What is the hardest part about transitioning into the civilian life? Personally I'm scared and excited all at once.

SSG John McCammon — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:32:45 -0500

Response by SSG Billy Falla made Feb 12 at 2016 12:49 AM

SSG Billy Falla — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:49:40 -0500

Definitely finding a job

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Feb 12 at 2016 12:56 AM

Capt Brandon Charters — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:56:12 -0500

The hardest part for me was just learning what to expect from professional work relationships and understanding the new things that come with being a civilian: private healthcare, company benefits, civilian retirement plans, etc. It can be overwhelming, but ask lots of questions and don't feel like you're being a burden. I'm usually straightforward with most folks..."I apologize, I've never dealt with this on active duty so I'm still getting up to speed. Do you mind reviewing this with me?" This has never been met with a negative response and I think most people appreciate you being direct and not hiding your lack of knowledge. Interviews are a slightly different situation, and you should handle those with a high level of confidence while still remaining honest with yourself. The main thing to keep in mind is to find some time to really reflect on what you're passionate about outside the military. This will keep you from jumping into a career that you really don't want. Wishing you the very best on this next big step!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 12:56 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:56:54 -0500

Getting used to lazy and inefficient co workers.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Feb 12 at 2016 12:56 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:56:58 -0500

Once you get a job you will be too busy to worry about the rest. Getting a job is the biggie.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Feb 12 at 2016 1:26 AM

Capt Mark Strobl — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 01:26:38 -0500

I had two problems:
1.) Listening to someone say "that's not in my job description." Until the regional director told me that this was not grounds to discontinue a professional relationship, I had sent three guys to the unemployment lines.
2.) Trusting you buddy. Sure, there are plenty of Blue Falcons in the ranks. But, trust me: There are flocks of Blue Falcons in the civilian world. Learn who you can trust. Chances are pretty good they're a fellow vet.

Response by SFC Carlos Gamino made Feb 12 at 2016 1:41 AM

SFC Carlos Gamino — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 01:41:51 -0500

Good thing about being a civilian is that you can make your own choices, most important is taling care of your family and not having a PLT tobeorry about. You won't hear, take care of your soldiers. One thing that bothered me was having older jr enlisted and they acted like if they didn't know any better.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 2:35 AM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 02:35:17 -0500

It is normal to be scared and excited at the same time. Find a career that you love, stay busy, and the rest will fall into place.

Response by SSG Ian Chapman made Feb 12 at 2016 4:22 AM

SSG Ian Chapman — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 04:22:32 -0500

Nothing, accept you're not allowed to fuck idiots up and just keep the dedication we all develop but aim it toward school, your new job, ect. Save money now and prepare for financial burden but as stated keep your determination and dedication and remember you literal were taught the biggest skill anywhere. To be respectful and not be a whining useless moron.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 12 at 2016 4:55 AM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 04:55:07 -0500

Even for a Reserve guy it was tough. After over 22yrs of service - one day you're doing your thing, the next day there is nothing! I never realized how much time I spent doing Reserve work during my time. There were some weekends I'd spend a full weekend at home doing nothing by Reserve work. Almost every evening I was on the net (after I got to NCOIC position) answering mail, doing power point, preparing for the next Corps exercise.
I can't imagine going from AD to retirement - and finding something to do. I was lucky I had a job and some hobbies to take over with. Good luck SSG John McCammon and enjoy it.

Response by SFC Jim Mergott made Feb 12 at 2016 6:02 AM

SFC Jim Mergott — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 06:02:41 -0500

Be very carful how you verbally communicate with civilians in the work place. Especially if you are a supervisor. They are "soft" with their feelings.

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Feb 12 at 2016 6:04 AM

SSG Stan Morrison Jr — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 06:04:36 -0500

The people you end up working for may have zero military experience. They dont have any idea about "lead by example". At my current employment my immediate supervisor fives himself the easiest work every day, leaving me to do his work. It absolutely slays me.

Response by SCPO Jason McLaughlin made Feb 12 at 2016 7:03 AM

SCPO Jason McLaughlin — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 07:03:04 -0500

Understanding the difference between Leadership and Management. Realizing that every problem is NOT a nail, so a hammer is not the only tool you need in your tool box. Writing a resume that resonated in the civilian world. If you are an 11C, how are you going to translate "blowing shit up" into a skill people who don't "blow shit up" can recognize and respect?

One recommendation. Change your appearance. Longer hair, moustache, beard, something. If you wake-up every morning seeing the same person you've seen for the last 20 years, it will make the letting go part of your transition that much more difficult.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Feb 12 at 2016 7:28 AM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 07:28:49 -0500

"Culture Shock."

We all experienced it when we joined. But it was controlled through the Entry Process. They took a civilian and changed them into a Service Member. When you get out, there is no "Process." One day you are a Soldier, and the next you are a Veteran, which will never quite be a "Civilian" again.

I describe it as being a "Foreigner in our own land."

The military provides "structure" to almost every aspect of our lives. Schedules, vacations, pay, everything. Getting out... little things like having more than one "boss" will drive you nuts. Especially at first.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Feb 12 at 2016 8:15 AM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 08:15:29 -0500

Unless you are surrounded by Veterans, NO ONE cares that about what you did prior to joining 'their' world. As far as a job, it is tough out there, you would be way better served getting settled and start using your GI Bill ASAP! Use it to do something that YOU have always wanted to become and don't settle for anything less! Good luck brother!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 8:15 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 08:15:45 -0500

Just be prepared to make decisions on your on.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Feb 12 at 2016 8:43 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 08:43:03 -0500

Job security! Once you lock in a job and where you plan on living, things will start to get better for you.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 9:01 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:01:52 -0500

Well, with military transitioning to civilian life, you can put up with a certain level of BS. Somethings you see or hear doesn't make sense due to training that you've acquired during your time in. Some of the civilians feel they are better than you at some point and time.

Response by SSG John Caples made Feb 12 at 2016 9:13 AM

SSG John Caples — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:13:18 -0500

Getting used to civilians

Response by 1SG Paul DeStout made Feb 12 at 2016 9:13 AM

1SG Paul DeStout — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:13:45 -0500

I think the hardest part for me was getting to know who Paul was. I knew who 1SG DeStout was but I hadn't been Paul since high school.

Response by Vikki Nicometo made Feb 12 at 2016 9:18 AM

Vikki Nicometo — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:18:28 -0500

This is a fantastic question. Please let me know if I can offer any advice on the job search.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 9:22 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:22:59 -0500

I quit a job being an arcade manager. I couldn't put up with the greedy little brats saying that the games took their tokens, when it was obvious that they were working and only wanted a free play. With the children I saw over there, I snapped and politely unloaded on one of the brats. Then his mother confronted me about an employee calling her son a lier. I then politely unloaded on her too. I then called my manager and explained the situation and told him I needed to be replaced, because it was going to happen again. You can not give good customer service if you are angry at everyone you see as trying to take advantage of the system.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 9:24 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:24:12 -0500

For me the hardest part is having to deal with civilians. They do not operate the same as military members. They have different agendas and in my experience have no honor. It's dog eat dog and there's little team work if any.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Feb 12 at 2016 9:37 AM

Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:37:03 -0500

The hardest part was my objective to have a good job waiting for me shortly after the transition. Your retirement or separation is a set date which you can't modify once you go down that route. I was looking for work in the Civil Service and the unit I was looking at was only hiring GG-12s at the time. In fact, there were few 13s and 14s being advertised in my area. So I took the 12 because I was worried I would have too much of a gap between retiring and starting my new job. I ended up with a 6 day gap and I managed to get promoted to 13 in less than a year.

Best I can say is be prepared for that gap but don't settle if you can spare the time. If you work hard enough to have the right job waiting before the retirement/separation date, you're good to go.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 9:54 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:54:47 -0500

I think it matters a great deal if the transition was a result of a successful plan to retire, leave at EOS, etc...or if someone is transitioning due to budget cuts, being "passed over", etc. In my case, I hadn't thought about any sort of life beyond the Navy, and had no real plan initially. Once I got passed that, and got serious about making the civilian thing "work" for me...the most difficult challenge was accepting that out "here", I was a "noob" again. People younger than me, were none the less more qualified/experienced...I was loading copper trucks in Tupelo reminding myself that it was all part of "paying dues" for a new challenge.

A couple years into it...it was accepting that I was NOT "Lieutenant-Commander Gillespie" anymore; despite the fact that it was all too easy to let well-intentioned friends and family continually "remind" me that I had been. You have to watch that...because sometimes, it's harder for them to accept who you have to become...than it is to accept who you were.

Now, I'd like to think I've figured it out...somewhat. It's true that if I were to be sent back to a ship tomorrow, I'd probably keel over from a heart attack in thirty days of sea duty. Were I to have to go back to Afghanistan and do what I did at twenty-eight, I'd last about half as long. Still, I am not, and never can be 100% 'civilian'...and that's OK...even great. The lessons I learned from 17-30 still serve me well in my civil career, and provide a strong link to traditions, culture and memory that often fills in the "gaps" of what could have been an otherwise mediocre start in life. Yes, I had to "start over"...but the second trip was a much faster/productive one than the first. I may not be "That Guy" anymore...but I'll always be a Sailor.

Response by SPC James Dollins made Feb 12 at 2016 9:58 AM

SPC James Dollins — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 09:58:45 -0500

I was the same way. I would say finding work would've probably been the most difficult for me. Along with the fear of change. Luckily I didn't have to worry about that though.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2016 10:28 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 10:28:50 -0500

Hardest part was finding a job where you felt like you were actually accomplishing something. You go from leading Soldiers and being a mentor to being the lowest rung on the totem pole in a new company.

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made Feb 12 at 2016 11:40 AM

SSG Keith Cashion — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 11:40:45 -0500

SSG John McCammon, I think with all of this advice you have received, you have everything to succeed. But like a lot have said, you have to know who you are minus the uniform, rank and the undivided attention you get when talking to other Soldiers. Hard lesson to learn, when dealing with your civilian teammates, is they are squishy, soft shelled, and will run to HR about hurt feelings faster than you can run the 100 yard dash. A good interview tool is after they finish asking you questions and explaining the position, ask them "If hired what is it that they expect from you?" Throws some people off because they are basically using a script to interview with, and if the person that is interviewing you is the person you will be working for, it will let them know you understand what they want, and helps you make that decision to accept or decline the position if it really isn't what you are looking for.

Good Luck.

Response by 1SG David Niles made Feb 12 at 2016 11:49 AM

1SG David Niles — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 11:49:53 -0500

Believing in yourself and adjusting to starting over. A quote that I used helped me to keep focus "Nobody cares what you did yesterday, they want to know what you did today, and will do tomorrow" think of it as a PCS and embrace the challenge.

Response by MSgt John Taylor made Feb 12 at 2016 12:24 PM

MSgt John Taylor — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 12:24:56 -0500

I assume that you're retiring? As long as you made financial preparations, the rest is pretty easy. I've known guys that had to find work before their terminal was up or they had to move their family in with their parents.

For me, having TRICARE took a huge weight off my shoulders. Not having a huge healthcare cost bite into my retirement allowed me to be more flexible. If I had no other income, I would still have a roof over my head, utilities, food and gas in the cars. I might not have a phone, cable or internet, but my family would be cared for.

Don't assume that civilians are as "mission oriented" as you. I find that most in the workplace are more selfish, which is not to say they're bad co-workers, they're just not what you're used to. If your boss hired you because you're a vet, then don't be afraid to act like one. be a better employee than those who are not.

If you live near a base, then cut the umbilical! Don't "hang out" there if you don't have to. That life has passed, and you need to make an effort to be part of your new community. Socialize with other vets, but leave the Army behind. A month after I retired from the AF, everything I knew had changed, my AF didn't exist anymore. Don't be the guy that starts every sentence with "well in my day."

lastly, enjoy your retirement with your family. But remember, you're the one making the big change, not them. I've seen a lot of divorces because the retiree couldn't adapt and took it out on the family. They didn't wear a uniform, and have a bunch of youngsters call them sir everyday! Change yourself to fit into their life.

Congratulations and enjoy yourself!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 12 at 2016 1:11 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 13:11:51 -0500

To have a good plan is better than a bad plan which is better than no plan.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Feb 12 at 2016 4:25 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 16:25:04 -0500

learning that all the security clearances, hard core hooah stuff means little to the hiring person on the other side of the desk.

Response by SSG John Caples made Feb 12 at 2016 5:13 PM

SSG John Caples — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 17:13:03 -0500

I was that way when I was getting ready to get out in 08, scared , alone , not knowing who you can trust amongst civilians. The only thing that got to me was the time I had on my hands, I was medically retired from the Army, and made the mistake to move back to my home town , police automatically think something you don't work have a nice home and 3 pov's in the yard. I even got stopped once by a policeman and asked
' What are you doing for yourself now? I replied the same thing your doing ""LIVING "" , after that, I asked" is there anything else I can help you with, or is that the only reason you stopped me, to get in my business. F$#%^& CIVILIANS

Response by SSgt Christopher Clinton made Feb 12 at 2016 9:29 PM

SSgt Christopher Clinton — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 21:29:23 -0500

Lazy people, backstabbers and those lacking integrity. Finding your own structure. Finding good friends and people you can trust. Also finding a job.

You have to figure out what you enjoy doing, what you want out of your career and find a job that fits that. It is hard to find a job with the same satisfaction of serving Active Duty. Go to all the SBA seminars and free information offered to transitioning service members. Pay attention in TAPS and ask questions. Explore your interests and match your skills. Determine which skills you want to use for your next career. Keep disciplined! It is up to you to provide your own rules and structure--they will help you keep from getting overwhelmed. Follow a plan and goals you set for yourself--reevaluate and plan as you explore and gain a better idea of the path you wish to take.

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Response by SPC Makissa Lewis made Feb 12 at 2016 9:47 PM

SPC Makissa Lewis — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 21:47:53 -0500

Transitioning to civilian has many challenges. Rather than give you negative responses I will give you one positive one. There is no 0500 formation to go to in the cold with only a PT uniform to warm you up on the civilian side.

Good luck and if you need assistance feel free to hit me up.

Response by SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS made Feb 12 at 2016 9:55 PM

SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 21:55:55 -0500

SSG John McCammon, I retired in two years ago. It is important to try to pinpoint what makes you scared. I tried to do this and no one could really help me figure it out. On one hand you need to be psychic while on the other hand a jack of all trades.

I relied and still do on my faith in Jesus Christ. Turns out same way He protected me in combat He would came through for me during my transition.

I have a job that I can grow in and out of if needed. My physical disabilities forced me to abondon my dream of becoming a police officer. So I had to reinvent myself, and in my case the VA made it easy for me to get my foot in civil service. I am still trying to figure out what I am doing or where I am going.

I would suggest the job shadowing concept. Find a job you think you like and get the opportunity to spend some time with an organization. The best example is police ride-along programs.

My biggest obstacle was getting off the crazy train the unit mission requires you do. This was especially difficult for me to balance and caused enormous stress added to the whole process of out processing.

Hope this helps brother.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2016 1:57 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 01:57:48 -0500

The hardest part is dealing with the civilian minsdet of mediocrity. They thrive on it. Most folks in the military are type A's. Not so in the civilian world and those that are, are not good at being team players.
It is a hard transition but doable as long as you manage your expectations.

Response by SSG Eric Whittekiend made Feb 13 at 2016 1:47 PM

SSG Eric Whittekiend — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 13:47:47 -0500

For me it is dealing with incompetent workers and supervisors

Response by SSG Lenzie Bailey made Feb 13 at 2016 4:29 PM

SSG Lenzie Bailey — Sat, 13 Feb 2016 16:29:07 -0500

One thing that was hard on me and my family was "Dad was home all the time now!" And having say goodbye to my Joes!

Response by CSM Felipe Mendez made Feb 14 at 2016 7:21 PM

CSM Felipe Mendez — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 19:21:43 -0500

The hardest part for me was given up my “Active duty” ID Card. I felt like I was thrown out of the door and now you are on your own. Dealing with individual in the work force that do not met the work ethic, discipline and standard that we as service members were held to. You will find yourself in situation in which your hard work ethics get you in bad with others co-workers. I once was told to slow down because I was making them look bad. Civilian workforce has a “I like you” you are safe. If I don’t, you are a goner. To be successful, try the “When in Rome, do like the Romans”, it works. My best suggestion to you is to give eight hours of honest/hard work, do your best and when in doubt, ask questions.

Response by SSG Ronald Colwell made Feb 18 at 2016 9:03 PM

SSG Ronald Colwell — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 21:03:52 -0500

Was hard at first, I would get up really early for about 6 months or so, due to the standard regimented routine. Shave every day, hair cut about every other week, til I realized I didn't have to do any of that any more.

Response by SGT Bruce Miller made Feb 19 at 2016 3:45 PM

SGT Bruce Miller — Fri, 19 Feb 2016 15:45:33 -0500

Lazy no team players

Response by CPO John Ortiz made Feb 24 at 2016 11:46 PM

CPO John Ortiz — Wed, 24 Feb 2016 23:46:23 -0500

The unknown, the military give us such structure it's challenging to know there are no boundaries when your a civilian. The military needs to give a course on how civilians view vets.