https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A lot of veterans are unsure what direction to take once they are facing their military transition. They don’t know what they want to do, or even can do, once they get out. There can be many reasons. It may be because their career field isn’t applicable to the civilian world—I was a C-130 Navigator, so continuing along that path really wasn’t an option for me. It may be that they hate the career field they had in the military and want to do something different. Or it could even be that career field they want on the outside is not available in the part of the world they intend to settle down in.<br /><br />I want to offer a technique to the people facing this transition. That technique is networking. Other people will be the best resource you will have in order to find out what civilians do to pay their bills, what career field you might be interested in, and whether you have or can readily acquire the skills necessary to join that career field. <br /><br />So how and where do you go about this ‘networking’ to find the answer to what you want to do on the outside? Start with the civilians around you—friends who are on the outside, civilian neighbors, and family. When you know what everyone close to you does and how they like it, start branching out. <br /><br />The next great place is your local Chamber of Commerce. It’s full of business owners and sales reps for the companies in your community and the immediate area surrounding you. Listen to the variety of jobs that are out there! By and large, the people that you meet at Chamber events (many events will be free and might even treat you to complimentary coffee or drinks) are passionate about what they do. Ask them how long they’ve been in their field, how they like it, if they would recommend it, what a typical day is like, and even possibly how much it pays (but be careful how you broach this subject). <br /><br />There is also a worldwide business networking organization called BNI, Business Networking International. Much like a Chamber, it is full of passionate business owners, employees and sales reps who are happy to tell you all about their jobs. Just do a search online to find your local chapters and ask a member if you can be their guest. They will scream YES (and might even hug you), because they are encouraged to bring guests. You’re doing them a favor by asking to be their guest. Be prepared to talk a little about yourself and even what opportunities you are searching for. Members of those groups will often crowdsource great candidates for open positions within their companies at those very meetings.<br /><br />Now about the geography question… If you don’t want to stay in the community of your final duty location, you have probably picked your new home because you have ties to that community—your hometown, your spouse’s hometown, etc. Start pressing that network for opportunities, go visit their Chamber or other networking groups in that community, and make connections on RallyPoint or on LinkedIn with folks who live and work there. That’s even easier if you have an idea of what you want to do or a company you’d like to work for already. Just reach out to people in that career field in that town or in that dream company. <br /><br />I’ve heard it said that 80% of jobs are never posted. So where do companies get their employees 80% of the time? From the networks of their employees, families, and friends.<br /><br />Happy Networking! Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:44:45 -0500 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A lot of veterans are unsure what direction to take once they are facing their military transition. They don’t know what they want to do, or even can do, once they get out. There can be many reasons. It may be because their career field isn’t applicable to the civilian world—I was a C-130 Navigator, so continuing along that path really wasn’t an option for me. It may be that they hate the career field they had in the military and want to do something different. Or it could even be that career field they want on the outside is not available in the part of the world they intend to settle down in.<br /><br />I want to offer a technique to the people facing this transition. That technique is networking. Other people will be the best resource you will have in order to find out what civilians do to pay their bills, what career field you might be interested in, and whether you have or can readily acquire the skills necessary to join that career field. <br /><br />So how and where do you go about this ‘networking’ to find the answer to what you want to do on the outside? Start with the civilians around you—friends who are on the outside, civilian neighbors, and family. When you know what everyone close to you does and how they like it, start branching out. <br /><br />The next great place is your local Chamber of Commerce. It’s full of business owners and sales reps for the companies in your community and the immediate area surrounding you. Listen to the variety of jobs that are out there! By and large, the people that you meet at Chamber events (many events will be free and might even treat you to complimentary coffee or drinks) are passionate about what they do. Ask them how long they’ve been in their field, how they like it, if they would recommend it, what a typical day is like, and even possibly how much it pays (but be careful how you broach this subject). <br /><br />There is also a worldwide business networking organization called BNI, Business Networking International. Much like a Chamber, it is full of passionate business owners, employees and sales reps who are happy to tell you all about their jobs. Just do a search online to find your local chapters and ask a member if you can be their guest. They will scream YES (and might even hug you), because they are encouraged to bring guests. You’re doing them a favor by asking to be their guest. Be prepared to talk a little about yourself and even what opportunities you are searching for. Members of those groups will often crowdsource great candidates for open positions within their companies at those very meetings.<br /><br />Now about the geography question… If you don’t want to stay in the community of your final duty location, you have probably picked your new home because you have ties to that community—your hometown, your spouse’s hometown, etc. Start pressing that network for opportunities, go visit their Chamber or other networking groups in that community, and make connections on RallyPoint or on LinkedIn with folks who live and work there. That’s even easier if you have an idea of what you want to do or a company you’d like to work for already. Just reach out to people in that career field in that town or in that dream company. <br /><br />I’ve heard it said that 80% of jobs are never posted. So where do companies get their employees 80% of the time? From the networks of their employees, families, and friends.<br /><br />Happy Networking! Capt Julie McAdoo Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:44:45 -0500 2016-02-09T15:44:45-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1290991&urlhash=1290991 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If ever there was a dilemma I faced, it's this one... SFC Michael Hasbun Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:47:12 -0500 2016-02-09T15:47:12-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291001&urlhash=1291001 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Wow, thank you Captain Julie. What great insight. Your article is going to be very insightful and helpful for those in transition.<br /><br />Jay<br />Gr8Transitions4u.com LTC Jay Hicks Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:51:18 -0500 2016-02-09T15:51:18-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291013&urlhash=1291013 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I agree, it took me around 6 months to Adjust, I went back home, and found that my previous employment was gone, so I returned to my separation Post and was fortunate to score a Job at Ft. Riley and worked for 6 1/2 years at main post motor pool, that kept me close to my military roots, during the time there was able to develop marketable civilian skills, and when returning to my home of record, Joined Veterans organizations, and started networking. Great Post! SPC Paul Tillson Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:56:53 -0500 2016-02-09T15:56:53-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291020&urlhash=1291020 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Great article. I bounced around between construction jobs, hotel desk clerk, airport lineman before finally landing my "all grown up" job...via a contact in the Reserves. It's all about being at the right place/right time. LCDR Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 09 Feb 2016 15:59:36 -0500 2016-02-09T15:59:36-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291022&urlhash=1291022 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Very good information to follow. SSG Audwin Scott Tue, 09 Feb 2016 16:00:36 -0500 2016-02-09T16:00:36-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291091&urlhash=1291091 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="20308" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/20308-capt-julie-mcadoo">Capt Julie McAdoo</a> Great Command Post! I just had a great discussion with <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="303966" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/303966-sgt-jason-noma">SGT Jason Noma</a> about your statement here: &quot;I’ve heard it said that 80% of jobs are never posted. So where do companies get their employees 80% of the time? From the networks of their employees, families, and friends.&quot; <br /><br />Many folks throw in the towel on roles they think are already filled. What I wish more veterans would understand, is that there is always a place for all-star talent in organizations and they are ALWAYS looking. When you talk to a recruiter about a position, he or she is usually thinking 10 steps ahead of you and potentially well beyond the role you&#39;re applying for. Impress everyone you interact with...you never know what door will open when you never let any close. Capt Brandon Charters Tue, 09 Feb 2016 16:28:52 -0500 2016-02-09T16:28:52-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291140&urlhash=1291140 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think you make some great points, but there is a HUGE piece of information missing! Yes, you can learn a lot about what JOBS are out there through networking, but what do you learn about YOU?? I absolutely believe you have to start with yourself. What lights you up? What do you do that makes you lose all track of time? What do you love doing so much that you&#39;d do it for free? <br />What do you value? What are your strengths? <br />These questions can help you get to your passion and purpose. Then networking can help you &quot;narrow and name.&quot; I apply the 3 Ns with my clients: Notice (what lights you up? What raises your energy? etc) Narrow (narrow down your interests to those that most interest you) and the final step is Name - that&#39;s when you really zero in. But without first figuring out your interests, strengths and values, you can chase all kinds of things only to do them and a few years in find yourself miserable! Vikki Nicometo Tue, 09 Feb 2016 16:58:19 -0500 2016-02-09T16:58:19-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291270&urlhash=1291270 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Good post Ma'am! My advice for folks is to think about what they are interested in, i.e., their dream job. Then determine the skills and education required for that position, obtain them, and then to go get that job. I worked and attended college. When I obtained my degree, I went to work at my dream job. Sgt Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 09 Feb 2016 18:01:58 -0500 2016-02-09T18:01:58-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291663&urlhash=1291663 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think passion is a big variable. MAJ Ken Landgren Tue, 09 Feb 2016 20:59:58 -0500 2016-02-09T20:59:58-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1291868&urlhash=1291868 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I got my current job by networking. I was transitioning out of the Reserves and as a Technician was going to lose my civilian job too. I started looking for something well in advance of transition but really wasn't sure what I wanted to do and all I'd done in the Military was HR which is not always an easy transition. I knew my now civilian boss from the Army and he convinced me I should consider Project Management... Wait what? I know nothing about that how would I be a PM? SO after some googling (it's pretty amazing), some reading and an interview that I had no idea what to say in so it's a good thing he had faith I kind of stumbled into IT Project Management. <br /><br />The first few months on the job were a blur, I learned more than I ever thought I would about computer programming and stuff. I spent way too long asking my boss how things worked and I kind of stumbled through the first project BUT it was fun, and I had a great team who helped me out. I'm now working on a new project, it's way easier the second time around and I still love what I'm doing and I still have a pretty amazing team (who voluntarily came back).<br /><br />The morale of this post is sometimes you have to trust people who see something that you don't and sometimes you should take a jump out of the comfort zone. Networking works if you let it and opportunities sometimes aren't what you thought. CPT Catherine R. Tue, 09 Feb 2016 22:34:10 -0500 2016-02-09T22:34:10-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1292067&urlhash=1292067 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="20308" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/20308-capt-julie-mcadoo">Capt Julie McAdoo</a> - Recommend you take a look at the series (2) of articles posted by @LTC Chad Storlie --both speak exactly to your question. Capt Mark Strobl Wed, 10 Feb 2016 01:34:59 -0500 2016-02-10T01:34:59-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1294495&urlhash=1294495 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>OMGgoodness, TY Captain, your timing to share is impeccable. Chamber of Commerce, eh? Eye opening, never considered it. Ironically, before I even read your post, I was netsurfing my local CoC. <br /><br />I'm in the process of reinventing myself w/a dreamy bucket list oooooozing w/possibilities. I was a cop (civ/mil) 10 yrs. Been there, done that. OK, so now what? Became a cyber security engineer after using Post 9/11 G.I. Bill for BS/Certs for those careers. While both fields are my "niche" per se, my faith in the core roots has always driven my passions.<br /><br />SOOO, there's a military chaplaincy "calling" I've had 18 years (EIGHTEEN YEARS!)! Currently researching various chaplaincy options, either volunteer or paid positions (Local PD, hospitals, etc.) thru CoC as Plan B. <br /><br />Was injured on active duty, 3 spine surgeries these past 2 years, 8-10" of new bionic titanium support me. VA assigned a TEMP disability at 100%. Fully aware hurdles will try to defeat our Creator. God is bigger than any hurdle formed against me, according to Scripture. <br /><br />Response from former troops is nothing short of phenomenal and have reached out in exclamatory support, "I knew it SSgt Lane! I just knew it! There was just something different about you, esp on those deployments." I'm left bewildered, thinking, "why didn't you say so back then when I was contemplating seminary school?" Well, don't we all know, it's all in God's creative timing.<br /><br />Life has come full circle all before I turn 40 ;) My prayer is that each of our troops past, present and future, choose to live life in abundance by consciously making a daily choice to live in forgiveness spawning greater joy, love AND likeness for all. It's NEVER too late to hit your reset button. SSgt Anne Moor-Lane Thu, 11 Feb 2016 08:12:54 -0500 2016-02-11T08:12:54-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1296533&urlhash=1296533 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Very good advice. In my former military career field, there really isn't a large demand for M1A1 Tank Commanders out there.. SFC John Birks Thu, 11 Feb 2016 22:18:06 -0500 2016-02-11T22:18:06-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1300070&urlhash=1300070 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have been retired since 2007 and still have not figured that out or whether I want to or have to grow up. COL Ronald Diana Sat, 13 Feb 2016 13:27:34 -0500 2016-02-13T13:27:34-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1345424&urlhash=1345424 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Great Post! If I can add a plug for using LinkedIn, I recommend anyone transitioning, getting ready to transition or already in the work place look at LinkedIn. One of my recruiter friends told me the other day that 90+% of their recruiting is done using LinkedIn. Their recommendation is to research the company or the job you want and take a look at the profiles of those who are already working there. Look specifically at how they describe themselves, their skills and accomplishments. <br /><br />Craft your profile (don't make up stuff) to mimic how theirs looks. Focus on skills, key words applicable to the job you want and accomplishments. Take a look at recommendations they give to another person, not recommendations they get. Recommendations a person gets, tell about that person -- Recommendations you give tell others who you really are as a person. My rule of thumb is that you should give at least three recommendations for every recommendation you get. Lastly, don't just say that the person did a good job. Use key words applicable for their field and be specific as to what they accomplished. Ultimately, an employer wants the best person. Be that person. MAJ Private RallyPoint Member Tue, 01 Mar 2016 20:25:33 -0500 2016-03-01T20:25:33-05:00 https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/how-to-figure-out-what-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up-er-transition-out-of-the-military?n=1365003&urlhash=1365003 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Well stated, <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="20308" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/20308-capt-julie-mcadoo">Capt Julie McAdoo</a> Appreciate the Open honesty! SSgt Obom Bowen Tue, 08 Mar 2016 18:41:15 -0500 2016-03-08T18:41:15-05:00 2016-02-09T15:44:45-05:00