I'm going to the E-6 board on Tuesday and curious as to how to handle the question of my long term career goal. I don't plan on staying in the Army and plan on getting out in 2 years. When stating my bio and goals should I include my plan as to getting out? Do you think this would have any ill-effect on them recommending me since I don't plan on staying in?

I'm curious if anyone else has told their CSM in a board that they dont plan on staying in. I'm sure that isnt what he would want to hear from someone looking to get promoted to SSG.

we had a guy go as an e4 to the sgt board and say he was getting out, he failed. The CSM said there was no point in promoting him... i think it was bs.. i would just leave that out of everything... tell them what they want to hear!

p.s. long term career goal-SGM of the Army....

Yeah I wouldn't come straight out and say that in two years I'll bet ETSing. Be evasive in your answer, ie - In two years I hope to have a degree so that later on in life I could pursue 'fill in the blank' that would fit me well.

I've also witnessed people either kicked out or failed because of that answer or one that resembles it.

Goodluck.

When I was attending my E-5 board, I planned on submitting a packet for OCS within the following year and mentioned that I had a desire to go in my promotion board bio. While I didn't fail the board (probably should have) I did get a lot of flack (for lack of a better word) from the CSM, like "Well, what the hell are you doing here, then?"

Needless to say, the point of going to the board is to prove that you a prepared for the challenges that lie and wait in the next higher rank, and by telling them that you plan on leaving the Army, they've got no reason to promote you anyways.

Do a little bit of "boot licking"; I wouldn't normally tell someone to do that (and it's generally not appreciated) but tell them what they want to hear if you really want that promotion. If not, inform them of your real goals, forfeit your recommendation, and leave your slot for someone who wants not only your promotion but a career in the army.

Just say your long term goal is to finish your degree and further your education. It doesn't hurt to say that you'd like to try and reach E-9.

Just follow your heart.....LMAO!!! Seriously though, it wouldn't be a bad idea to give the board members and the CSM a warm and fuzzy that you someday hope to ascend to the rank of SGM. As much as I hate it, I'm slowly coming to the realization that the "dog and pony show" is a necessary evil of the Army, as I'm sure you are well aware. Just think about how many SSG and SFC shave their mustache off for their DA photo. A lot of what we do in Garrison is provide the higher ups and any one they deem VIP's, the perception that everything is peachy. If it looks and sounds good, then it's good. That's all you're doing at the board, looking and sounding good. Give the CSM the perception that you will continue your Army career, I'm almost certain it will work in your favor.

I always got looked at funny because I said "Retire as a Chief Warrant Officer."