The definition of accountability is taking action, making decisions, and being accountable. It is crucial to accept responsibility when you are in a leadership position. Leaders will accept all responsibilities for those who are accountable and those who fail to perform their duties. In many ways, being accountable in a leadership position can be crucial. Leaders must be accountable in many areas, including trust, financial savings, and confidence. Leadership that is accountable in the workplace can help to fuel success for their organization.
As a leader in the Army, trust is crucial. A Soldier will be able to dedicate his time to a task and still be responsible for it. In that situation, Soldiers and individuals can gain trust from the people who have been appointed to them. Trust between the Soldiers and their leaders is more than just a bond. “At present, the Army has a consensus that trust is essential for unit effectiveness and is a foundational component to mission command” (Holmberg. Salazar. Herd. Lane. & Orslene. 2019). Trust is about perception. While Soldiers might trust their leader when they are at work, it is possible for them to distrust that leader in an unfamiliar environment. This can impact Soldiers’ trust. Leaders can build trust with Soldiers by using the three C’s (Competence. Caring. and Communication). This allows for accountability to be combined. Soldiers will be more open to accepting responsibility for their mistakes without fear. Accountability is a trustworthy and responsible role. This is linked to integrity, where leaders take responsibility for their actions if they fail.
Accountability is a way to save time and money in the Army. Being accountable and responsible for the actions of soldiers and leaders can help you make better use of your time and money. This allows more time and money to be used to find solutions rather than worrying about the problems that may or will occur. When it comes to planning and mission success, accountability can help you save time and money. Leadership that uses accountability to save money and time can reduce the time wasted on nonproductive tasks. “However you define accountability, it’s an absolute necessity good organization and discipline, which are vital to mission achievement.” (Rickey 2012). Leaders will be able to spend more time and money on improving Soldiers. This could also result in better gear and equipment. This will allow Soldiers to spend more time on their daily tasks and job training, which can lead to improved performance. This will result in improved performance and more motivated soldiers. They will spend more time focusing on positive surroundings and may be able to return home sooner if they manage their time well. Spending more time with their families and doing the things they love. Happier families for Soldiers, leaders, as well as the unit. This will encourage leaders to be accountable for their Soldiers’ time and money.
Accountability in the Army can help to build confidence. If accountability is done correctly, it will encourage confidence in Soldiers as they achieve their goals. When the Soldiers feel confident, the organization encourages criticism and acknowledges them. This allows Soldiers to take their own decisions and feels valued. “NCOs must be accountable. According to AFI 36-2618 (The Enlisted Force Structure), NCOs must recognize and reward individuals whose military conduct or duty performance clearly exceeds established standards. (Rickey 2012). This will give Soldiers confidence and appreciation for their work. This can improve performance in assigned tasks.
As a leader in the Army, it is essential to build accountability. Leaders do this by being accountable to their subordinates. Leaders must encourage more trust and less fear among their Soldiers and subordinates. Individuals will be more accountable and held accountable for their actions, whether they succeed or fail. Leaders can also be held accountable for saving money and time. This ensures that resources are used effectively when planning and achieving goals. Leaders can instill confidence in Soldiers and subordinates, allowing them to make their own decisions and appreciate their leadership. Leaders who are accountable help their organization succeed.
Refer to
- Holmberg, M., Salazar, A., Herd, J., Lane, B., & Orslene, N. (2019, May 20). A Culture of Trust. Retrieved from Army University Press: https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/NCO-Journal/Archives/2019/May/A-Culture-of-Trust/#bio
- Rickey M. (2012/12/13). Senior NCO defines accountability. Retrieved from JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON: https://www.jber.jb.mil/News/Commentaries/Display/Article/292895/senior-nco-defines-accountability/