TRANSITION GUIDE 2017 T
For many, this is perhaps the fi rst time in which major career choices need to be made that don’t involve an
assignment offi cer: Q when (or if) to relocate, Q identifying and considering avail-
able job opportunities, Q determining whether to pursue ad-
ditional education or training, and Q assessing which industries present
the best economic outlook. Ways to resolve these common concerns might not be immedi- ately clear. There’s a great deal of information available online, but that can be a double-edged sword. What sources are reliable? What is the best way to gather data and facts? What about information that sounds good but might, in fact, lead down the wrong path? Fortunately, a successful transition
doesn’t require special knowledge or skills. A few key steps can provide a framework on which to construct a great transition. Executing them in the correct order is important.
64 MILITARY OFFICER MAY 2017
ransitioning from military service to the civilian job market can be an exciting time. Post-military careers encompass a dizzying array of options and leverage a broad range of skills derived from state-of-the-art training and experience. Low veteran unemployment rates refl ect available career options well beyond tra- ditional military job fairs and employment websites.
Step 1: Strategy Too often, transitioning veterans rush into the transition process without a clear objective. If the goal is to attract the attention of a desired employer or company, it is important to have an understanding of what that particular employer is seeking. An across-the- board, “I can do anything!” approach might seem reasonable, but it isn’t actually very helpful to a prospective employer trying to assess specifi c skills required for their needs. A clearly defi ned objective — either a specifi c position (e.g., project man- ager) or type of industry (say, health care or logistics) — allows a candidate to properly present key strengths and skills in a way an employer can un- derstand and appreciate.
Step 2: Networking This step might surprise many of those in transition, especially those with a tendency to initially focus on their résumé. The single most impor- tant facet of the job-search process
PHOTOS/IMAGES: TKTK
is networking. However, it often is ignored or not made a priority. Net- working simply is leveraging new and existing relationships — relationships that are casual and professional in na- ture. Networking already is something most people do without realizing it: for example, when searching for the best school for their children, when looking for a reliable air-conditioning technician, or when exploring options for a new or used car. Networking is
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