TC 1-05
Command and Staff
mission and prepare answers to those questions before they are asked.
Effective staff officers know the commander's intent two levels up
and operate within their own commander's intent. They do not
hesitate to take advantage of opportunities. In the commander's
absence, they exercise the authority delegated to them to achieve the
commander's intent. When exercising subordinates' initiative, staff
officers report their actions to the commander as soon as possible.
Creativity
Commanders are always looking for new and innovative solutions to
problems. Thus, effective staff officers are creative in researching
solutions to difficult and unfamiliar situations. If they cannot
recommend a course of action (COA) in one direction or area, they
find an alternative. As team players, staff officers draw on the
creativity of all staff and command members. Staff officers brief
solutions, not problems. They always give the commander a
recommended COA.
Flexibility
Staff officers require the maturity and presence of mind to keep from
becoming overwhelmed by changing requirements and priorities.
Commanders often change their minds or redirect the command after
receiving additional information or a new mission. They may not
share with the staff the reason for such a change. Staff officers
remain flexible and adjust to changes. They master setting priorities
when there are more tasks to accomplish than time allows. They learn
to juggle multiple commitments simultaneously. It is essential that
staff officers meet suspenses; the commander and other staff
members depend on their contributions to decisionmaking. Staff
officers meet suspenses or request a time or priority adjustment in
advance.
3-20
10 May 2005
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