Career Transitioning Tips for Military Veterans

Tips for Connecting with Civilian Organizations

The civilian workforce can seem foreign to military veterans, especially if you have recently retired or separated from your branch of service. Luckily, there are several ways to connect with employers agreeable to veterans. Consider joining a local chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) or a local veterans organization such as American Legion. These organizations can get veterans involved in the civilian job market by hosting job fairs, providing mentorships, or connecting veterans with their peers or potential employers.

Utilizing Existing Military Training

Maybe your military experience is applicable to a similar job in the civilian sector. Chances are, your existing training, knowledge, and experience could be a great fit. Consider researching job opportunities for which you already have the necessary qualifications. Also, consider networking with former colleagues, both civilian and military. Talking to people in your field—or a similar field—can be an invaluable resource.

Rely on Your Professional Network

Building and maintaining strategic relationships can be key when transitioning from the military to a civilian job. Reach out to any professional contacts from your military career, like other veterans or former supervisors. Connecting with veterans is particularly helpful, as they may be able to offer advice from their own transition experience or share additional industry contacts.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Service members have numerous skills and strengths that can be easily applied to a civilian role. From project management to organizational techniques to initiative and leadership, your experience and abilities can set you apart from the competition and open up a broader range of employment options. Make sure your resume and application highlight these skills to help employers understand the value you can bring to the civilian workforce.

Gain Relevant Professional Experience

If your background isn’t in the same field as the job you’re applying for, you should supplement your skill set by gaining relevant experience. If you’re new to the industry, it may be a good idea to intern with an organization in the private sector or a government agency. Internships provide valuable experience and can help understand the civilian job market, while also providing valuable career contacts.

Take Civilian Job Interest Tests

If you’re unsure of the direction your career should take, consider taking a job interest test. Many colleges and universities offer free counseling services, which can help assess personal and professional interests and discover concepts outsides your existing knowledge base. Utilizing these tests can help identify job opportunities and inspire exploration into a new field.

Visit Your Local Professional Employment Office

No need to go through the veteran transition process alone. Get the help and support you need by visiting your local professional employment office. Professional employment offices specialize in assisting veterans transition into civilian employment. Receive advice from staff familiar with both the military and civilian job markets, preparing veterans for the unique challenges of coming up to speed in the civilian sector.