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

Here is your question.

“You have a Soldier who is intent on getting out of the Army that has a newborn child and wife. He does not appear to have a plan once he gets out at the moment. How would you approach this Soldier?”

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: Take care of the Soldier.

Step 2: Handle it at the lowest level possible.

Step 3: Use Army programs when applicable.

First, take care of the Soldier. In this situation, you’re not dealing with misconduct or a medical emergency, but there is still risk. A new child, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future can wear a person down. The Soldier may be struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or lack of direction. Your first job is to sit down with him in a private space and listen. Ask why he’s set on getting out. Ask if he’s okay, and if his family is okay. Let him talk without pushing him in one direction or the other. If anything sounds like depression or severe stress, connect him with Behavioral Health or the Chaplain. Make sure his immediate well-being and the well-being of his family are supported. Don’t assume it’s your job to fix his decision—assume it’s your job to care for him as a human first.

Second, handle it at the lowest level possible. You don’t need to push this issue up the chain unless there’s danger or a legal issue. This is about mentorship and leadership. Help him walk through his decision. Ask what his plan is. If he doesn’t have one, don’t lecture—help him build one. Encourage him to speak with his wife about goals. Offer to help him schedule appointments with the Army Career Skills Program or Soldier for Life. Share your own knowledge about the ETS process and what things look like outside the military. He may not be asking for your help directly, but this is your chance to lead by example and show care through action.

Third, use Army programs when needed. There are many resources designed specifically for situations like this. The Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program is required for Soldiers ETSing, but he might not understand how much it offers—everything from job fairs to resume writing to career counseling. The Army Community Service center can help with financial planning. If he wants to go to school, get him in touch with an education counselor to discuss GI Bill benefits. If stress is impacting his decision, the Chaplain or Behavioral Health can provide support. Showing that you know and can connect Soldiers to these tools shows your readiness as a leader.