Moving from the highly organized and disciplined world of the military to the less regimented, less strict, demands of civilian life can be difficult and somewhat confusing. 

 

Did you know…?

 

Each year over 250,000 military personnel and families leave the military. While some plan to go into full-time retirement, most intend to start a new career. Many of their spouses also are looking for jobs in order to make ends meat in these hard times of economic struggles.

 

Soldiers are faced with many challenges when they leave the military. Many of the developmental challenges they are face in civilian life include career choices, emotional instability from the war, childcare, social networking, and financial gains.  They have a lot on their plate.

 

Millions of these veterans are interested in changing jobs and careers. Many want to start their own businesses.  Faced with the overwhelming tasks of writing a resume, contacting potential employers, networking for information and referrals, or learning how to start and run a successful business, many veterans and their families need sound advice on how to best make it in the civilian world.  

 

As I mentioned in my other articles the military provides services to help coach and train you so you make the transition smoothly.   Unfortunately, many use that option as a last resort. Be smart and use your resources!

 

Let’s not forget….

 

Compared to the average civilian, military members move way ahead of their civilian counterparts. They have the upper hand. Military members have commitment to core values, great work ethic, trustworthiness and loyalty. Everything they do…working or training…is oriented to defend our country, so they develop a mindset of a winner. Second place is not an option.

 

Remember when you are looking for a career or starting a business you are not second best, you are the man on top.  You are the main burrito!

 

“I’m Home What Now?”

 

The first thing you should do is do your own research.  Go to your computer and get on the internet.

 

The best place to find the information you will need is on the internet:

 

The greatest amount of information regarding your transition from a military to civilian career is on the World Wide Web. The internet is where you can get tips on:

·    Writing resumes

·    Reviewing the details of others who have successfully left the military for corporate America

·    Posting your resume for interested employers

·    Recruiting specialists

 

The Internet can be the most powerful tool in your job search. Use it effectively, and your chances of finding the ideal civilian career are improved tremendously.

 

Where should you go? Go to the job boards.  They are very popular on the Internet; however, you need a resource that caters specifically to you as a job seeker leaving the military. Some of the most popular military transition websites include:

 

·          Military.LucasCareers.com

·          Transition Assistance Online

·          MilitaryHire.com

·          VetJobs.com

·          DOD Job Search

 

 

Another option on the internet is:

 

Recruiting Firms

 

Several recruiting firms online can help separating military job seekers find work. Many of them hire through conferences where employers and you are brought together for 2 to 3 days of interviews. Beforehand they will train you on interviewing skills, information on companies with whom they will be speaking, and what to expect throughout the process. Conferences are a great option to look into; it has been perfected over the years so that both you and employers get the most out of their experience. Prominent recruiting firms in the military transition discipline include:

 

·          Lucas Group

·          Orion International

·          Cameron-Brooks

·          Bradley-Morris

 

Information is at the fingertips of those who are prepared to work at finding their civilian career. Effective use of the Web can help you transition with ease. Researching Information gives you an idea of what to expect during your job search, and that gives you confidence. Check out some of the resources that I listed above, do not forget to search the Internet thoroughly, determine which services work best for you, and find that dream career! You are in control of your life, make the most of it.