What are some good tips for transitioning out of the military into a different career field?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:51:54 -0400

I’m currently transitioning out of the Army after 7 years as a 25U and am interested in the mental health field. I will have my BS in Family and Human Development come December 2018. I’m open to any and all tips to find that entry level job after being commo for 7 years. Ready, GO!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 1:14 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 13:14:00 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member Make sure that your resume is tailored for the position that you are applying for and use civilian terms to describe your Army duties. Research the company that you will go to work for so that you can explain how you will fit into their organization.

I transitioned in 1972 as a Field Radio Operator, with a goal of working for the Space Program. Knowing that I needed a degree, I applied along with 100 others for two openings at a chemical plant. I had done my research and was well prepared for three interviews along with a battery of tests. I landed the job and worked there while I worked on my degree. Five and a half years later, I had my degree, and applied with the Space Shuttle Program. Again, I was well prepared, and the fact that I had worked at a chemical plant did not matter. Planning and preparation are the keys to a successful career search.

Best of luck. Please keep us posted.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jul 12 at 2018 1:37 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 13:37:08 -0400

Remember your good habits. Get up early and make the most out of every day. You'll stay sharp and pick up on opportunities otherwise missed. Good nonMIL speak resume, check. Getting face time is essential. Laugh. Be approachable. People skills are essential in this line of work. My niece got two shrink rugs from Columbia and has now decided she doesn't like dealing with clients. She thinks that no experience with clients doesn't inhibit her in a job telling counselors what they should be doing. Don't be my niece. Remember how you started at the bottom? You know what it means. Not a hindrance in leaping into a new field.

Response by Jessica Luebke made Jul 12 at 2018 2:57 PM

Jessica Luebke — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 14:57:59 -0400

Please feel free to discuss with me via PM. Depending on what you have in mind for preferred location and career path/industry, I'm happy to connect you directly with some civilian recruiters as well.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 12 at 2018 6:18 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 18:18:52 -0400

Know how USA Jobs and Resumex work.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 12 at 2018 9:01 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 21:01:27 -0400

Pay attention during the Soldier For Life classes as you prepare to transition back to the civilian world. They will help you build a resume, including how to best advertise the skills you picked up in the Army/your MOS.

Response by SrA Sarah LaPlante made Jul 14 at 2018 2:25 PM

SrA Sarah LaPlante — Sat, 14 Jul 2018 14:25:50 -0400

While I was in I went from maintenance to communications. I got out with no degree and no where to go. I went to school got two Master's Degrees. One was in Addiction Studies. I used USA Jobs to find a job in the VA. Vocational Rehabilitation helped me with some of the Federal Forms I needed. Other than that I applied and got the interview and was hired on my merit.

Response by Georgeann Carter made Jul 17 at 2018 7:03 AM

Georgeann Carter — Tue, 17 Jul 2018 07:03:53 -0400

Please feel free to connect with me. I work closely with many different companies and depending on your preference of location and or industry preference I may be able to connect you with someone who can help you find exactly what you are looking for in this next chapter!!!! Thank you for your service!!!