168th Mission Support Group begins Officer Development Program

Photo By Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey | During a new mentoring program, the 168th Mission Support Group Officer Professional Development attendees test their communication skills. The 168th Mission Support Group started a mentoring initiative for MSG officers, and the goal of the sessions is to provide guidance, leadership tools, and camaraderie for MSG officers. (Courtesy Photo)  

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE , ALASKA, UNITED STATES

12.15.2022

Courtesy Story

168th Wing

Recently the 168th Mission Support Group started a mentoring initiative for MSG officers and officer selects. The goal of the sessions is to provide guidance, leadership tools, and camaraderie for MSG officers.

Capt. Jeff Skaggs, 168th Force Support Squadron commander, led the last meet-up and focused on communication. With several exercises involving enthusiastic participation from all attendees, he emphasized the importance of conveying information concisely and effectively.

The immediate observations were what one person thought was a straightforward and obvious explanation, the receiver of the information interpreted the data very differently– often to some really funny results.

Skaggs wrapped up with this key takeaway, "a primary factor of effective communication is first understanding our own biases. Other people don’t share the same background, worldview, or cognitive patterns."

Skaggs gave everyone who attended the book “Everyone Communicates, Few Connect” by John C. Maxwell. In this book, Dr. Maxwell states, “if you’re going to connect, people need to know that you understand them.”
As a simple example – be AA (acronym aware)! Be careful using acronyms with brand new Airman. We should first remember to understand their background and know they’ll likely have no idea what we’re talking about; plus, they probably won’t ask for clarification. A simple remedy is to expand the acronym and then explain its purpose.

By the end of the conversation, you’ll have done two things. First, the Airman knows you care– you took time to understand them and meet them where they’re at, and two, you’ve given them the knowledge to make them better at their job, and they will also feel more familiar with their environment.

The MSG officer meetings will occur over drills. We’re all looking forward to connecting with our peers and exploring various leadership principles.

• Date Taken: 12.15.2022
• Date Posted: 12.15.2022 12:46
• Story ID: 435263
• Location: EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE , ALASKA, US