How should enlisted leaders address a subordinate's mistakes?

Providing guidance and developing an action plan is an essential approach for enlisted leaders when addressing a subordinate's mistakes because it fosters a constructive learning environment. This method emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support rather than punitive measures. By guiding the subordinate, leaders can help the individual understand what went wrong, why it was an issue, and how to prevent similar mistakes in the future.

This approach encourages personal and professional growth, reinforces accountability, and builds trust. It allows for open communication, where the subordinate feels safe to discuss their challenges and learn from their experiences. Implementing an action plan not only sets clear expectations for improvement but also provides the subordinate with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

In contrast, other options, such as punishing immediately or ignoring the issue, can lead to negative outcomes. Punishment may create fear or resentment, damaging the leader-subordinate relationship. Ignoring mistakes does not address the root causes and can let issues fester, ultimately leading to greater problems down the line. Transferring to another team may seem like a solution, but it often doesn't resolve the underlying issues and can disrupt team cohesion. Therefore, providing guidance and developing an action plan is the most effective method for growth and improvement.