This phase involves sustaining those tasks already mastered and developing proficiency in new tasks. The commander uses additional duty assignments, technical courses, and developmental courses to broaden the leader's perspective and skills for current and future duties. Training and duty in special emphasis areas, such as the arms room, maintenance, and supply, help the leader to prepare for future assignments. Also during this phase, the leader starts a self-development program consisting of professional reading and correspondence courses. The self development program focuses on those skills that the leader needs or desires to develop.
Future assignments are important in a leader's development program.
The commander uses assignments to provide junior leaders with the experience required for professional and personal development. Move subordinate leaders into positions of increased responsibility as they demonstrate their capability. Base reassignment on their level of development. Supervise and mentor their development. The commander should know his leaders so well that he can identify when they have mastered their current assignment responsibilities and either increase their responsibilities, expose them to developmental activities, or move them to positions of greater responsibility if appropriate.