Write A 400-500 Word Substantive Journal Entry ✓ Solved

write A 400 500 Word Substantive Journal Entry

Write a word substantive journal entry describing the analytical view. Describe how you extend the Commanders vision and influence in your organization as a future SGM/CSM? As you journal this response you should consider how you can use the concepts of power and influence to implement your commander’s vision. Think about how you assist in the seven step process and what source of power (position/ personal) would best serve your purpose as a SGM/CSM. Capture ideas and reflect on personal experiences pertaining to the module content.

Journaling is a continuous reflective exercise designed to assist students in developing contextual relevance of subject matter for practical application. It also provides instructors with insight to student understanding of key concepts. Reflective exercises (journaling) are essential in the development process. Journal entries will assist in constructing the course capstone project. Learners are expected use the journals to gather, record, and store select evidence and capture reflective thoughts relevant to their learning and continued growth.

Students will capture SMC Capstone-related information, discussion question summaries, topic-specific notes, and/or reflective observations that are considered significant in their continued growth and progress as a senior military leader. Journal entries at the end of each semester will contain a response to the following reflection question and students may expand from there as desired.

Paper For Above Instructions

As a future Sergeant Major/Command Sergeant Major (SGM/CSM), my role in extending the commander's vision and influence within my organization is pivotal to the success of the military unit. Leaders at the senior enlisted level serve as the bridge between the commander's intent and the execution by soldiers, thus requiring a nuanced understanding of influence, power, and strategic communication. This journal delineates my approach to embodying and extending the commander's vision through effective use of power dynamics, the seven-step leadership process, and personal influence strategies.

Understanding and leveraging the concepts of power—whether position-based or personal—is fundamental to influencing organizational outcomes. Position power derives from formal authority conferred by the role, such as the authority inherent in the SGM/CSM position within the military hierarchy. Personal power, on the other hand, stems from individual attributes like expertise, charisma, or interpersonal skills. As a future SGM/CSM, I recognize that a balanced utilization of both power sources enhances my ability to influence subordinates positively and facilitate the commander's vision effectively.

The seven-step leadership process—clarify intent, analyze the environment, develop a plan, communicate, execute, evaluate, and adjust—is essential in implementing organizational change and aligning efforts with strategic objectives. In practice, I would focus on clarity of the commander's intent and transparent communication, ensuring that every level of leadership understands their role in fulfilling the vision. My personal influence would be concentrated on building trust, demonstrating competence, and fostering cohesion among team members. These attributes serve as sources of personal power that reinforce positional authority and motivate subordinate engagement.

An example from my previous experience illustrates this approach. During a regimented training exercise, I took the initiative to clarify the mission objectives with junior leaders, actively engaging their feedback to refine the plan. By demonstrating expertise and fostering a participatory environment, I gained credibility and trust, which facilitated smooth execution. This experience underscored how personal power—derived from competence and interpersonal skills—augments formal authority and produces tangible results.

Moreover, I intend to extend my influence through mentoring and developing subordinates, aligning their personal growth with organizational goals. This strategy not only enhances team capabilities but also creates a culture of continuous improvement consistent with the commander's overarching vision. Recognizing individual motivations and applying tailored influence tactics, such as inspirational appeals or rational persuasion, can significantly impact subordinate buy-in and commitment.

In conclusion, as a future senior enlisted leader, my role in extending the commander's vision hinges on a strategic application of power and influence, adherence to the seven-step leadership process, and fostering a culture of trust and accountability. Reflecting on personal experiences illustrates the importance of competence, credibility, and relational skills in influencing organizational success. This ongoing process of reflection and development is vital in preparing to serve as an effective leader capable of translating strategic intent into operational excellence.

References

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