How to Transition Out of the Military

Getting out of the military can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Finding new housing and landing the job you want can be difficult, but with adequate research and preparation, you will make a smooth, successful transition and you'll settle comfortably into your new life.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Do your homework. Read books on interviewing and on the different job industries that you're interested in. Some books that may help you to prepare for this big transition are: "The Interviewing Handbook for Military Leaders," "Brag: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn without Blowing It" and "Now, Discover Your Strengths."
2. Contact a military headhunter six months before you get out to get a good reading on the current job market and to find out how attractive you'll be to different industries based on your background and skills. Orion International and Lucas Group are recruiters who work with both enlisted service members and officers.
3. Decide what you want to do. Examine your skills, background and interests, network with people who are working in the industries you're interested in and talk to other former service members who've made the transition to help you make the decision on what career to pursue.
4. Attend job fairs and career conferences one to two months before you get out. Do as many job interviews as possible at the conferences and always send thank you emails to your interviewers.
5. Keep pushing until you get the job that you want. Once you've landed it, be sure to help other service members who are also going through this transition.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for multiple interviews with each company. The interview process can sometimes be long and complicated, but it's worth it for the right job.
• Remember that headhunters are ultimately there to get paid. They're helpful, but they're not always looking out for your best interest. It is your job to make sure that you start your transition off on the right career path.
• Don't settle for your first job offer if it's not what you want. Make sure to have many interviews lined up so that you don't feel obligated to take a job that you're not interested in.

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