4 Tips to Make Easing Back Into Office Life Easy

SGT (Join to see) I don't think there's a one-size-fits-all solution for grasping culture changes. However, something that could definitely help, especially for transitioning service members, is to find a mentor who can help navigate those tricky work situations and relationships.

Also, when starting a new job, take the first few weeks to observe what your coworkers are doing to help you understand what is expected of you. Sometimes, there are unwritten, and unspoken, expectations that can only be learned by seeing what is happening around you. Some things I've learned from over the years: if everyone eats lunch together in the break room, eat with them. If office culture is to eat lunch at your desk without taking a break, eat lunch at your desk. If everyone stays until 6 or 7 at night, even though office hours are from 9-5, you should also stay late.

SGT Jacqueem Spratley, one of the best ways to learn about the culture is to find a mentor within the organization you want to join. One method is to find out if a company you are interested in hosts networking events. If so, sign up and attend (most are free) and find several mentors. A lot of the larger companies that espouse hiring veterans are beginning to realize that they need to help integrate the veterans, and are teaming up new employees with successful employees who are also veterans. The mentor in that relationship is there to guide you in cultural norms, such as dress, language, company business and interpersonal practices, etc.

Based on my experiences, the earlier you begin networking and connecting, the better. Do not leave it until a year out or six months out. Start making the connections you need, and have them guide you in how to interview and approach potential employers at hiring events. Good luck!