Climate survey seeks Reservists' opinions, perceptions.

Unit Reservists and individual mobilization augmentees have an opportunity to give their opinions and perceptions on a wide range of issues by participating in the 2008 Air Force Climate Survey.

By seeking feedback from members of the Reserve, Air National Guard and regular Air Force, as well as civilian employees, the Air Force is trying to provide leaders at all levels with information they can use to improve their organizations and better accomplish the mission.

The survey, titled "Speak Today, Shape Tomorrow," began Oct. 1 and runs through Nov. 26 and is accessible only through the Air Force Portal. Individual e-mail invitations, which included a personalized link to the survey, were sent to everyone's military e-mail address. These links are not transferrable.

In the past, survey participation rates have averaged between 50 percent and 60 percent. This year the Air Force's goal is to increase that rate to at least 75 percent.

"As members of the Air Force Reserve Command, you have a great opportunity to influence how we do business now and in the future," said Lt. Gen. Charles E. Stenner Jr., AFRC commander. "In 2005, we experienced an overwhelming command-wide response to the survey. This high participation rate sent a clear message that our people are committed to improving our Air Force."

"By participating in the survey, you will provide critical information to leaders in your organization--officer, enlist ed and civilian alike--to make our Air Force a better place to work," said Chief Master Sgt. Troy J. McIntosh, AFRC command chief master sergeant.

"Since the survey software protects your identity, I encourage you to be honest and straightforward in your responses," the chief said. "The survey data will be as good as you make it. This is your opportunity to stand up and be counted."

One way to increase the participation rate is to make the survey easier and quicker to complete. The 2005 survey took anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes to complete. This year's survey is designed to take only about 15 to 20 minutes.

The survey team at the Air Force Manpower Agency has been working on an enhanced capabilities survey tool, producing a system that will assist the analysts in making reports available to Air Force leaders months earlier than before, said Col. Daniel Badger, AFMA commander. As a result, leaders will be able to respond and make necessary adjustment actions much sooner.

Prior to this year's survey, the Air Force gave AFRC an opportunity to submit a list of 10 questions designed specifically for Reservists. The questions will gather information related to civilian employers, Reservists' families, deployments, retention, the Reserve retirement system, and the relationship between Reservists and members of the regular Air Force.

(Staff reports)