Testing for promotion requires dedication, determination

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Russell Kuck
  • 62nd Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash., --  How badly do you want that next stripe? Testing for promotion should not be taken lightly. Planning, concentration and determination are the keys to successful test-taking. 

The material covered in both the promotion fitness exam and skill knowledge test require the individual's complete understanding. It's your responsibility to prepare yourselves. Here are some tips to consider:

-- Get your test date early. You should already know when it's your testing cycle. If you haven't already received a test date, contact your commander's support staff immediately. Don't wait until they tell you you're testing tomorrow morning.

-- Come up with a study plan ... and stick to it! Half the battle of planning is abiding to it. Study-ing on a daily basis has proven to be the key in retaining any material you learn. Know what upcoming events will interrupt your regular schedule, and plan your study time around it.

--Communicate with your supervisor. See if your supervisor can provide you opportunities to become familiar with areas in your work center you don't work with on a daily basis. Use your newfound knowledge and experience as a reference when reviewing your career development course.

-- Visit the testing facility before arriving for the test. Take note of how much travel time you'll need, and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This gives you a little room for unexpected delays, such as traffic. Also, knowing your surroundings will help you stay focused while taking your test.

-- Learn some relaxation techniques before taking the test. Relieve test anxiety, and have confidence in your study method. If you've done your best, you should have nothing to worry about.

Good luck to all those who are testing this cycle. You're in charge of your careers, so take charge of it. Hooah!