Preparing for the Mid-Marketplace as an Active Duty 1LT
Joint Task Force Bravo Change of Command
As a young 2LT, I was excited when I first heard about the Mid-Marketplace for 1LTs and the opportunities it offered. However, when I sought guidance on how to best prepare, I encountered resistance from some senior officers who dismissed the idea, telling me that the Mid- Marketplace didn’t exist and that I couldn’t leave. Fortunately, I had a supportive Company Commander and Battalion S1 who guided me every step of the way. I also took the initiative to learn on my own and reached out to my former ROTC PMS, who was a Battalion Commander. His insights were invaluable, especially when I asked about the questions he would pose to his Captains competing for company command positions.
After gathering a few examples of AIM resumes from my Battalion S1 and creating my 5-year plan, the next challenge was updating my Soldier Talent Profile (STP) in IPPS-A. Since the system was still relatively new, many were unsure how to edit personal information. However, investing time in your STP is crucial, as it is one of the main documents interviewers reference.
Thanks to the Mid-Marketplace, I was able to PCS (Permanent Change of Station) to one of the Army’s hidden gems, Honduras! Initially, I thought I wanted a Recruiting XO position, but when the market opened, I saw the opportunity in Honduras and made it my top choice. I reached out immediately and followed up frequently. It was a dream location I didn’t expect to experience until I was a senior CPT or MAJ, but fortunately, the opportunity came much sooner!
Prepping for the Mid-Marketplace
To ensure success in the Mid-Marketplace, it’s essential to prepare several key items ahead of time. Being well-prepared allows for a more efficient and confident approach to securing the right assignment. Here are the critical documents and steps to have read:
1. 5-Year Plan: Clearly outline your career goals and desired trajectory. This plan will help you articulate your ambitions during interviews and show units that you have a well- thought-out vision for your future. If you have a spouse and children ensure you add their timelines as well.
2. Past 2-3 OER’s (Officer Evaluation Reports): These documents highlight your performance and achievements. They provide potential units with a snapshot of your capabilities and leadership qualities.
3. Updated STP (Soldier Talent Profile): Ensure your STP in IPPS-A is current. This profile is a key document that interviewers often reference to understand your skills, experiences, and preferences.
4. AIMs Updated Resume: Your resume in the Assignment Interactive Module (AIM) should reflect your most recent accomplishments and relevant experience. Tailor it to highlight strengths that align with your desired roles.
5. Baseball Card: A concise, one-page summary of your military professional highlights and personal details. This quick-reference document is useful during interviews and networking. I strongly encourage you to ask your mentor for their baseball card as a template. Also not a highly asked but good to have prepared.
6. DA Photo: A professional, up-to-date Department of the Army photo is not often required for your personnel file but good to have on hand prior to the Marketplace opening just in case.
Having these documents completed and organized in advance prepares you for a faster and more streamlined approach to the Marketplace. While not all units will request every document, having them ready ensures you’re well-prepared for any opportunity that arises.
Questions to Prepare for When Entering an Interview or Answering a Hiring Question Sheet
Preparing for an interview in the Mid-Marketplace requires thoughtful responses to common questions that commanders may ask to assess your readiness, professionalism, and long-term goals. Below are some typical questions and strategies for addressing them effectively:
1. Why do you want to leave your current duty station?
This question helps commanders gauge whether you are seeking a new assignment for growth or escaping challenges negatively. A professional response might be: “I have greatly enjoyed my time with my current unit and have gained valuable experience. However, I believe I have learned everything they had to offer, and I am eager for a new challenge that will further prepare me for the responsibilities of a Company Commander.”
2. What leadership books have you recently read? What has been your favorite and why?
Be prepared to discuss recent leadership books you’ve read, highlighting one that has particularly resonated with you. Explain how it has influenced your leadership style or approach.
3. What would you say are your weaknesses?
Frame your weaknesses in a way that shows self-awareness and a commitment to growth. For instance, you could say: “One area I’m working on is delegating tasks more effectively. I’ve recognized the importance of empowering my team and have been focusing on improving this skill.”
4. If you had to report within a month, would you be able to?
This question tests your flexibility and readiness, especially for overseas assignments. I was asked this question for 3 overseas assignments. You can address this by expressing your willingness to adapt and mentioning any personal considerations briefly “I am prepared to report within a month and have the necessary arrangements in place to ensure a smooth transition”.
5. What are your goals for serving in [specific unit]?
Tailor your response to the unit’s mission and how you plan to contribute to its success.
For example: “I aim to contribute to [unit’s mission] by leveraging my skills in [specific area] and to gain experience in [desired area of growth].”
6. What are your long-term career plans in the Army? (FORSCOM, VTIP, UQR, etc.)
Share your long-term goals while demonstrating a commitment to professional development and service.
7. If you plan to continue serving, what units are you interested in after [current unit]?
Discuss your interest in specific units that align with your career goals, showing that you have a clear vision for your future in the Army.
8. Is there any other information you would like to share at this time?
Use this opportunity to highlight any additional skills, experiences, or achievements that set you apart, or to address any potential concerns proactively.
9. Job-Related and Regulation Questions
Be prepared for specific job-related questions or queries about regulations. Reviewing relevant Army regulations and being able to cite them demonstrates preparedness and attention to detail. I was asked by one Battalion XO 3 regulation questions and was unprepared.
Once the Marketplace opens
When the Marketplace opens, it can feel overwhelming if you don’t have a clear idea of where you want to go. It’s crucial to sit down with yourself and your family to discuss what opportunities align with your career goals. If you’re aiming to become a Company Commander in the future, consider selecting a role that will make you stand out in the Captain marketplace. For instance, if you are currently stateside, think about choosing an overseas assignment. Overseas assignments typically last around two years, compared to four years stateside, which can be advantageous if you prefer not to spend an extended period abroad.
The mid-marketplace is a valuable opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. If you aspire to command an airborne unit but don’t have your wings yet, use the mid-marketplace to join an airborne unit. This way, by the time you’re a Captain, you’ll have your wings, making you a more competitive candidate and reducing concerns for your Battalion Commander.
Once the market is live, some jobs will list Points of Contact (POCs), and some may not. Start by scouting the jobs you are interested in and ranking them. Reach out to the POCs as soon as possible with a concise email. Here’s a template you can use:
Email Template: Good morning [POC’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I came across your 1LT opportunity on the AIM Marketplace and wanted to find a time that works best for you to discuss if we are a great match. If you need further information (resume, OER, STP), please let me know. Thank you for your time and consideration. Have a great day!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Keep your message quick and to the point—there’s no need to overthink it. This allows the POC to send you any required paperwork and schedule an interview. If you’re particularly interested in a position, consider attaching all necessary documents upfront and adding/ changing, “Attached are my personal files; please let me know if any additional paperwork is required.” This shows your preparedness and initiative.
If a unit doesn’t provide a POC online, don’t be discouraged. Use the internet to find relevant contacts. Look up the unit, email the Brigade S-1, or check their Facebook page. While it may seem proactive, this is your future, and it’s important to take charge. Some units may not even be aware they are listed in the Marketplace. For example, some of my friends secured interviews by calling recruiting stations directly and asking for a Battalion S-1 POC or a Company/Battalion Commander POC. Don’t be afraid to make these calls—if you’re not doing it, someone else is.
By taking these steps, you’ll position yourself as a serious and motivated candidate, increasing your chances of securing the assignment you want.
Follow Up
Once you’ve sent out your initial emails, don’t hesitate to follow up! With potentially hundreds of 1LTs applying for fewer than 60 positions nationwide, your application could easily get lost in the shuffle. Following up approximately a week after submitting your information is essential to ensure your application is noticed.
If you receive an interview, be sure to send a thank-you email afterward. This demonstrates professionalism and appreciation for the opportunity. Additionally, if the position is your top choice, be transparent about it in your follow-up email.
Here’s an example of a follow-up email I sent to Honduras after my interview:
Example Email:
Subject: Follow-Up: Soto Cano Interview
MAJ [Last Name],
Thank you and your team for taking the time this morning to consider me for this incredible opportunity.
I have placed Soto Cano as my #1 option in the marketplace and am very enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I hope to hear from you later this week regarding your decision.
Thank you again, and have a great day!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
Other advice
1. Keep Your Chain of Command Informed
Ensure your chain of command is aware of your participation in the Marketplace and remind them periodically. Keep them updated on your progress and intentions. Some units may be understaffed and unable to release you, which could lead to them rejecting your participation. Be prepared for these conversations, as some units require Battalion Commander approval to partake in the Marketplace.
2. Be Ready for Conversations and Networking
Battalion Commanders often know one another and may call to discuss you. Make sure your Commander isn’t caught off guard by these discussions. Keeping open communication with your leadership can help set the stage for a positive recommendation.
3. Properly Address Individuals
Always address individuals by rank and name unless you are 100% certain of their gender. For example, use “MAJ [Last Name]” or “LTC [Last Name].” Misidentifying someone’s gender in communication can come across as careless and may create an uncomfortable situation, as I once experienced firsthand. Small details like this can make a significant impact.
4. Collaborate with Peers
While the Marketplace is competitive, don’t hesitate to discuss your experiences with peers. Sharing insights can be mutually beneficial. For instance, I interviewed for a position in Korea, but when I learned a BOLC classmate wanted the assignment to be closer to family while starting their own, I withdrew from consideration. This helped narrow down my choices while supporting a fellow officer.
5. Share Your Story
Don’t shy away from talking about yourself and your experiences during interviews. Your unique background and accomplishments set you apart from other candidates. Being confident in sharing your journey helps interviewers understand your value and commitment.
6. Mutual connections
It’s okay to reach out to a friend who may be in the unit you are interviewing for and put in a good word for you. Although Honduras was my #1, Germany was my #2 and the position was in the same Battalion my mentor was the Battalion S4 OIC. I called my mentor and he gave me insightful information on the unit and put in a good word for me to the Battalion XO. Before I knew it I received an email with a interview date and the BN XO expressed that he already had a potential top 3 list but because my mentor vouched for me he looked over my packet again. He did express valuable information expressing that my packet did not capture his eye because I didn’t express more of my hobbies/ civilian accomplishments outside of the military but because my mentor told him organizations and involvement I had in my community he was intrigued and when interviewing me he mentioned I needed to add more of my experiences on paper. At the end of our interview he asked me “If I ask you right now, who is your number #1 pick in the Market would you say it’s my unit?” I was very honest and said “no sir, my #1 in Honduras, Germany is my #2”. He appreciated my honestly and said he would place me as his #2 pick as well. This was one of my favorite interviews.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, this is all based on my personal experience and opinions. I added many real examples I used and experiences that did occur but everyone’s experience is unique. I was very fortunate to have a village of Officers and NCOs help guide me through as a junior 1LT making this process a lot smoother. I am even more appreciative that the Army created such an amazing opportunity. I believe it helps with retention by allowing us to take on a different opportunity and not base our entire army experience on one Battalion/ Brigade if individuals are having a hard time deciding to stay. Overall, I have benefited greatly from this opportunity and encourage those who are wanting to partake in their Mid-Marketplace to do so.
