Tips for new deputy commander

[CaptB]

I've recently taken on the job of deputy commander for seniors for my squadron. I'd appreciate any tips from veteran DCSs on best practices. The regs have no specific DCS job description, just a reference to the squadron commander's responsibilities.

Thanks

[Eclipse]

Well, you can start with the proper office symbol, which is CDS.

The reason there is no specific job description is that the job is the same as the Commander, with the asterisk of a specific area of focus.  At the most basic level your job is to represent the CC whenever he is unable to be present, and assist him in executing his vision of the mission.  The CDs are the "Joe Bidens" of the unit.

On a more practical level, most unit CC's will delegate some authority for specific duties, or assign specific staffers, to report to the CDS instead of him directly.  You should have discussions to determine what and where those boxes might be, and then make sure they are published for the unit members so there is no confusion.

Being a CDS infers you also have cadets, and a CDC.  Assuming that is the case, as important as defining delegated expectations, is defining what isn't in someone's sandbox.  It might seem like the lines are clear, but miscommunication in this area can cause a lot of issues if the CDS & CDC aren't working together.

Normally the area of cadet programs would be outside the CDS' wheelhouse, but since the seniors staffing the CP side are...seniors, their experience
and Professional Development will likely cross-over into the CDS' side at some point.  This is what leads some people to the incorrect conclusion that
the CDS is somehow "superior" to the CDC, which he is not.  They are equal in regards to authority and their status as Deputies.

Determining who is in command when the CC is not at a meeting or otherwise unavailable isn't a bad idea, either.

[keystone102]

Please have a heart to heart discussion with the Sqdn Commander asking him what is expected of you. He/she should be able to tell you what your duties and responsibilities are. Ask about Sqdn goals for the next year are and how you can assist in making them a reality.

Never question the Commander's decisions in public but you owe it to your organization to talk to the CO in private about your misgivings. 

[Private Investigator]

You should be getting groomed to eventually become the Squadron Commander.

Welcome aboard and good luck

[Cool Mace]

You should be getting groomed to eventually become the Squadron Commander.

No need to scare him away already. Give him some time. 

Talking with your CC will be the best place to start. Talking to him in private will be your best option, so the other seniors don't think you don't know what you're doing.