Military Transition and the Fight to be Employed after the Service.

Many service members getting ready to leave the military are hoping that they will land their dream job. It is a belief that being in the military will have employers screaming to have veterans in their corporation. This may be true; however, a cautionary tale exists where it takes more than years of service to find the next career opportunity. 

Transitioning service members are told to start applying early when they know they will be exiting the service. 60-90 days out is the typical recommendation. They are also advised to build a LinkedIn profile. Network early and often. Communicate to folks in the industry. All good pointers until the reality kicks in that although many corporations will say "veteran friendly" and post jobs members hope to acquire, there are many barriers that will prevent them from getting that job.

What many veterans are not told is that even with their skills, education, knowledge, and abilities matching many of the job postings, they will not receive a response from many of these companies-- much less get hired. Or you will receive messages from recruiters saying "We were impressed with your qualifications and skills. After careful evaluation of other qualified candidates, we have made the difficult decision to move forward with another candidate who we feel best matches the job requirements for this position." What many veterans are not told is that their service to this great nation alone is not enough to get them hired--though there have been initiatives to hire more veterans.

Transitioning service members must be resilient. Just like in the military. There will be disappointments along the journey of finding a new career, but they should continue applying. Every rejection letter is motivation to revisit and tailor the resume. Remember, no two job postings are the same. Therefore, your resume should be unique to the position you are applying for. Never forget that everyone fails at something in life. Getting rejected is part of life. But one must continue the search, continue networking, continue developing new skills and soon the right opportunity will present itself. 

The job market has been disrupted by Covid-19 which has made finding a career after the military much harder. Yes, it is frustrating. But in all you do as a transitioning service member, never quit. Never stop applying. Never stop networking. Continue refining your LinkedIn profile. Continue seeking out members in the companies you are applying to. Seek mentors who will guide you through this process. They know a few things and people who may be able to help you. Today is not the day to stop fighting for that job, transitioning service member. Soon you will land the career that is best for you and your family.