Military to Civilian Career Transitions: It'll Take More Time Than You Think

Military to Civilian Career Transitions: It'll Take More Time Than You Think

A number of months ago, I had an encounter with a field grade officer, who was separating in less than a year. This educated, highly trained, and articulate leader, with more than two decades of military service had absolutely no clue about where he was going next.

You don't know what you don't know and I feared trouble ahead for him.

Let's Avoid the Pain

Understanding that military service is demanding, your first obligations are to your mission and unit. Along with other high-priority demands related to PCSs, on-going training, deployments, and family responsibilities, there isn't a lot of time for post-military career planning. Somehow, you've got to make the time.

My suggestion is to begin your earnest preparations at between two-five years prior to separation.

Why So Much Time?

The necessary time will vary depending on the amount of exploration you need to figure out which career is right for you, as well as by how much gearing up is necessary to prepare you for entry into your new career.

The biggest mistake I see transitioning members make is their failing to take the most foundational step, which is serious self-reflection and soul searching.

Consider:

• Who you are
• What you enjoy doing
• Where you and your family want to live
• Which work environments are most suitable
• How much income you need to support your preferred lifestyle

The Importance of Networking

Networking is a key element because it's the only way to know what it's like to be in a career and work at a given organization without having been there.

Plan on doing many informational interviews, which could mean 50, 200, or in one case, 2000! The more touch points, the more thorough your exploration and informed your decision will be.

Let's Not Waste Time

The last thing you want to do is spend time preparing for the wrong career. Without the reflection concerning what you and your family really need and want, you could waste a lot of time preparing for a career that is not satisfying or worse yet, unstable.

Summary

Choosing your post-military career is an investment that takes time, self-reflection, exploration, and career preparation. Transition is difficult. Let's avoid the pain by starting early and doing your homework. It'll take more time than you think!