What should Soldiers do if they need clarification on promotion criteria?

Consulting the chain of command or personnel office is the best course of action for Soldiers seeking clarification on promotion criteria. This approach ensures that the information they receive is accurate, reliable, and tailored to their specific situation. The chain of command typically has firsthand knowledge of the policies in effect and can interpret those policies in the context of the Soldiers' career progression.

In addition, personnel offices are equipped to provide official guidance and ensure that Soldiers are aware of the most current promotion policies and criteria. This direct line to authoritative resources helps Soldiers avoid misunderstandings that could arise from secondhand information.

Relying on assumptions based on peers' experiences may lead to misinformation, as each Soldier's situation can differ significantly. Reading unofficial online forums carries the risk of encountering outdated or incorrect information from unreliable sources. Lastly, waiting for annual updates from higher command can result in missed opportunities for clarification or action, as promotion criteria may be updated more frequently or require proactive engagement to fully understand.