Counseling Soldiers, what technique do you use??

Question

I break things into categories, like PT and vehicle maintenance and classes etc etc, what is your opinion on a good EOM counseling (i think negative counselings are all pretty much the same Army wide)

Answer 1

Nana gave a great overall approach.  To add on a couple things:

Be 100% honest (no sugar coating)

Have regulatory guidance available if the topic is covered (in an informative approach, not threatening)

Follow up later on at a time discussed with the counselee.

Counseling normally falls into one of three categories dependent upon on the accrued or displayed Army Wisdom:

Directive

Non-Directive

Combined

I like to have my guys tell me how they've been doing and I'll interject as required...I learn a lot about them that way.

Answer 2

An effective counseling section has 4 parts:

1.  Point out the soldier's positive attributes

2.  Discuss any negative situations

3.  Discuss ways to improve

4.  End on a positive note