It takes great people to build great organizations

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. John Specht
  • 23rd Fighter Squadron
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (AFPN) --  Not all organizations are created equal. Some units have something special. Their members seem remarkably happy, the mission always gets accomplished and their names are heard whenever the very best are mentioned.

In my 17 years of service, I’ve noticed a few qualities that are common to many of the outstanding units I have either observed or been fortunate enough to have been a part of. People. Great organizations are always composed great people. There is no shortage of great people within the Air Force family, yet great organizations have a way of grooming, attracting and keeping quality people.

One of the best ways to make somebody great in his or her profession is by providing the absolute best training available. In the very best units, people are provided with the right training at the right time and are given the right tools to complete the mission.

It doesn’t really matter if the training is formal or informal, initial or follow up, one-time or continuous. The bottom line is that people will never be competent and self-confident unless they’ve been given the proper training. Their proficiency and confidence enhances their performance and reflects well on the organization. They look good and the unit looks good.

When highly trained people become the trademark of the unit, the unit quickly gets a reputation for being one of the best in the business. Great units are full of people who display loyalty and pride.

It is sometimes difficult to determine if loyalty and pride create great units, or if great units promote loyalty and pride. Suffice it to say, loyalty and pride are contagious attributes, and great organizations have little trouble attracting and developing great folks who display these qualities.

The best units also understand the importance of effective communication. Think about the myriad ways effective communication enhances a unit.

Good units establish goals and ensure their people know what these goals are and how they’ll be accomplished. Good units ensure that everyone understands the mission and where the unit is trying to go.

They make it a point to recognize their folks, both formally and informally, to ensure people get the credit they deserve. They provide formal and informal feedback and ensure people understand their strengths and weaknesses. People are aware of how to improve their performance and contributions to the unit.

Good units also provide their folks with the best information available on deployments, work schedules and contingencies. This enhances long-range planning and creates stability at home and in the workplace.

If you are fortunate enough to be part of a great organization, congratulations. If not, see what you can contribute to your unit to start moving it in the right direction.

People should get the training they deserve, and ensure those who work with and for them do the same. Know how to do the job well, and continue to get the training and experience needed to continually improve.

Know what it is that the unit is trying to accomplish. Understand your role, no matter how seemingly insignificant, in accomplishing the mission.

Promote and demand long-range planning and stability. Be willing to compliment and reward those who do a great job. Expect and provide feedback.

And finally, be proud and be loyal. Your organization is just that -- it’s yours! It is a reflection of you and of those who work with you. Be willing to make it better. Be willing to make it great.