JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Did you know in many cases, Airmen decide to leave the Air Force because they don't have all the facts they need to make informed career choices? In accordance with AFI 36-2618, paragraph 4.1.14 and AFPAM 36-2241, paragraph 9.8.7, supervisors are required to provide career counseling to subordinates on the benefits, entitlements and opportunities available in an Air Force career. Additionally, career counseling occurs in conjunction with performance feedback or when an Airman comes up for review under the Selective Reenlistment Program.
Whether you're a first-time supervisor, or have been one for many years, you have numerous avenues to look for the basic information needed to conduct successful career counseling sessions. More importantly, it is vital to ensure you give your Airmen accurate, credible information with which they can base their career decisions.
There are many tools that can assist supervisors in accomplishing effective counseling. One is the Air Force Compensation Fact Sheet which provides a variety of information on educational benefits, entitlements, retirement pay, post-service benefits and opportunities available in an Air Force career. Airmen can use this information to understand and respond to their needs and concerns.
The bottom line; Airmen join the Air Force for specific reasons and goals, as well as with specific expectations in mind. It's our responsibility as leaders to understand those expectations and ensure they are being met. When you effectively career counsel, it promotes a common understanding of the rewards of serving in the Air Force.
Encourage a sense of pride in our Airmen. We're part of the world's greatest Air Force accomplishing amazing things around the globe every day.