Civil Air Patrol Billy Mitchell Leadership Test.

Describe the purpose of a résumé.

A résumé briefly documents your work history and gives you the opportunity to show what makes you qualified for a job.

Explain why America needs leadership

. People will look to you to get things done. Your advice will be sought after from people who are faced with tough problems. Your self-confidence will not only help you succeed, it will energize the people around you

Explain what a "warrior" is in the context of the "warrior spirit."

The warrior spirit is a condition of the heart.

Describe the hallmarks of the "warrior spirit."

The Air Force describes it as tough-mindedness and tireless motivation. A warrior is someone whose strong character enables them to make sacrifices for the team and achieve their long-term goals. Warriors defend something valuable - their personal honor

Identify three benefits of having a warrior spirit

Clear Conscience, Good Reputation, Environment of Trust and Respect.

Describe what "core values" are.

The Core Values are the four basic qualities CAP expects all members to display at all times: Integrity First, Volunteer Service, Excellence in All We Do, and Respect

Integrity First

The willingness to do what is right, even when no one is looking.

Volunteer Service

Is about "selflessness" It's the difference between "giving" and "taking".

Excellence in All We Do.

No matter what challenge is facing you, you will give it your best effort

Respect.

Someone who is respectful treats others as they would like to be treated

Describe the concept of self-awareness

To know how well you are living up to the ideals of the Core Values requires self-awareness (the ability to monitor & judge your own actions). Genuine self-awareness requires incredible honesty.

Describe the concept of self-discipline and explain what you can do to develop it.

Self-discipline can be defined as the ability to direct your thoughts, emotions, and actions toward a meaningful purpose. Cadets learn self-discipline on the drill field and by wearing their uniform to exacting standards. Other ways to increase self-discipline include strengthening your work habits - on a regular basis, try to do something that is necessary but not "fun."

Describe the concept of attitude and explain why attitudes are contagious.

The state of mind that lies behind your every action is called attitude. All attitudes, good and bad, are contagious.

Describe what you can do to develop a positive attitude.

A positive attitude begins in the realization that attitude is a choice - you can choose to be positive, or you can choose to be negative

Why must leaders be accountable?

Everyone must answer for their actions, regardless of their rank. Even the president is accountable to the American people.

Explain what an oath is.

An oath is a solemn promise.

Recite the Cadet Oath from memory

I pledge that I will serve faithfully in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program, and that I will attend meetings regularly, participate actively in unit activities, obey my officers, wear my uniform properly, and advance my education and training rapidly to prepare myself to be of service to my community, state, and nation.

"I pledge that I will serve faithfully in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program ..."

Being faithful means being true and doing what you say you will do.

"... and that I will attend meetings regularly, ..."

While you may need to miss a few meetings once in a while due to other commitments, you pledge to attend squadron meetings on a regular basis

"... participate actively in unit activities, ..."

You promise to be enthusiastic about what cadets do.

"... obey my officers, ..."

Here you acknowledge you don't have all the answers. You realize there are people who have more experience than you, and you'll follow their guidance.

"... wear my uniform properly ..."

There is a right way and a wrong way to wear the uniform. Recognizing this, you promise to represent CAP and the US Air Force well by always looking sharp in uniform.

"... and advance my education and training rapidly ..."

The word "cadet" can be defined as "a young person in training to become a leader." Therefore, a cadet's primary job is to learn how to lead

"... to prepare myself to be of service to my community, state, and nation."

CAP is a volunteer organization whose main purpose is community service. Everything we do is altruistic, meaning that it is for the benefit of others, not ourselves personally.

Identify what is the root of all military customs and courtesies.

All military customs and courtesies are rooted in basic politeness and respect.

What are customs and courtesies?

They are small, but important expressions of politeness and mutual respect.

Explain why rendering customs and courtesies is not a mark of inferiority.

Military customs and courtesies are never a mark of inferiority or servility. Saluting or coming to attention for an officer is not a form of humiliation, but of pride

Describe how customs and courtesies affect team spirit.

Cadets strengthen their self-discipline and maintain a positive attitude by habitually and cheerfully rendering customs and courtesies.

Describe the origins of the salute.

The salute, for example, has its origin in another time, when kings ruled, knights wore armor, and courtly manners flourished. It was the age of chivalry

Outline basic rules for rendering a salute.

- When in uniform, cadets salute military officers, CAP senior members, and cadet officers higher in rank than themselves.

- Salutes are normally exchanged only outdoors. Indoors, salute officers only when formally reporting. - The junior person initiates the salute a fair distance from the senior person such that the senior has time to return the salute.

- Offer a greeting such as, "Good morning, ma'am," when exchanging salutes.

- When in formation, do not salute; the commander salutes for you.

- When in doubt, salute. Anyone may render a salute at any time if they believe one is warranted.

Outline basic rules for coming to attention.

- It is customary for cadets to come to the position of attention when being addressed by an officer.

- If an officer who is higher ranking than anyone present enters a room, the first person to notice commands, "Room, ATTENTION."

- In a classroom or work environment, these customs are usually relaxed.

Describe the position of honor.

- The right is the position of honor. This stems from antiquity when warriors carried swords, usually on their right side.

- When walking with another cadet or an officer, it is customary for the junior person to walk on the left.

How would you address a C/CMSgt?

"Chief"

How would you address any cadet from C/SSgt-C/SMSgt?

"Sergeant"

How would you address a Cadet Officer?

"Sir" or "Ma'am"

How would you address a Senior Member?

"Sir" or "Ma'am"

How would you report to an officer?

- First, check your uniform. Look sharp when reporting.

- Approach the officer's door, knock twice, and wait for permission to enter.

- Proceed toward the officer and halt 2 paces from them or their desk.

- Salute and say, "Sir, Cadet (Last Name) reporting as ordered."

- Wait for the officer to return your salute.

- Remain at attention, unless instructed otherwise, as you conduct your business with the officer.

- When the meeting is over, the officer will say, "Dismissed."

- Come to attention (if not already), and take one step backward.

- Salute and wait for the officer to return the salute.

- Perform an about face, and exit the area.

To report to an officer outdoors, follow the steps above, except:

- You will normally be wearing your cover (hat).

- There will be no door for you to knock on; simply proceed toward the officer, halt 2 paces in front of them, salute, and report as explained above.

What is the proper way to introduce somebody?

- When making an introduction, the junior person is introduced to the senior. For example, "Captain Jones, this is Airman Smith. Airman Smith, meet Captain Jones."

- Likewise, people who lack a formal title or position of responsibility are introduced to those who do.

- Of course, it is polite to offer a firm handshake when making someone's acquaintance.

Describe what usefulness the uniform has as a leadership training tool.

The uniform is a vehicle for learning self-discipline, personal responsibility, and self-respect

Explain why the concept of image is important when wearing the uniform.

For good or bad, one person's conduct reflects on everyone else in the group.

Defend the idea that wearing the uniform is a privilege.

Wearing the uniform is a privilege, not a right. Because CAP is the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary and cadets wear an Air Force-style uniform, there is a special obligation to wear it properly and with pride.

Explain why drill and ceremonies helps cadets develop leadership skills.

A unit's performance on the drill field is a measure of the cadets' sense of self-discipline

What is the best way to learn drill?

One step at a time

Explain what a chain of command is.

The chain of command is the order of authority.

Describe ways in which a chain of command promotes teamwork

While teamwork is important, the chain of command is based on the belief that final responsibility for getting a job done ought to be assigned to a single individual.

Describe what "jumping the chain" means and why it is to be avoided.

Likewise, "jumping the chain" is to be avoided. This occurs when an individual takes an issue to a high-level leader, without consulting their immediate superiors. Therefore, another benefit of having a chain of command is that it re-enforces the idea that everyone is accountable to another leader.

When does the chain of command function best?

The chain functions best when people resolve issues at the lowest possible level

Define the term self-management.

The process of directing and controlling your actions so that you can achieve your goals in life.

Defend the idea that good leaders need to develop self-management skills.

If you have good self-management skills, you take ownership of the goals you set for yourself, the decisions you make, how you use your time, and how you control stress in your life.

Describe the concept of a "future picture."

"Future picture," a clear and compelling description of what you want your life to look like at some point in the future.

What is a goal?

A goal is simply a dream with a deadline.

Outline the steps used in the goal setting process.

1. Dream big.

2. Identify a specific goal and write it down

3. List the steps needed to reach the goal.

4. Get help and support from others

5. Work toward your goal, one step at a time.

6. Reward yourself along the way and when you complete your goal.

Describe benefits of setting personal goals.

Goals give you a sense of mission, a rudder, a meaningful purpose.

Defend the idea that leaders should follow a process as they make decisions.

Good leaders follow a decision-making process. If you were to bake a cake, you would follow a recipe. Forget an ingredient and your cake will come out wrong. Likewise, a decision-making process is useful because it helps ensure you won't overlook an important aspect of your problem.

Identify and describe the 7 steps used in the ethical decision-making process.

1. Stop, think, and define the problem. - Before making a decision, stop and think. Define the problem and write it down.

2. Get the facts. As you gather and consider the "facts," be mindful of the difference between facts, opinions, and assumptions

3. Brainstorm and list your options. Brainstorming is a method of generating a large number of creative ideas.

4. Weigh your options. Consider how the decisions will affect stakeholders, people who have a stake in the solution.

5. Consider your values. Consider how your best solution relates to the Core Values,

6. Decide and act. But before you decide and act, pause if you can.

7. Re-evaluate the decision. Good leaders re-evaluate their decisions and change course if necessary.

Define the term, "ethical trap" and explain why leaders need to avoid it.

Leaders who make bad initial decisions often get caught in the "ethical trap." 10 That is, their solution to a problem turns out to be unethical, and as a result, a secondary ethical problem pops up. Now instead of having one problem, they have two.

Defend the idea that good leaders motivate followers to live the Core Values.

If a leader models the Core Values and shows a high degree of moral courage, the team will be inspired to follow the leader's positive example.

Define the term, "time management."

Time management—the process of organizing and using your time wisely

Explain why time management is an important skill for leaders.

As a young leader in training, you need to develop good time management skills for yourself now, before you take on the increased burden of managing other people's time as well.

Describe what it means to be "efficient" in terms of managing your time.

Efficiency is a broad term describing how well a leader is making use of their time and other resources.

Describe ways leaders can become more efficient.

Pay Attention, Come Prepared, Focus on Your Goals, Do it Right the First Time, Sequence the Work Efficiently, Maximize Up-time, and Limit Downtime,

Define the term, "procrastination."

The practice of putting off for no good reason a task that should be done right now

Describe reasons why people procrastinate.

• Fear of failure

• Uncertainty about what they are supposed to do

• Not knowing where to start

• The task is unpleasant

• Desire to work tasks that are more "fun"

What should you do one you know that you procrastinate?

Once you know you procrastinate, try to identify why you are avoiding the task.

Describe ways to overcome procrastination.

- Consider your peace of mind

- Break the job into small pieces

- Jump right in

- Publicly commit to the work

- Use rewards

Describe tools useful in managing your time.

- Keep a Calendar

- Wear a Watch

- Keep a Notepad.

- Create "Do Lists." Efficiency experts believe that prioritized "do lists" are essential time management tools.

- Make a Time Inventory. Once you know exactly how you are spending your time you can manage it better.

- Allow for Flexibility and Fun. People are not machines. They have a genuine need for fun, spontaneity, and relaxation.

Define the term "stress."

Stress is the body's response to change.

Describe how stress can be both positive and negative.

If stress is left unchecked, it becomes a destructive force that will harm your body, paralyze your efforts, and drive you toward dangerous behaviors. . But stress is also designed to be a lifesaver. In a time of danger, stress gets your adrenaline going so you can move quickly to dodge a harmful threat.

Define the term, "stressor."

Anything that causes stress is called a stressor.

Describe everyday occurrences that can produce stress.

•Arguing with a friend

• Moving to a new city

• Being picked-on at school

• Breaking up with a girlfriend or boyfriend • Being around a drug user

• Being upset with your parents

• Worrying about your personal appearance

• Getting glasses or braces

• Coping with the death of a pet, friend, or relative

Explain why young people are more prone to stress than adults.

Young people are more prone to stress than adults for several reasons. 19 First, just growing up and discovering who you are is stressful. Second, because young people lack the experience adults have amassed, they do not always realize that ups and downs are a normal part of life. Third, a teen's social world is less stable than an adult's.

Define the term, "resilience."

Resilience is the ability to bounce back and recover from adversity

Describe each of the 7 steps used in managing stress.

- Try to Resolve the Problem. People who try to fix their problems tend to be emotionally healthier.

- Avoid Things That Bring You Down

- Let Some Things Go

- Exercise. Exercise is the most important part of a plan to manage stress

- Relax. By practicing relaxation techniques, you can fool your body such that stress hormones stop firing and a relaxed feeling takes over.

- Eat Well. Good nutrition is an important part of any healthy lifestyle.

- Sleep Well. teens require 9 to 10 hours of sleep per night

Describe the consequences of not being able to cope with stress in a positive way.

People who lack coping skills lose their battles with stress. As a result, they are more apt to turn to drugs, believing that getting high will help them escape from stress, despite the obvious facts on how drugs ruin lives. Second, people who lack coping skills can find themselves in a pattern of failure. Stress affects their mood, which frustrates their ability to succeed in everyday life, and then those failures produce more stress.

Why is it important for leaders to have coping skills?

Coping skills are especially important for leaders. As a leader, your ability to exert self-control is always on display. If your team believes you cannot manage your own stress, they will lose faith in your ability to lead.

Why do individuals form teams?

They form teams in the hope that Together Everyone Achieves More.

Define the term "team."

A team is a collection of individuals who are committed to working together to achieve a common goal.

Defend the idea that diversity makes a team stronger.

Great teams use individuals' special skills to their advantage. One person's strength helps overcome another person's weakness.

Explain how team members look to one another for leadership.

By being so committed to working together, team members often look to one another-not just to their boss-for leadership.

Describe why team spirit affects the team's ability to perform.

A sense of team spirit is important because it builds trust, making team members eager to cooperate and not afraid of making compromises as they work together.

Define the term "synergy."

The idea that by working together they can achieve more than each individual could on their own

Identify the 4 characteristics of good team players.

- Self-Discipline.

- Selflessness.

- Enthusiasm.

- Loyalty

Explain why team members must possess self discipline

Effective team members possess a self-discipline that makes them dependable. They have the discipline to follow directions. They come to the

Defend the idea that teamwork requires sacrifice.

Teamwork always requires sacrifice. A willingness to put the team's needs ahead of your own is the price of admission onto any great team.

Explain why an team member's enthusiasm can affect the team.

If one member of the team has a positive attitude, that sunny outlook will spread to the other members of the team. Enthusiasm is contagious.

Discuss what the term "loyalty" means in the context of teamwork.

A team member must be loyal - faithful to the people on the team, supportive of its leader, and committed to the team's mission

Define the term "mentor."

A mentor is a close, trusted, experienced advisor.

Identify 5 ways that mentors help cadets.

- Mentors Are Your Role Models.

- Mentors Challenge You.

- Mentors Are Your Friends.

- Mentors Are Your Guides to CAP.

- Mentors Are Your Tutors.

Defend the idea that cadets can benefit from mentoring.

A mentor does not formally grade you or tell you what to do, but they will offer feedback so you can improve your leadership skills.

Describe what a person needs to do to become "mentor-ready."

- First, you need to be eager to learn.

- Second, mentoring works best if you are humble

- Finally, you need to be ambitious

What does humble mean?

Free from pride and arrogance.

Define "listening."

It is the process of receiving, deciphering, and responding to spoken and non-verbal messages

What is a leader who cannot communicate well?

Useless

What is the most neglected communication skill?

Listening

Compare listening to hearing.

Listeners do not merely hear sounds, they focus on meaning.

Identify reasons why people might not listen well.

- Thinking about what to say next. Having one mouth and two ears, we should spend twice as much time listening as we do talking

- Hearing what we expect to hear

- Not paying attention

- Being prejudiced

What percentage of a leader's day is spent communicating?

70%

Describe ways you can become an active listener.

- Prepare. when the speaker's mouth opens, close yours and open your ears.

- Adjust to the situation. Be aware of factors that affect your ability to concentrate and work to overcome them.

- Focus on key points. . Listen to everything the speaker says, but focus on their key points

- Pay attention to verbal & non-verbal cues. Their facial expressions and gestures (non-verbal cues) add meaning to the words they say.

- Think in context.

- Take notes. The purpose of note-taking is to summarize the speaker's main points, not to capture every word the speaker said.

- Confirm the message. Respond to the speaker in a way that reflects your best understanding of their message.

Identify the main goal of communications.

The main goal of communications is not just to receive sounds (as in hearing), or to merely see words (as in reading), but to share meaning.

Describe why feedback is important in the communications process.

Feedback takes place when you return to the speaker a portion of the message they sent to you.