Transitioning from Military to Civilian Job

I'm approaching the end of my military service and am wondering how to make a smooth transition to a civilian job. What steps should I start taking now, and are there resources that can help with this?

Creating a successful transition from military service into a civilian job requires strategic planning and the utilization of resources tailored for veterans.

First, don’t hesitate to start your transition preparations as early as possible - even a full year ahead is appropriate. This gives you ample time to research, network, and plan your career path post-military.

One key step is understanding how to translate your military skills and experiences to civilian terms. This can prove beneficial when updating your resume and optimizing it for civilian jobs. Try focusing on transferrable skills such as leadership, strategic planning, teamwork, handling pressure, or technical expertise.

Consider seeking guidance with job interviewing strategies, since civilian interviews can be quite different from military ones. Brushing up on common interview questions and working on your responses can help dramatically.

In terms of resources, you're in luck. There are numerous organizations dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian jobs:

1. The Department of Defense's Transition Assistance Program (TAP): This program offers several workshops and seminars aimed at helping you readjust to civilian life, including job search strategies and resume building.

2. Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS): A part of the Department of Labor, VETS offer resources to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume preparation, and job finding.

3. Hiring Our Heroes: This incredible initiative connects veterans with job opportunities through job fairs and an online job board.

4. American Corporate Partners (ACP): ACP provides veterans with mentors in the corporate world to guide them in their career transition.

Lastly, continue to leverage your network. Reach out to fellow veterans who have successfully transitioned to the civilian workforce. Their experiences, insights, and connections can be invaluable.