How do I get promoted?

How hard is it/how long does it take to get promoted in the army from regular soldier?

• im 26, almost 27. ive had enough of normal jobs and life, been around, and now im getting as fit as possible so as to possibly join the forces. i am a very hard working, dedicated and honest person and i feel my skills would be of more use to the forces than any other job. if i was to go in as a regular soldier, what are the chances i could get promoted to officer status? some of my friends tell me the army and RAF are cutting back and they arent doing so well, and that there isnt much future in them. however i want to carve a true career path for myself, i just want to know what the prospects are. if i worked very hard and put everything into it and loved it, how long would it take?

• Answer:

  Too many many variables . Different trades and Arms have different time scales or Cadres needed for promotion. We have Privates in my Regiment with over 6-8 years experience. You are not going to join mine serve a year or two and get your first tape before any of them unless you are really outstanding. Obviously Infantry is the slowest for promotions and other trades such as MP will have tapes straight away. There is much future in them we will always have a Military don't worry about that. 27/28 year Enlisted Private would not be put forward for a Commission but if you Join now you would probably start training around 28 years old, still plenty of time to do the full 22 and retire as a WO1 with a good cash payoff and lifetime Military pension.