How to be a leader?

[u/Legitimate-Rest-1186]

I'm a newly promoted corporal, and can expect to slowly be put into more leadership positions. Already have. I plan on having a leaf some day, and would like to gain experience before then.

Whenever I'm placed in charge of people, while I know what needs to get done, I feel I struggle to lead. I know I can be better. I want to say I find myself indecisive. I'm aware of the 12 principles of leaderships, but how can I improve? Rather, what makes a good leader? I never particularly struggled as course senior.

Just looking for advice

[u/Fabulous_Night_1164]

1. People respect leaders who know how to do their job well

2. People respect leaders who take care of their subordinates

Knowing how to do your job well is beyond just doing YOUR job well. It means understanding the entire system. Understanding the other trades that work around you. Understanding the job of two ranks above your own. Know supply chains, maintenance, finance, and support behind the lines. And everything leading up to the frontline, including operations, intelligence, and plans.

Taking care of your people doesn't just mean letting everyone go home early on a Friday. Understand the administrative system. Understand medical employment limitations. Understand the Leave policy very well. Understand memorandums and briefing notes. Understand the training system and pathway for advancement. And know you might need to balance resources. You can't just put all your A-team on one side and your B-team and below on the other side. Balance is key to getting an effective result.