Transitioning from military service to a civilian lifestyle after any amount of time can be extremely challenging. Even more so for those who are retiring after 20-plus years, because of how long they have had a system of jobs and employment safety nets always there for them. However, there are several networking strategies that veterans can use to ease that transition and find meaningful and passionate opportunities in the civilian sector.
8 ways to use networking to find that next mission
Many of these will look familiar or relatable to members exiting the service. I guarantee that you have done something similar while attending a military school, a meeting, joining a new unit, or even just participating in some everyday event that supports your hobbies outside of the military.
1. Use Military Networks.
Reach out to fellow veterans, both current and former, as well as military organizations and support groups. These networks can provide valuable advice, job leads, and emotional support during the transition. Reach out to those who have separated before, with and after you. Call up your mentors, reach out to those who have had successful separations, and even message those that you think might be out of reach. You never know what could happen, and if you frame the questions right, they can’t say no!
2. Attend Veteran-Specific Events.
Look for job fairs, workshops, and networking events specifically tailored to veterans. These events often feature employers who are actively seeking to hire veterans and understand the unique skills and experiences they bring to the table. You will also meet plenty of veteran business owners who have been where you are. They could potentially bring you under their wing as a mentee, or even be the bridge that helps you find the right opportunity. Just because they are a business owner in a different field, industry or sector, doesn’t mean you should count them out.
3. Translate Military Experience.
Learn how to effectively translate your military experience, skills, and accomplishments into language that civilian employers can understand and appreciate. Highlight your leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, as well as any specialized training or certifications you’ve acquired during your service. Find tools, classes, websites, etc., that can help you if you are struggling in this area. The methods are out there. You are not reinventing the wheel so don’t feel overwhelmed like you are the first and only one who had to do this very surmountable task.
4. Seek Mentorship.
Finding someone that you can relate to or who shares common interests, goals, and/or skills is invaluable. Find mentors who have successfully transitioned from military to civilian careers and can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate the job market and adjust to civilian life. Mentorship can be invaluable in helping you set goals, make informed decisions, and stay motivated during the transition process.
5. Build a Strong Online Presence.
Create or update your professional profiles on sites like ClearanceJobs.Com and other professional networking sites, making sure to highlight your military background, skills, and achievements. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to expand your network and visibility within your target industry or field. Again, be sure to network on these sites as well. Become recognizable, post often, interact, be what you say you are, and make yourself part of the narrative. There are so many opportunities to network just by commenting or creating posts that are relevant to your network or industry.
6. Conduct Informational Interviews.
Conduct informational interviews with professionals in your desired industry or field to learn more about their career paths, job roles, and organizations. These conversations can help you gain valuable insights, expand your network, and uncover hidden job opportunities.
7. Volunteer and Join Professional Associations.
Volunteer work and participation in professional associations can help you build new skills, expand your network, and demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field. Look for opportunities to get involved in projects or initiatives that align with your interests and career goals.
8. Be Proactive and Persistent.
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—be proactive in reaching out to potential employers, networking contacts, and mentors. Follow up on job leads and networking connections, and don’t be discouraged by rejection. Persistence and resilience are key traits that can help you succeed in your transition to civilian life.
Network Your Way to Your Next Job
Networking strategies can successfully transition to civilian life. You have to change what you were taught in the military and engage in every opportunity to make yourself a pivotal role in the movie that is your job search. Become recognizable, add to the narrative, become or show your subject matter expertise, and the jobs and recruiters will see you. Connecting and networking are what will find you the job.
