| Leadership skills theory discusses those leadership behaviors and attributes that are necessary to be successful in attaining organizational goals. One of the most important goals that the Army National Guard (ARNG) has is to retain its soldiers. Retention in the Army National Guard (ARNG) is critical to the security of this nation. The Guard conducts operations both humanitarian and combat---both foreign and domestic---on a daily basis. Retaining those quality soldiers who are currently serving must be a significant focus of the service over the next several years. Without leadership emphasis, the Guard's retention rates could drop. Further, without the development of key leadership skills, retention rates will suffer. This study tested the relationship between leader skills and the intent of National Guard soldiers' to reenlist after a combat or humanitarian mobilization and deployment. The results were profound in that each of the 23 leadership skills tested was positively related to intent to reenlist. Further, each of these skills is trainable to both military and civilian leaders. Through judicious use of effective leadership skills, these commanders can positively affect the retention problem from within. By adjusting its leadership-training program, the ARNG may find itself reaping retention rewards for years to come. |
