Navigating the Shift from Military to Civilian Workforce
Tony Grayson
VADM Stockdale Leadership Award Recipient | Tech and Business CxO | Ex-Submarine Captain | Top 10 Datacenter Influencer | Veteran Advocate
Embracing Change in the First 90-180 Days
Understanding the New Terrain
The first 90 to 180 days are crucial for shaping your new career path and ensuring a smooth transition. In this issue, we explore the nuances of civilian work culture, highlighting significant differences from military life, especially in leadership and organizational dynamics.
The Civilian Workforce: A Different Battlefield
Life in the civilian workforce often starkly contrasts with military service. Known for its rigid structure, clear hierarchy, and command-based leadership, the military differs from the often more collaborative and flexible dynamics of civilian workplaces. Successfully integrating into your new role hinges on understanding these critical differences.
Leadership: Adaptation is Key
Military leadership typically follows a directive style rooted in a well-defined chain of command. In contrast, civilian leadership usually embraces a more transformational and inclusive approach, focusing on team motivation through inspiration and shared goals. Though challenging, transitioning from a command-and-control style to a more consultative approach is vital for success in civilian roles.
Common Pitfalls: Avoiding the "Too Military" Label
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A frequent challenge for veterans is adapting their communication style and leadership approach. Those who overlook the need for this adaptation often encounter difficulties, being labeled as "too military." This perception can create organizational friction and, in some cases, lead to termination.
The Power of Learning and Asking Questions
Adopting a learning mindset is crucial to navigate these challenges. Take time to understand your new workplace's culture, your role's expectations, and your team's dynamics. Asking questions and seeking feedback is instrumental in adjusting your style and demonstrating your eagerness to integrate and respect the new work environment.
Making Your Mark: Impact with Insight
While the desire to make an immediate impact in a new role is natural, it's essential to balance this with understanding each organization's unique processes and politics. Implementing changes hastily, without fully grasping the context, often breeds resistance and setbacks. Focus instead on building relationships, grasping the subtleties of your role, and gradually introducing your ideas and perspectives.
Conclusion: A Journey of Adaptation and Growth
Transitioning from military to civilian life is a journey of adaptation, learning, and growth. You can make this transition rewarding and successful by acknowledging and embracing the differences, staying open to learning, and slowly integrating your military experience into your new role.
I help Service Academy Grads and their families buy and sell homes | CA & TX Realtor | Non-Profit founder serving the USNA Community ('17) | Military Spouse
1 年Great article! The Next Step program at The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth was extremely helpful for me in learning these differences and preparing to separate from the service.
Author of "The Silent Service's First Hero," Naval Historian, and Adjunct Naval History Professor
1 年I'll give the best thing that happened to me: stay in an area you served in. I stayed in an area where my unique skillset was in demand, and that has made all the difference. I get it, everyone wants to go back home. I did too. But staying in CT while working on my degree and maintaining my technical aptitude hard earned on submarines has gained me roots in a place I always loved and wanted to stay in.
Founder and Chief Trainer
1 年Great perspective Tony. I have been teaching transition to service members for 10 years. One thing I noticed among my trainees is that in the military they tend to focus on "the team accomplished that" vs "I accomplished that as an individual". Therefore when interviewing military folks tend to underplay their specific role in a significant accomplishment. The civilian work environment is also "team oriented" but they value individual accomplishment too. So when interviewing the transitioning military person needs to be able to communicate their own specific role in talking about results. I'm not saying come across as Rambo, but remember, the employer is hiring you as an individual contributor, not your "team". Just make sure you communicate your collaborative skills in addition to your personal attributes.
CEO & General Manager Australian IT Services / AFCOM Sydney Chapter President / Infrastructure Masons Australian Chapter Education Lead / iMasons 100 Award winner 2021
1 年Interesting piece Tony Grayson. I was only just talking to someone the other day about what the transition might be like. This is helpful and thanks for sharing!