Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) Vice Adm. Robert Burke highlighted principles of command and Sailor engagement, as a means to increase retention in a growing fleet, in NAVADMIN 100/18, released April 23.

The message, part two of Burke's 'Brilliant on the Basics II' message to the fleet, described areas for command leaders to foster Sailor growth and maturation through continuous engagement at multiple points in a Sailor's career.

According to the message, leaders must build the foundation for Sailors to succeed at their new jobs, by ensuring their basic needs are met. These needs range from food or a place to sleep, to providing tools, materials and equipment for Sailors to accomplish the command's mission.

Individual Sailor engagement can increase when Sailors successfully contribute to their small teams, by qualifying for watch and maintenance responsibilities. Leaders must facilitate an environment of engagement by ensuring Sailors know that their work is valued and appreciated on a regular basis.

Once Sailors mature into management positions, leaders must continue to nurture involvement and leadership skills and inspire Sailors to have a commitment to excellence for the entire command. Sailors must strive to push their teammates to increasingly high standards and levels of performance.

Burke closed his message with a challenge for leaders to be brilliant on the basics of engagement, in order to reach and retain each Sailor in an urgent competition for talent.

For more information, please read the NAVADMIN located at the NPC website.