JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
"Developing Airmen" is a common phrase in conversation today. It is a simple statement with a broad, complex definition. Development is a deliberate process requiring a combination of approaches. Some of the most effective methods of development are mentorship, military or civilian education, and engaged supervision. One of the best methods, though often under-utilized, is performance feedback.
Performance feedback is a powerful tool that supervisors must use to develop subordinates. Additionally, it is the right of all ratees to be formally introduced to their responsibilities through the use of these feedback sessions. This applies, whether you supervise Airmen arriving at their first duty station or a seasoned non-commissioned officer simply moving into your section. It must be a continuous process throughout our careers. Without a proper foundation of expectations and accurate feedback, we become passive supervisors forcing our Airmen to determine for themselves how they are meeting standards and progressing.
For all of the specifics related to formal feedback we can reference Air Force Instruction 36-2406, Officer and Enlisted Evaluation Systems. To start, here are some simple tips to help provide Airmen the most common types of feedback: Airman basics through technical sergeants are required to have initial and midterm feedbacks. The initial is done within 60 days of assignment to a new rater and the midterm falls at the midpoint of the reporting period which is approximately 180 days. When an EPR is written, the ratee needs a formal feedback within the 60 days preceding the closeout. If at any time the ratee requests an official feedback, the supervisor must provide that within 30 days as long as it has been at least 60 days since the last formal feedback. Of course, supervisors may conduct formal feedback any time they deem it necessary.
Formal feedback cannot, on its own, be expected to fully develop our Airmen.
However, when used properly, it will provide the foundation for success that we owe the future generations of the Air Force.