4 Steps to Figuring Out Your Career After the Military

As the holidays approach, I want to invite you to take time to reflect and plan for what’s next.

If you’re gearing up for your transition out of the military or thinking about pivoting your current career, now is the perfect moment to take that first step.

Today, I’m breaking it down into four actionable steps to get you started.

These steps will guide you through identifying your next career move and will be just as valuable whether you’re starting fresh or pivoting from your first post-military role.

1. Brainstorm Your Options

Start by asking yourself this fundamental question: “What do I want to pursue?”

Too often, we default to roles we held in the military, thinking it’s our only option. If you didn’t enjoy your role in uniform, chances are you won’t enjoy it in civilian life either. So let’s expand the possibilities:

• Write down any and all roles you might be interested in.
• Include entrepreneurial ideas, further education, or industries you’re curious about.

This list is your starting point, and seeing it visually—whether on paper or in a document—can clarify what excites you and what doesn’t.

2. Research One Role

Once you have your list, pick one role to research in-depth. For example: if “Project Manager” is on your list:

• Google job descriptions for that role.
• Identify the required skills (hard skills like software proficiency and soft skills like communication).
• Assess how your military experience aligns and where you may need additional training.

This step helps you refine what you truly want while giving you a clear idea of what’s required.

3. Consider Your Preferred Location Type

Where you work matters just as much as what you do. Think about these three common setups:

• On-site: You’re physically present every day (e.g., healthcare, manufacturing).
• Hybrid: A mix of remote and on-site work.
• Fully remote: Work from anywhere—your home, a coffee shop, or even while traveling.

Determine what works best for your family, mental health, and lifestyle. For example, remote roles offer flexibility but might lack in-person interaction. Research job postings based on your preferred setup to see what’s realistic for your goals.

4. Network with Purpose

Networking is the secret sauce to a successful transition. Yes, it can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to start:

• Connect with fellow veterans: Reach out to those who transitioned before you. Ask them, “How did you get into your current role?”
• Attend in-person events: Career fairs, veteran meet-ups, or industry-specific conferences are great ways to meet people face-to-face.
• Leverage LinkedIn: Follow leaders in industries that interest you, engage with their posts, and send connection requests with a simple note explaining your goals.

The key is to listen more than you talk. Ask thoughtful questions, and let people share their journeys—they’ll often connect you to others who can help.

Why Start Now?

Transitioning from the military is a major life change, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. These four steps—brainstorming, researching roles, assessing location types, and networking—will give you clarity and direction.

Start small, keep it simple, and take it one step at a time.

You’re building the foundation for a successful career that aligns with your strengths and passions.

With Appreciation,

Wendi

Tune in to full episode and originally written here:https://wendiwray.com/248

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I decide what career to pursue after the military?

Start by brainstorming all the roles or opportunities you’re interested in, even if they seem far-fetched. Don’t limit yourself to what you did in the military or what others suggest—this is your chance to explore. Write everything down, whether it’s a corporate role, entrepreneurship, or further education. Seeing these options visually can help you clarify what excites you and what doesn’t. Then pick one option and research it to see if it’s something you truly want to pursue.

2. I don’t know where to start—what’s the first step?

The first step is brainstorming. Write down a list of every career path, role, or opportunity that interests you. Then narrow it down to one option to research in more detail. Look up job descriptions for that role, identify the required skills, and see how your current skills align. This will give you clarity on whether it’s a realistic and exciting path for you.

3. How do I know if a job will be a good fit for me?

Think about whether the role aligns with your interests and values. If you didn’t enjoy your job in the military, transitioning to a similar role in the civilian world may not be the best choice. Research job descriptions to see the required skills and responsibilities, and be honest about whether they excite you. Also, consider the type of work environment (on-site, hybrid, or remote) that suits your lifestyle and goals.

Tune in to full episode and originally written here:https://wendiwray.com/248