Situational questions are a big part of boards, so make sure you have them down solid.

Here is your question.

“One of your Soldiers just found out she is pregnant. She doesn’t really know how that will impact her duties. What do you tell her?”

Now, let’s talk through how to answer this question using a 3 step proven method. This approach shows board members that you know how to think like a leader. The format is:

Step 1: Make sure the soldier is safe and take care of them.

Step 2: Handle it at the lowest level possible.

Step 3: Use Army programs when applicable.

First, take care of the Soldier. Pregnancy can bring a mix of emotions—relief, fear, confusion—and it can raise real questions about the future. Your first priority is to reassure your Soldier that she’s still a valued part of the team. Make sure she knows she won’t be punished, looked down on, or sidelined for being pregnant. Let her know you’re there for her. Confirm that she’s okay and has access to proper medical care. Encourage her to schedule a prenatal appointment through her PCM, if she hasn’t already. She doesn’t need to have all the answers yet—you just need to show her that she’s supported.

Second, handle it at the lowest level possible. This isn’t something that needs to go straight to the First Sergeant or Commander unless there’s a unique complication. Your job is to help the Soldier understand what comes next. Explain that there are medical profiles that will adjust her duties based on her stage of pregnancy. Help her speak with the unit medical personnel to begin that process. Keep her involved in the team. Don’t isolate her or treat her differently unless her profile or situation requires it. This is still your Soldier, and you are still her leader.

Third, use Army programs when needed. Pregnancy counseling is available through the medical clinic. She’ll also receive information on postpartum recovery and family support services. Programs like Army Community Service can help with parenting classes or financial planning. If this pregnancy will affect housing, child care, or finances, connect her with the right experts. Make sure she knows about the Family Advocacy Program, the Exceptional Family Member Program if needed, and any policies that affect her entitlements or responsibilities as a Soldier and a future parent.

Now let me give you a word-for-word example answer you can say at the board:

“If one of my Soldiers came to me and told me she was pregnant, the first thing I would do is talk to her privately to make sure she was okay and had medical support. I would reassure her that she’s still a valuable part of the team and that I’m here to support her. I’d make sure she’s linked up with her Primary Care Provider and that she starts the process of getting a pregnancy profile. I would explain how her duties may change depending on her profile and stage of pregnancy, and help her adjust her responsibilities in a way that keeps her involved but protects her health. I’d also point her toward available Army programs like OB care, ACS, and parenting support. My job is to support her as a Soldier and a future parent, and make sure she gets the care and resources she needs to succeed.”