ABSTRACT

For all the American military branches, to include the Air Force, Army, Marine Corp, and Navy, it is critical to meet force requirements and maintain personnel for national security. With the transition to an all-volunteer force, recruiters have become an essential part of ensuring personnel strength needs are met. Psychologists have been involved in United States Army recruiting since early 2000. The current chapter outlines key aspects of recruiting and the psychologist's role in recruiting. We review recruiter selection, assessment and aptitude, recruiter training, major challenges faced by recruiters, recruiter motivation, the failing recruiter and recruiter resources, healthy work environments, ethics, and well-being, and discuss the healthy workplace and coaching for recruiting. Recommended best practices are discussed, including the growing role for psychologists and psychological resources.