I’m interested in working abroad once I leave the military. What are the best resources or strategies for finding jobs overseas that value military experience? Any personal stories or tips would be great!
One of the most common resources for ex-military personnel looking for overseas employment is private security firms. These firms often have contracts with various government organizations and private entities globally, making them a suitable option for those with military experience. GardaWorld and DynCorp are two such firms you might want to look into.
The U.S. government also often has overseas jobs that could be a good fit for those with military backgrounds. The Department of State regularly posts a variety of international job vacancies on their website and they value military experience. In addition, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) hires ex-military personnel for roles in international development and disaster assistance.
Leveraging networking communities specifically tailored to military individuals can be extremely valuable. Veteran's groups and organizations like the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and even LinkedIn have military-specific networking groups. These can be great resources for job opportunities, as well as for advice and support from individuals who have successfully transitioned into overseas civilian roles.
Don't forget to consider international aid organizations such as the Red Cross or UNICEF. These organizations tend to value the kind of practical skills and the ability to operate in high-stress and unpredictable environments that many military veterans bring to the table.
You should also utilize military transition assistance programs that offer workshops and counseling on job search strategies and career decisions, some of which specifically target overseas opportunities.
Remember to tailor your resume to highlight the skills you've gathered through military service that would be valuable to your preferred overseas role. For instance, leadership, crisis management, strategic planning, and cross-cultural communication are all skills highly prized by many employers.
And lastly, consider reaching out to a recruitment agency that specializes in placing ex-military personnel in civilian jobs. They should be able to guide you through the job search process and give you specific advice based on their experience and understanding of the job market.
It's significant to remember that transitioning from the military into civilian life overseas will have its challenges, but your military experience has equipped you with unique skills that are highly valuable in various fields. Wishing you the best in your job hunt!
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