February 15, 2017, by Eileen O’Shanassy – After you return home from serving your country, it may be hard to get back into the groove of an everyday civilian. Many servicemen and women do not have the skills or preparation to uncover a good job, which is why many will be unemployed or underemployed immediately following their time in the military. Here are some tips to help servicemen find the right career after active duty.
Learn Networking Skills
The best way to find a solid job is to learn how to network efficiently. Talking to individuals in various fields and administrative levels will get the word out that you are searching for work. It is helpful to tell your friends and family members about your skills and the job that you are most interested in pursuing. It is also wise to take advantage of job assistance resources. Many organizations offer free workshops and seminars that help veterans find worthwhile employment. In many instances, veterans who received honorable discharges qualify for government positions as well.
If you have a desired career in mind, networking in the proper circles is essential. For example, if you are interested in teaching, you should speak with local school district officials. If you prefer technology and enjoy working with heavy equipment, you may wish to enter the computer repair field. For example, many truck drivers have satellite televisions in their cabs. Speaking with them about their service providers like EpicVue may put you in contact with a possible employer and you can learn how to install TV for semi trucks and other skills in computer technology.
Improve Your Resume
Most human resource managers require job applicants to submit resumes. A resume is a way to introduce yourself to a prospective employer. To make a good first impression, it is vital to have a resume that does more than list your skills. It must reflect your personality and your future goals. The library is sure to have many references that will explain how to construct a resume that stands apart from the rest. It does not have to be pages long. However, it must offer insight about what you can do to raise a company’s bottom line. You should also sell yourself on an individual level.
Hone Interview Skills
Since many military men who exit active service are older than conventional college graduates, they may be nervous and unprepared to face a potential employer during a job interview. Since body language speaks volumes, it is vital to dress well and exude confidence. Also, it is best to speak corporate language instead of military jargon. For instance, avoid using confusing language about your rank and explain your area of expertise in layman’s terms.
Although it is not always simple to find the right career after active duty, the above tips should help to get you on the right track. The real world is much different than life in the military. The best advice is to apply all the planning and preparation skills that you have learned. With a bit of effort, you will be able to succeed in a fulfilling career.
Author Bio: Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy.