Section 10D - Mentoring

Question 1

A mentor is a trusted counsel or guide. What is mentoring?

Answer 1

A relationship in which a person with greater experience and wisdom guides another person in personal and professional development.

Question 2

Mentoring is a promotion enhancement program (T/F)

Answer 2

False. (It is a professional development program designed to help each individuals reach his or her maximum potential.)

Question 3

In mentoring, professional development occurs at every echelon and activity. (T/F)

Answer 3

True.

Question 4

Why is mentoring part of a professional relationship?

Answer 4

Because it 1) fosters communication; 2) enhances morale and discipline; and 3) improves the operational environment while maintaining respect for authority.

Question 5

Name at least three areas that mentoring covers?

Answer 5

Any three of the following: 1) career guidance; 2) technical and professional development; 3) leadership; 4) Air Force history and heritage; 5) air and space power doctrine; 6) strategic vision; 7) contributions to joint war-fighting; 8) knowledge of military ethics; and 9) understanding the Air Force’s core values.

Question 6

Who is an Airman’s primary mentor?

Answer 6

His or her immediate supervisor or rater.

Question 7

Whose direct involvement is key to the mentoring process?

Answer 7

The commander’s and supervisor’s.

Question 8

List six programs that help commanders and supervisors focus their attention on an Airman’s professional development.

Answer 8

1) Performance feedback; 2) PME; 3) academic education opportunities; 4) assignment policies; 5) recognition programs; and 6) individual personal development actions.

Question 9

There are many organizations, programs and associations dedicated to the education and advancement of military professionals. (T/F)

Answer 9

True.

Question 10

Who provides lists and contact information for organizations that support military development?

Answer 10

The first sergeant, base education center, and Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC).

Question 11

It is the inherent responsibility of Air Force leaders to mentor future leaders. (T/F)

Answer 11

True.

Question 12

How do supervisors help their people when mentoring?

Answer 12

By providing realistic evaluations of performance and potential and being positive role models.

Question 13

mentoring consists of a discussion of performance, potential and professional development plans during the performance feedback session. What should this feedback address as a minimum?

Answer 13

1) Promotion; 2) PME; 3) advanced degree work; 4) physical fitness; 5) personal goals and expectations;; 6) professional qualities; 7) next assignment; and 8) long-range plans.

Question 14

_____ must distinguish between individual goals, career aspirations and realistic expectation. ____ must focus on the Air Force’s institutional needs.

Answer 14

Mentor. Individuals.

Question 15

Mentors must ensure personnel set ____ but achievable goals.

Answer 15

High.

Question 16

What are the roles of PME in professional development?

Answer 16

Preparing individuals to take on increased responsibilities appropriate to their grade and enhancing their contribution to the Air Force.

Question 17

What do members focus on in PME?

Answer 17

Enhancing professional competence and becoming superior leaders, while expanding their operational employment of air, space and cyberspace power knowledge.

Question 18

How are postsecondary degrees important to professional development?

Answer 18

They can enhance your job and professional qualifications. (A degree related to your primary specialty area or occupational series is most helpful.)

Question 19

What two requirements must SNCO’s meet to receive a senior rater endorsement on their performance report?

Answer 19

1) Completions of SNCOA correspondence or in residence course; and 2) a CCAF degree in any specialty.

Question 20

Why should you consider membership in professional organizations and associations?

Answer 20

They may provide additional opportunities for mentoring, develop professional skills and broaden your technical expertise.

Question 21

Substantive and formal feedback is essential to the effectiveness of the evaluation system. (T/F)

Answer 21

True.

Question 22

What should performance feedback provide as part of mentoring and professional development?

Answer 22

A realistic assessment of performance, career standing, future potential and actions to help the rate reach the next level of professional development.

Question 23

What outlines the requirements for promotion selection (SSgt-MSgt) and provides feedback score sheets to help determine your professional development needs?

Answer 23

WAPS.

Question 24

Describe the “whole person concept” selection process used for promotion to SMSgt and CMSgt.

Answer 24

Weighted scores are added to board scores based on performance, leadership, expertise, job responsibility, professional competence, specific achievements and education.

Question 25

In the military assignment system, on what should the mentor and individuals focus?

Answer 25

Obtaining an assignment that enhances professional development and meets Air Force needs, without necessarily keying on a specific position or location.

Question 26

Military assignments should complement the individual’s professional development needs and be second only to what?

Answer 26

Mission requirements.

Question 27

Who is eligible for consideration for various decorations throughout their career?

Answer 27

All military members.

Question 28

How should a supervisor’s recommendations for awards and decorations be restricted?

Answer 28

To recognitions of meritorious service, outstanding achievement, etc., that clearly place the individual above his or her peers.