Mastering the Army OER (Officer Evaluation Report) form is crucial for any officer looking to advance in their career. The OER form is used to evaluate an officer's performance and potential, and it plays a significant role in determining their future assignments, promotions, and career trajectory. In this article, we will explore five ways to master the Army OER form and increase your chances of receiving a positive evaluation.
Understanding the Army OER Form
The Army OER form is a standardized document used to evaluate an officer's performance and potential. The form is divided into several sections, including:
-
Administrative Data
+ This section includes personal and administrative information about the officer, such as their name, rank, and assignment. -
Duty Description
+ This section provides a brief description of the officer's duties and responsibilities. -
Duty Performance
+ This section evaluates the officer's performance in their assigned duties. -
Leadership and Potential
+ This section evaluates the officer's leadership abilities and potential for future assignments.
Way #1: Set Clear Goals and Objectives
To master the Army OER form, it's essential to set clear goals and objectives. At the beginning of each rating period, sit down with your rater and discuss your goals and expectations. This will help ensure that you're both on the same page and that you're working towards the same objectives.
-
Examples of Clear Goals and Objectives:
+ Complete a certain number of training hours or courses + Improve unit performance in a specific area + Take on additional responsibilities or leadership roles
Way #2: Keep a Performance Journal
Keeping a performance journal is an excellent way to track your progress and accomplishments throughout the rating period. This will help you to:
-
Identify Areas for Improvement
+ Recognize areas where you need to improve and develop a plan to address them. -
Document Your Accomplishments
+ Keep a record of your achievements and successes, including any awards or recognition you receive. -
Examples of Performance Journal Entries:
+ Completed a difficult project or task + Received positive feedback from a supervisor or peer + Took on additional responsibilities or leadership roles
Way #3: Seek Feedback and Coaching
Seeking feedback and coaching from your rater and other supervisors is essential to mastering the Army OER form. This will help you to:
-
Identify Blind Spots
+ Recognize areas where you may be struggling or need improvement. -
Develop a Growth Plan
+ Create a plan to address areas for improvement and develop new skills. -
Examples of Feedback and Coaching:
+ Regular meetings with your rater to discuss your performance + Seeking feedback from peers or mentors + Participating in training or development courses
Way #4: Use the Right Language and Terminology
Using the right language and terminology is crucial when completing the Army OER form. This will help you to:
-
Clearly Communicate Your Accomplishments
+ Use specific examples and metrics to demonstrate your achievements. -
Use Army-Specific Language and Terminology
+ Use language and terminology that is familiar to Army raters and reviewers. -
Examples of Army-Specific Language and Terminology:
+ Using terms like "unit cohesion" and "leadership by example" + Describing your accomplishments in terms of their impact on the unit or mission
Way #5: Review and Edit Your OER
Finally, it's essential to review and edit your OER carefully before submitting it. This will help you to:
-
Ensure Accuracy and Completeness
+ Double-check that all information is accurate and complete. -
Use Clear and Concise Language
+ Use language that is easy to understand and free of jargon or technical terms. -
Examples of Reviewing and Editing Your OER:
+ Having a peer or mentor review your OER for feedback + Using a checklist to ensure that all sections are complete and accurate
Now that you've learned the five ways to master the Army OER form, it's time to put these tips into practice. Remember to set clear goals and objectives, keep a performance journal, seek feedback and coaching, use the right language and terminology, and review and edit your OER carefully. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to receiving a positive evaluation and advancing your career in the Army.
We hope this article has been helpful in providing you with the knowledge and skills you need to master the Army OER form. Do you have any questions or comments about the OER form or the tips provided in this article? Please let us know in the comments section below.
What is the purpose of the Army OER form?
+The Army OER form is used to evaluate an officer's performance and potential, and it plays a significant role in determining their future assignments, promotions, and career trajectory.
How often is the Army OER form completed?
+The Army OER form is typically completed at the end of each rating period, which can vary depending on the officer's assignment and unit.
Who completes the Army OER form?
+The Army OER form is completed by the officer's rater, who is typically their supervisor or commander.