Transition Is Not Over When You Get Out Of The Military

Many Veterans transitioning out of the military think, this is it! I am done! No more travel and being away from family. I get to pick my last dream job and settle down. But the world outside of the military is very competitive and fast-paced. Companies are looking for the greatest talent, breakthrough ideas, and how to save money while embracing technology at the same time. It can be like getting caught up in a whirlwind. Are you ready for that?

The truth is you may still transition several times. Companies are always outsourcing and merging. Many startup companies fail. A company that you choose for the money they offer may not end up being the right fit for you. There are lots of things to consider.

I personally have transitioned several times after the military, and not all by choice. I have been caught up in a couple of layoffs, which is scary when you have bills to pay and a family to feed.

The only way to survive is the network of people around you. When you get out of the military you are told many things like create your personal brand, build a strong network, treat finding a job as your job, and more. All of that is true.

As you do these things realize some key points:

NEVER stop networking, the bigger your network grows the more help you can find when you need it.

Be sure the company is a fit for you before accepting an offer, Otherwise, it won't be long before you find yourself moving on.

Continue your learning! Companies love to see that you are interested in personal growth, and it makes you more desirable and marketable.

Participate in all the free programs out there for Veterans that help you move towards success, finding your passion, and your dream job.

Here are some things I strongly recommend you check out:

Project Transition USA is a top rated LinkedIn workshop hosted on MacDill AFB and created by Nancy Laine (https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/nancylaine/) to teach transitioning U.S. military, veterans, and their families how to use LinkedIn to create a powerful profile, to network like an expert, and to find a great new career. I am an Associate Instructor.

FourBlock is a national Veteran Career Readiness Program for student Veterans. It covers the full range of things a transitioning Veteran needs to know such as building a brand, interviewing, networking, salary negotiation, and more. Additionally, classes are held at corporate sponsors offices where the student Veterans can network with the companies that are interested in helping and hiring them. I am an Associate Instructor.

Veterati is a place for Veterans to find multiple mentors in any industry they are interested in. It is easy to use and a great way to network, learn, and make new connections. I am a mentor.

ACP is another great mentorship program, but they do things a bit differently. Here you can choose a mentor and that mentor is your mentor for a full year.

There are so many people and programs out there to help you. These are my favorites, but utilize them all to your advantage. In the end, the degree of your success depends on the work you put into being successful.

Reach out to me on LinkedIn and let me know if there is something specific that I can help you with: https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/peteblum/