5-4. Context determines when a Soldier or DA Civilian is a leader or follower. A first sergeant receives guidance from the company commander as a follower and then as a leader translates that guidance to the platoon sergeants. As a leader, the first sergeant does not simply parrot the guidance received. The first sergeant translates the guidance into terms that are appropriate for the company NCOs in the context of other information received from the battalion command sergeant major and issues instructions that best meet the commander’s intent. The activity of influencing others depends on the followers’ knowledge, skills, and commitment level. The principles of mission command in ADP 6-0 inform the level of control leaders employ in a particular situation.