realizing she has several unknown,unfunded requirements, she submits a request for funds to the unit’s resource advisor (RA)in October. Since Bose’s request is so thorough, the RA makes one minor change, andthen submits the request to the wing’s Budget Execution Review committee in January.The resource advisor’s ____________ will MOST likely ____________missioneffectiveness.
Correct Answer
C. Understanding of the budget cycle; enhance
Explanation
According to the Resource Stewardship lesson, the first Budget
Execution Review (BER) occurs during the 2nd Quarter (typically January) of the
Budget Cycle. The resource advisor (RA) clearly understands the budget cycle as
evidenced by her waiting until the 2nd Quarter of the Budget Cycle to submit SSgt
Boseâs request for funds. According to the Budget Cycle, Cost Centers begin
working the 1st BER (aka unknown, unfunded requests) in October for submission
by the RA in January. Therefore, the RAâs actions will most likely result in the
pharmacy receiving the funds necessary to purchase new equipment.
27.
TSgt Rivera, the NCOIC of Air Freight Management asks SSgt Graves, “Do youknow why it takes so long to get our expedited cargo inspected?” SSgt Graves replies,“Apparently, the inspection team doesn’t like their new government vehicle and wouldrather walk to each aircraft on the flightline.” Frustrated Rivera says, “That’s ridiculous!So instead of recognizing the need for a vehicle, they would rather walk around theflightline, causing our freight and aircraft to wait.” TSgt Rivera immediately contacts theinspection team and instructs them to use their assigned vehicle.The inspection team’s actions BEST illustrate _______ impact on missioneffectiveness.
Correct Answer
A. A category of waste and its
Explanation
According to the Continuous Improvement chapter, there are
eight types of waste. Waiting is one type of waste, which is whenever goods are
not moving, or being processed. The inspection teamâs actions best illustrate
this concept as evidenced by the expedited cargo waiting for inspection and
inspectors are waiting on a vehicle to conduct their inspection
28.
MSgt Berry, evaluations section NCOIC, says to SSgt Renzi, “Fix our problems withthe overdue EPRs ASAP!” Renzi tells her airman, SrA Embry, “ We’ve been told to fix theEPR process, and here’s how we’re going to do it…call together all the unit EPR monitors,solicit their ideas and opinions, cut the waste, and standardize the process.MSgt Berry’s ___________ will MOST likely ___________ mission effectiveness.
Correct Answer
B. Appropriate use of directive change; enhance
Explanation
In this situation, MSgt Berry used directive change appropriately, because
according to the Continuous Improvement chapter, this type should be used when, 1)
change must be implemented quickly and 2) subordinate input is not required or sought.
MSgt Berryâs actions will most likely enhance the mission because the change is
necessary to prevent mission failure.