How to ace the inspection: Some DO's and DON'Ts

  • Published
  • By 341st Missile Wing Plans and Programs staff
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  All of us have been working overtime since this summer with the increased focus on the nuclear mission, our monthly exercises and our renewed emphasis on the Self- Inspection Program. We're now ready to demonstrate to the inspectors how well we do our jobs. As we go into the final weekend before their arrival, here are a handful of DOs and DON'Ts to help you fine-tune your performance and polish any rusty areas.

1. DO keep a positive mental attitude as you go through the inspection. We are all experts and professionals in our own specific duties that we perform day in and day out. Continue to do the same job you've been doing. Don't change and don't get nervous just because you have inspectors looking over your shoulder.

2. DO use your checklists or Technical Order always. If you have one, use it. Every time. Remember you can also use the Airman's Manual 10-100; carry it with you throughout the exercises and inspection.

3. DO take your time to provide the right answer. If the inspector asks you a question, you do not have to spontaneously blurt out a response. If you're not exactly sure what the question is, ask the inspector to repeat the question. Still confused? Ask your supervisor to help clarify. If you don't know the answer, tell the inspector that you'll get him or her the answer. Don't rush; don't guess an answer. Take your time to provide the right answer.

4. DO clean up and pick up on a daily basis! Looks are important. Remember the old adage: "look good, feel good, do good." Walk around outside of your facilities on a daily basis to pick up debris. Shovel and remove snow or ice (if necessary). Clean up inside your facilities. Take out the trash on a daily basis. Keep a clean desk. And don't forget to clean up common areas, hallways, break rooms, etc.

5. DO display a sense of urgency all the time. If the inspectors discover a problem, correct what you can on the spot!

6. Finally, one DON'T: Don't argue with the Inspectors. If you have any disagreements, elevate your concerns or issues to your supervisor for assistance. The inspectors are experts in their field and that's why they're here inspecting us. If you have a different interpretation than the IG's, ask your supervisor for assistance. You'll need to use objective facts and not subjective arguments to win the disagreement.

We're all well prepared and ready to demonstrate our competencies. Let's show the Air Force Space Command inspectors just how good we are. Look good. Feel good. Do good.