JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Throughout my years as a supervisor, one question my subordinates often ask and deservedly so is, "What do I need to do to get a "5" on my EPR?"
Throughout my career, I've attempted to ensure my EPR rating accurately reflected my efforts.
I would initiate discussions with my supervisors to know exactly where I stood at all times. The only thing I've ever expected from them is honesty and I've been fortunate to have that.
We should always ask this simple question, "If you had to rate me today, what would I receive?"
This requires the supervisor to be upfront and straightforward, and it forces them to give meaningful feedback. For any rating less than a "5," develop a plan for improvement with your supervisor. With proper feedback, no Airman should ever be surprised at the rating they are given.
Simply put, are you talking to your supervisors? Feedback should never be limited to an initial and midterm only. You need to do it at least every 60 to 90 days, even if you believe yourself to be a stellar performer.
Supervisors and subordinates must always maintain open communication. If this is not taking place then you may find yourself with a rating that is well below your expectation.
If you are doing what is expected of you while merely coming to work every day then you might have just defined yourself as a "3," an "average" Airman. Everyone starts as "average," but it's up to you to prove otherwise with your performance.
As long as your rater is doing their job, which is reporting a fair evaluation of your performance, you will receive the rating that reflects your attitude and effort. Yet at the same time, supervisors must not inflate the system by giving someone a rating they do not deserve. In doing so, they have provided a disservice to those going above and beyond.
At the end of the day, the ultimate responsibility for a member's career depends on each individual Airman. Take control of your future instead of leaving it up to fate or someone else. You and you alone must take the initiative to fix whatever shortfalls may exist. Always remember to ask yourself, "Where do I need to improve?"