1

Get as much education as possible prior to transitioning.

2

civillian employment is far different from millitary
the loyalty and discipline is not there, if you are lucky to work with other millitary personel that makes it easier to transition
I know this because I have helped others into field they knew nothing of
and have turned out to be some of the best in our field.

3

1. Lose the jargon; 2. Look at what the company needs and adjust your thinking - you probably don't have everything they want but you bring more than just the skills they are looking for; 3. Don't underestimate a good cover letter - this is a great way to cover what you have and how you can overcome any perceived shortcomings

4

Learn the corporate language early. Learn how to translate your experience in the military, and you have a whole bunch, thru your resume and oration to civilian speak, as soon as possible. Seek out an organization like RP6.ORG to assist you with your transition quest for education, housing, and employment, among other things to get your facts organized and find your direction. Another critical motion is to network as soon as possible, because that will land you the critical interview.

5

Ensuring you get your medical records evaluated before you separate.

6

Network! Hone your message, get a clear simple business card, and get out there every event you can find. Greated Philadelphia Veterans Network was a lifeline for me, and a source for info on all kinds of events in our area. I also learnsd a lot from people in my professional associations like AUSA.

7

It is imperative to start shaping your transition early, at least 12 months out. Network, Network, Network!

8

Few in the civilian sector care about what you did in the military (with a handful of exceptions).

9

Start VA Disability packet ASAP. Take advantage of all classes teaching resume writing and job interviewing. Be open to where the jobs are located; there are plenty of jobs for veterans, but not necessarily where one wants to ideally go.

10

Know your finances; plan in advance to pay off bills two to three years out from decision to leave military; attend ACAP/TAP 18-24 months out; insure you have VA paperwork done six months from leaving military; do not get a false sense of security for retirement check; plan plan and plan for 4-6 months of savings for housing cost; make yourself financially smart; check credit score and clear up credit history; insure you know exactly what is happening with your bills, don't assume your spouse or significant other is money smart; if you are going to purchase a home before leaving the service do it one to two years out; and most important, do not procrastinate on any of the above.

11

I have encountered some really great people in non profit groups and some VA postions, but unfortunately a lot of lip service and wind and smoke not much success; hang in there looking for work , especially families single Daddys my prayers are with you

12

Start working on your resume before you start the TAP classes. Start looking at how to translate your military terminology into civilian terminology.

13

The true meaning of networking and understanding the diverse jobs that are out there. Applying to the right positions and tailoring your resume to the position.

14

Have an idea of what you want to do after you get out of the military. Attend the Transition programs early. Get those websites that help you identify what career areas you may succeed in.

15

Attend TAP 18 months out-and again 6-12 months out from out date

16

Must figure out WHAT you want to do and be able to explain what you want to do and why you are best suited for that type job so you can share with your network

17

Many employers consider you for the reasons you are probably getting out of the military. They like your willingness to relocate for a job, work long hours, and be willing to travel away from home.

18

Find a knowledgeable transition team

19

1) Begin the process as early as possible -- it may take several months before being hired. 2) While some instructors are better than others, do not expect to get much out of SFL/TAP beyond some information. 3) Job hunting will likely be one of the hardest things you will do and the process is foreign to military personnel. You will be discouraged. You must maintain a positive attitude as you job hunt.

20

Plan as far ahead as possible.

21

Complete formal education before separation or immediately following separation using GI Bill benefits.

22

Transitioning from your military life to a civilian life is a challenge and it is difficult to plan for. When you think about it everything changes when you depart from the military. Understand that you will not walk into an organization and be given the same amount of responsibility that you may have been use to. Also plan to met supervisors who have had little to no leadership training.

23

Prepare early and get the civilian certifications for whatever you do.

24

Start your medical evaluations as soon as you find out you are retiring. If you are going back to the work force after retirement, build a resume that is civilian friendly, and reach out to all of your civilian friends for leads on job openings

25

Be prepared for a culture change. Corporate America is about the bottom line. Individuals are looking out for what is in their best individual interests and many time lack common goals. Rely on your past skills in the military, but realize they don't transfer into civilian vocabulary. You have to spell it out clearly at times so that potential employers can understand exactly what it is you are offering them.

26

Education!

27

Start attending ACAP sooner and be networking throughout your career with everyone you come in contact. Get on LinkedIn and Rally Point.

28

Take full advantage of free education provided before you begin to transition

29

The most important aspect of job search is developing, nurturing, and leveraging both personal and professional networks. You must make the effort to meet people, and get to know them.

30

Find a job before you leave the military

31

Know how to articulate your skills learned in the military and put them into civilian terms. Know what civilian jobs are most like your skill set DO NOT mistake finding a job like yours in the military...instead rely on your SKILL SET!

32

Use those skills learned on active duty to secure a place in today's civilian workforce. Use the dependability and all the other attributes learned in the military. They may not need infantry but they can use the skills that made you an effective infantry soldier.

33

1) Read all papers you sign to ensure everything is correct when out processing. Dates/Awards Deployments/Rank. 2) Ask questions if you do not understand what they are saying to you. 3) Prepare a good resume, bullet points on exp.

34

Start looking at what you would like to do, jobs you think you can do, and try to fit your skills to the position early, months in advance, especially if you were in a leadership position in the military and you are trying to get into a civilian leadership position.
Be prepared to get a lot of rejection notices, which is why it is best to start while you are still in, preferably at least 90 days before you are out.
Be up front with the recruiters you are working with and share your timeline with them so they can begin working with you and can manage the expectations of you and their company.

35

Use the skills you learned in the military to make a better workplace, not to measure those around you in the workplace. Civilians don't do things the way fellow veterans would. That doesn't make it wrong or even more inefficient, it just makes it different. Apply your skills to learn the best way in your work and them build from there to make it better.

36

take advantage of your assets-mulititask, unflappable; use your drive to learn what you don't know; ask solid questions; prep yourself

37

1) Listen to your briefers, take name + rank. 2) Ask questions, don't let them avoid answering, have them find out the info while you are still at briefing. 3) Ask questions in front of others so you have back up if need be.

38

Explore career fields that have an accepted Body of Knowledge, a professional credential indicating a command of that BOK, and are in demand. Then obtain the credential and discuss your military experience in the language of the BOK. The credential then corroborates your experience which sounds familiar to the hiring official because it's in the language of the career/discipline/profession. Examples of fields are Human Resources, Project Management, Accounting, etc.

39

Research your transition location beforehand, and don't assume you can just walk into a job.

40

Network, Network, Network. Most companies require you to have in addition to a degree, technical experience. So knowing the right people to get you that interview is important. We spend many hours submitting resumes to find employers will not look at you if you do not have the technical experience.

41

to start planning ahead and start looking for jobs a year out from seperation or retirement.

42

Use the services offered at the Transition Center

43

Start early, don't wait until you begin clearing to begin your job/education search, a year out is not too soon. Don't get frustrated, keep motivated.

44

Be sure you're mentally ready to transition, and you've done the TAP programs. Have enough money to hold you for at least a year.

45

Understand that you are entering a new world and things work differently. Most civilian employers will find your military experience valuable but it is unlikely that they will understand it. Do not act arrogant about your military service, this will turn your civilian counterparts off to you completely; be humble. Rely on those senior civilians at your new work place they same way you would have relied on senior NCO's when showing up to a new unit. If you can find one, get a civilian mentor with prior military experience to give you advice on your transition and how to treat the very new types of situations you will face. Do not be afraid to apply lessons learned in the military to your new civilian job, government work generally gets a bad wrap for being inefficient but you would be amazed at the impact you can have in the work place by showing people a new way to do something that is "the way we used to do it in the military".

46

"Never turn down a job until offered"

47

Make sure you have a plan and backup options WELL BEFORE (1-1.5 years) before you actually retire

48

Be open minded and willing to adapt and change. Don't be so set in your ways that you miss out on opportunities

49

Any job is possible, regardless of your previous MOS. As long as you were a good leader in the Service, you can go far in the civilian sector.

50

Choose several career options and prepare for them academically. Network the unseen and the unadvertised. Research your prospective employer well.

51

My advice would be to save all of your NCOER's or OER's--they will pay dividends in helping you write your resume. I'd advise anyone to hook up with one of the military headhunters to get coaching into narrating the transition.

52

Remember that you are the oddball - you need to learn how to blend into the industrial and managerial marketplace.

53

Network, Network, Network in the location you will be retiring. In this economy, have at least 2500 LinkedIn connections before retirement. Also, have sit-down coffee with all your 50 closest connections and work all the leads that they give you and keep them posted every month.

54

To simply not expect the civilian world to value military service in the ways that veterans would expect. Most civilian hiring managers have no concept of how soldiers are trained in the military, how rigorous that training is, or the level of individual responsibility that each soldier has during her/his career. Things as simple as being responsible for a vehicle in the motorpool sounds so unimportant to a civilian, but veterans understand the work with something like that. It's all about translation of skills and responsibilities to civilian nomenclature.

55

Be ready for a struggle. Military experience doesn't necessarily transition to the workforce. People may appreciated your service but it doesn't mean it will help you get the position.

56

Many veterans need to learn to write their resumes eliminating military terminology and acronyms as it only confuses employers. Do not use military leadership titles i.e. Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Squad Leader, Company Commander, etc as the majority of civilians have no idea what those leadership positions are. Instead use "supervisor" or "manager." Too many veterans expect to be able to acquire a job in the private sector equal to the leadership position they had in the military as well as receive a salary equal to or greater than their military pay. Lower your expectations, get your foot in the door, and then prove yourself.

57

Not everyone understands what or why you seems so different

58

Use your discipline, experience and skill to propel you into your next career. Be honest with yourself that it is demonstrated experience needed for the job unless it is a trainee position. If it is a trainee position, then apply yourself with vigor--working all hours, keeping the civilian rules and realizing that those with whom you work with do not necessarily share your values or traditions.

59

The civilian sector is completely different from the military. Honesty and hard work are not always rewarded.

60

Before you get out or seperate, make sure your DD Form 214 is current and has all your information on it. Get your final physical and make sure you get your VA Disability review. Choose the right GI Bill.

61

People are often jealous of those who have served and don't wish you well.

62

Start networking one year out, at six months, contact a good POC at the job you finally chose and touch base monthly to indicate your continued interest. Have at least six months of your basic pay in savings

63

1. Ensure that soldiers understand their educational benefits to include Voc Rehab. 2. Start researching a career path while still serving - jumping into any degree program without a plan sets up failure with a short shelf life of benefits 3. Get civilian resume guidance before separating to translate the military terminology and jobs into what will be understood in the workforce 4. Military translators should not be relied on 100% - it is not always apples to apples - look at the skill sets comprehensively - 11B offer so much to any workplace - they are not destined only to be truck drivers or entry level positions

64

You should regard your military service almost as a college degree. Today a college degree really says that a person has commitment and follow through. The same is said for honorable military service. Odds are you have to deal with many people from different cultural and geographical background than yourself.
Many people think enlisted personnel are given a task to do and governerd down to the details. Explain that this isn't the case. That while missions or task come from the command, it is up to the enlisted leaders to figure out how to do those task properly.

65

Research how the skills you acquired and used during your active duty can transfer over to civilian positions and emphasize those skills to employers and how you succeeded with those skills.

66

Start early to plan transition. I would recommend discussion with pervious members of the military that have transition recently (5 years or less). If there are service connected disabilities considerations seek assistance to file the paperwork. Do not be afraid to fire a Veteran Assistance Office if you do not feel that are acting in your best interest. There are many out there. Some are more competent than others. Be sure to check out State and local Veteran assistance offices not just the Federal offices. You are your best advocate, do not turn your case over to some veteran office and not continue to make inquiries and status of your case

67

Stay in. Dont get out, life is easier in the military no matter how green the grass looks

68

Referrals and resources are your best friend. When I wasn't actively looking for a job I was volunteering with different organizations. Building my network and resource bank increased the number of jobs I saw and the number of people I could call upon for suggestions, referrals and references.

69

Start early and highlight skills that are good for civilian employers.

70

Get with a vocational work advisor and really learn what you want to be when you get out. Dream big and go for that job. Don't settle for a job that just pays the bills.

71

long term future plans of employment in relations to health conditions deteriorating in old age.

72

Identify your skills. Evaluate your military service. What did you do daily? Make a list. Once your list is complete, pair skills you used with each task. Pay special attention to your transferable skills -- those you can easily use in different organizations.

73

Never give up

74

Understand that, as in any career change, you may need to take a step or two "back." That doesn't mean employers don't value your experience, but you don't know their industry, (usually), and you have to learn it before expecting to be in higher level positions. Using your military experience, values and work ethic, however, you are in a prime position to move up the ladder much more quickly than other newcomers.

75

Be mindful of how you are perceived. For better or worse, your future employers have pronounced stereotypes about your behavior and abilities. This bias could cause you to be placed into a bad cultural fit for your next job.

76

1. Never forget your oath, remember others have traveled the same road, You will have to adapt to civilian life but never forget you are a soldier. Be as you were in uniform, (strong) a lot of us have made it so can you. God Bless and thanks for your service. Have family members help you rehearse and stand tall in the interview. Let them know they are taking on the best.

77

Take advantage of the programs/classes/workshops/briefings offered by your respective Service Branch Transition Assistance Program (TAP). Pay attention and take copious notes. Don't just go through the motions and "check the box" just to say that you completed mandatory classes/briefings/workshops. When you sign up to take an optional workshop, do so because you really want to take advantage of what you can learn, not just to get out of doing work w/ your unit.

78

start transitioning process at least 24 months out.

79

Get connected to the civilian world ASAP via your military connections .LinkedIn is a good starting point but face-to-face is more effective.

80

Start early and build your network over the previous 24 months. Ensure you get help with your resume and translate it in to civilian terms

81

1) Complete your higher education, that's a must. At 50 now looking to go back to school, not a thing I was planning on but I find it both necessary, and the best thing I can do, even at 50. 2) Find a mentor, get involved with fellow veterans in your area. Stay focused, stay involved and if you need help, don't be afraid to ask. 3) Remember, it's a crazy world out there, learn civilian English, translate your skill so civilians can understand it, Just like researching the area you want to get into is important, so is learning the language. 4) Job Fairs is a good resource, job workshops as well, networking extremely important, become a "KNOWN" candidate, I got that from my mentor, if nobody knows who you are, your chances are smaller. This does not mean 500+ FB friends.

82

Share the values and characteristics earned and learned in the service in a way a recruiter or HR person might better understand. Focus on decision making, self-starter, disciplined, team focused, etc. not what you did on a day to day basis.

83

Take time to find out what you want to do so you can tell others. Many want to help but I found the hardest thing to do was to determine what was out there (besides the job descriptions) and where I would enjoy the people and job. After 35 years of service and retiring as a COL, I didn't know what I wanted to do and the networking was more difficult than I expected. Also what you are willing to do as far as commute and travel. But you have to get out and figure it out so you can explain a major career shift. Most civilians don't understand how your experience can apply to a civilian business.

84

Create a resume that does not use military jargon, the best complement I got was from a retired Navy officer who read my resume and had to ask what branch of the army I was in because he could not be sure.

85

Be ready to answer interview questions about your service. Make certain to "translate" the skills you learned in the military into something tangible for the interviewer to imagine. This will help the interviewer figure out, during the Q&A session, where you might fit in the company. Also, this will give him/her a better assessment of your skill set(s).

86

Get real work experience in whatever field you are trying to get into.

87

1. Ensure your resume contains no military jargon or acronyms. Whatever your leadership position in the military, translate it to a comparable civilian position, i.e. Platoon Sergeant = Supervisor or Manager. 2. Do not expect to obtain a civilian job at the same level of leadership you had in the Army.

88

Translating your skills into a more civilianized format. Understanding that some employers are going to place judgment simply because of a Veteran status. You may need to downplay your skills in order to look like a fit for a position.

89

Get a career coach. You are in no mind to process TAP when it is offered to you.

90

your last oer does not matter. It's all about the people you meet and the real world experience you can bring to the table. Internships are key

91

You are going to have to take a job that may seem to be lower level than expected

92

Networking is the most important thing you can concentrate on. The bigger you network the more options and info you will have.

93

That they consider all their options and know what their future career plans are.

94

Do not think for a second that the military is setting you up for success after you depart. Learn what civilian success looks like first before you enter the year window if you can help it and prepare yourself as a civilan prepares themselves for a career transition. My Big Tip -- There are "tracks" (employment, entrepreneur and school), Dont pick one, pick all three, learn about each one extensively and make multiple contingency plans.

95

Make as many connections you can with veterans outreach groups (such as American Legion, VFW leaders) and any other types of independent outreach groups in your area. Do your homework! Know which ones are legit and have good reputations. Don't just take their website's word for it. Go out and talk to the people who work for the organization. Find out what kinds of things they can provide for you and take advantage of them.

96

Network, network, and network somemore. A friend of your long lost third cousin has the job you want, so network.

97

Have a job set up. Understand nothing will feel the same as when you were in. Or have school ready.

98

Do not judge your coworkers on their lack of service or lack of understanding of war and world events.

99

Reach out to groups that can help you make this change.

100

Get as much education as you can before seperating which will open more job opportunities. Also make sure you have an excellent resume, the military has people who can help put one together.

101

Have a strong resume that indicates all your military training and translate that training to your resume.

102

Keep your gung-ho attitude, but be prepared to be humble when only offered entry level jobs, despite your numerous awards for military achievements.

103

Network

104

Prepare for your transition early! Get the equivalent civilian certifications as soon as you can instead of waiting until you are out. Go to college. If possible go to a community or local college, not an online program, this way if you don't like your program your credits will transfer to another school. And save money. It will most likely take you 2 to 3 times longer and twice as much per month as you think.

105

Networking, develop civilian networks as soon as possible. Continue to reach out to former military in your area.

106

Establish realistic expectations. While citizens frequently say "thank you for your service," hiring managers and ATS programs struggle to screen service members through to an interview. TAP does a less than adequate job preparing service members with the necessary tools to effectively take ownership of there transition. Service members need to realize that transitioning is a long and, at times, frustrating process. It is important to keep an open mind to different possibilities and stay positive.

107

Keep all options for new jobs open. Don't try to find that "perfect" fit that matches what you did in the military. Also remember you may have to start at the bottom again, but vets tend to rise faster than others

108

Lean on family for help if possible. Otherwise utilize other Vets who have did this before you

109

Make sure you have copies of all your records (medical, personnel, etc) of your own so that if there's any discrepancy later on you have something to use in an attempt to fix it

110

Start with your passions, not just with a salary or your core skill set.

111

Start your transition at the two-year mark. Be disciplined and honest with yourself. Unless you are getting a Gov't job, you will have to prove your worth to a civilian employer.

112

Have a plan before leaving the military. If you are transitioning to university then get your application in to schools before exiting the military, if you are transitioning into a civilian job then update your resume and send it out approximately two months prior to your transition date. Also, save your vacation the last year so you can take your last month as paid leave and use it to go on job interviews, find housing, etc...

113

Stay active be flexible. 👍

114

Learn there is an adjustment period. There are also resources to help adjust during this time.

115

Start early, devise a plan and work it, scrub all military-speak from your vocabulary, read everything available about resume writing and interviews, be patient, don't be discouraged, job-hunting is hard on everyone, not just the military

116

Get your foot in the door on a first job. Expect it will just be to start, and that you will start looking again in a few months.

117

You bring more to the table with your military skills than you probably realize, and definitely more than the vast majority of employers who are not veterans themselves realize.

118

First, ensure that you utilize the services provided by the military in terms of mental health and physical health. This is especially true if you are planning on transitioning a short time after your deployment. Your transition may be an exciting time, it may be against your wishes, but it's turbulent either way and ensuring that you have documented everything and have a plan is vital. Second, "do what you love" is a tough thing to find when what you love is serving. As an infantryman, or any other service-specific MOS, this can be especially difficult to figure out for yourself. My advice? Try something completely new and be prepared if it's not for you. I think that small companies are best for the transition because, in my experience, they have less bureaucracy involved. This allows you to get your hands in some of the operations, planning, etc that you will not be able to do at a (company name removed) or any other mega-company. Third, you're life up until this point has revolved around service. The civilian world, as a general rule, does not revolve around work. Sometimes I would come home bored, or be bored at work, and the best advice I got from a coworker was that now was the time to develop hobbies for myself. Work should be a place you enjoy, but the rest of your time should absolutely be something you enjoy. Take advantage of the change of pace. The civilian work force is fundamentally different than the Service. This will take some getting used to. You great part? You can retain the parts of you that were developed in the military and get rid of the parts you don't like. This will take 6 months at least. Finally, if you can find an employer who is a veteran you will have an easier time translating your experience to that employer. I work as a corporate recruiter and often come across resumes which I can interpret quite easily but which I know would be completely foreign to a civilian employer. This is not only the use of acronyms but the implied responsibilities of being a team leader, or a section leader, or a 1SG. Sometimes it takes getting in the door and in front of the interviewer to articulate your experiences- and for that you should be prepared to speak upon what makes you a great employee.

119

Have a plan! Transition takes time be prepared for that. Don't leave the military without knowing what your going to do when you seperate. Whether it's going back to school or going in to the workforce. Look for companies that offer training programs for their employees. These companies care about their employees and tend to be closer to the structure service members are used to.

120

Jobs will not just come to, you will need to work hard to find a job. Learn how your skills will translate to a civilian job.

121

Do not sweat the small stuff. Emotional Intelligence is important.

122

Have a plan and have someone help you translate your military skills into terms that civilians can understand.

123

Don't assume your job search will be easy based solely on your service.

124

Go back to school and begin a new career. During your education do not forget to participate in an Internship program to gain the necessary experience to succeed. Also looking into programs available and organization that will help you network and understand all the unwritten rules in your new environment. Do not discount Volunteering in programs to assist your fellow veteran. You can include Volunteered time on your resume.

125

Start Early. Have a solid plan on what you want to do and start moving forward at least a year in advance.

126

1) Network, network, network. You never know where or when the next opportunity will come from. Maintain your professional bearing and retain that "get it done" mentality, but drop the military jargon, civilians don't speak MOS, ETS, REFRAD, etc. 2) Maintain your grooming standards, civilian employers like employees that look and act like professionals. Don't be sloppy. 3) Be flexible but don't sacrifice your family if you can help it. A good paying job on the 11-7 shift might seem attractive but not if your wife and kids need you around more than the paycheck. 4) If you are going into a manufacturing setting learn to speak LEAN, SIX SIGMA, Continuous Improvement, Quality, Error proofing....its all the rage in companies trying to be the best. If you don't know what they are Google them and learn. 5) Have someone other than your spouse,(unless they are an English major) proof your resume. A poorly done resume will most likely find its way into the trash. USE SPELL CHECK. Know the difference between there and their, Our and are, etc. Dress for success. 6) Use the Coach Coughlin rule, if you are on time you are late, if you are early you are on time. Words to live by.

127

You are going to need to accept a few facts: 1. Civilians have never faced real-world life-or-death situations. This gives them a perverse sense of priorities. It also makes them view you negatively when you fail to panic as much as everyone else about trivial matters. You can easily develop a reputation for being apathetic, uncommitted, etc. 2. Civilians may "thank you for your service," however, their gratitude tends to run shallow. Often, the fact that you have seen and done things they never will makes them extremely uncomfortable in your presence. 3. Civilians do not grasp the concept of "embracing the suck-factor." No matter how hard you work pulling their bacon out of the fire, no matter how brilliant and driven you are, your office mates will often run you down behind your back if you ever make light of any "crisis du jour."

128

Start early and seek professional assistance in translating your military training and experience into measurable things that the civilian community will understand.

129

Learn to accept rejection. Many of the folks who interview you, may or may not view the military favorably. Learn to de-mil your vocabulary. Many who interview you have pre-conceived notions about veterans; you have to remake yourself, quit looking, speaking and acting like a veteran. Learn how to translate the skills you learned in the military into civilian terms. Instead of squad leader, you supervised____ of individuals.

130

Go to school. It is hard to translate military service into the civilian world. Start applying for jobs prior to complete separation.

131

The importance of networking and the need to reinvent yourself.

132

Must prepare by learning the civilian lingo, i.e learn how to properly translate military experience into civilian experience. You must network to avoid applying in website. Most company take a long time to contact you back and in some instances the companies don't even let you know that you are no longer consider. If you apply for federal jobs, make sure that you include everything that you have done, have reliable references that will recommend you.

133

You military experience is only worth what your potential employer decides it's worth - you HAVE to sell it. Don't expect that people will respect your skills. If you decide to go reseve/guard after active duty it WILL be harder to get a job - companies do want veterans, but they prefer people whose ties with the military are completely over.

134

Having concrete and realistic goals, career paths to transition to. Without these two important factors, there's not much to transition to and beginning to process to assist you from military to civilian workforce.

135

If you are retiring you will receive no or little unemployment benefits. File for unemployment anyway. I was told during TAP, "each state is different" and to "contact my state". This is not good enough. I obtained eligibility, but my retirement pay falls into the three year window in the state run program, so reduces my benefit to $0. Once three years from filing has passed, retirement pay no longer counts against you. The state must approve your federal unemployment benefits, so make sure you file to start your clock in case you should become unemployed later.

136

1) Plan for and attend Veteran/Military-Specific Job Conerences; attend prepared to provide resumes, business cards and to interview on the spot. 2) Consider a Military Headhunter organization if you are considering a professional career after the military. 3) If you are separating or retiring from OCONUS, start your transition process (prep, resumes, field research) more than a year in advance. 4) If you are separating or retiring from OCONUS, conduct your job interviews, etc. immediately upon arrival in CONUS, then take your Leave after.

137

For those in career fields requiring civilian credentialing/certifications, obtain the civilian documentation as early in your career as possible and maintain them along the way. This includes trades like mechanics, welders, electricians, etc. Find a mentor who can assist you in annually documenting your military career experiences in a civilian-esque way so that you have a viable/competitive resume upon transition. For officers, the documentation is not quite as straight forward. Leadership/managerial experience must be translated into "corporate" vernacular. Start working your network 6-12 months out and have savings in the bank to bridge. Also remain affiliated with the Select Reserve/Guard. TRICARE Reserve Select is great medical coverage until an employer plan is offered and the income offered by drills/short tours can be invaluable in the dynamic labor marked.

138

Fake it till you make it. One would be surprised on what one is capable of doing when placed in the situation. You may not be the most qualified, but apply anyway.

139

Have a direction you want to go well before you separate and aggressively prepare yourself for attaining your goal (s). It's never to early to think about what you want to be when you grow up and waiting for until the final year of service is too late.

140

Ask yourself these 2 questions: 1. What do you want to do as a civilian? 2. Where do you want to work/what location? **Without the answers to these questions it is almost impossible to assist you in your next career. Network, Network and Network- do this well in advance; go and meet with companies who are hiring- even if you are not out of the military yet. Talk with Recruiters and Hiring Managers at Career Fairs- be Honest about your timeline and don't get discouraged when a recruiter tells you they don't have a job for you right now. Remember also; you didn't start out at the rank/level you are in the military you earned that through your hard work. The same will be for your civilian career.

141

Get out of debt before you leave the military. Do not count on earning more cash as a civilian than you did as a service member. My military take home pay was about $4,000 per month. In San Antonio, TX one would be lucky to earn a take home pay of $2,500 after taxes, Soc. Sec., medical and dental insurance premiums, etc. I had to make a huge lifestyle adjustment after leaving the military. The debts are still there and it will take me longer to pay them off with a reduced income.

142

Civilians are over sensitive.

143

Learn what resources are available to you before you separate (i.e. resume, job transition, healthcare).

144

Spend time with friends and have been in the military and understand what it was about. I found that most military clubs tend to put the emphasis on making money.by selling tips and taking a lot of veterans paychecks. Also excessive drinking which won't solve any of your problem.

145

Most civilian employers will not understand military service.

146

NETWORK! I never would have landed the position I am in if I didn't already have my name established with the company before I even applied . Getting a job has much to do with your qualifications, but that doesn't mean anything if you cannot get your resume in front of the right set of eyes. Don't use job fairs as your only source to find a job. Search forums, use LinkedIn to find recruiters to connect with, and as always, make sure you aren't using a "gimme gimme gimme" approach. People are more inclined to offer you assistance if you can offer something of value to them either through other candidates, services, or just advice.

147

DO not rely on government retirement, when you retire, unless you plan on having no bills, Unless you have a technical job skill, plan on starting at the bottom and and be prepared to move from job to job for pay raises.

148

Take time to plan your return to civilian life. Begin as far in advance as you can to research jobs, desirable locations (with the aforementioned jobs) and whether or not the state or location you're looking at offers readjustment benefits for separating veterans. Remember, those who fail to plan, plan to fail.

149

Get your training/education started before you ETS. Get all the information and a signed contract by HR in the company you are being hired by, with a firm contract. Make sure all medical needs are included in contract and you're family will be taken care of.

150

Be prepared for a much less professional work force and employees who are paid only by the hour and act accordingly.

151

Don't expect to immediately equal your military pay and benefits. You will have to start on the bottom and work your way up; but with military self-discipline and high standards, you will find civilian work relatively easy to succeed at.

152

Make certain you play into your own personal strengths and character when applying for jobs and fulfilling your newfound duties and responsibilities. Do not rely on your prior service and military accomplishments speaking for themselves because no civilian knows what the hell it all means and what your capabilities truly are.

153

Find your passion and use your experience and skillset to start your own business. Research SBA, VBOC, VetBizOpps, just to get started.

154

1 Be energetic with a positive attitude; 2 Have realistic expectations - you may be looking for a job for awhile - especially if you are limited on relocation or lack the certifications required for the positions you are seeking; 3 Your resume should reflect language in civilian terms - there are numerous websites and services that provide resume writing guidance; 4 Determine the industry you are seeking employment and join the professional association (i.e Project Management -> Project Management Institute, Process Improvement/Quality Assurance -> Association of Service Quality, Human Resources -> Association of Talent Development); 5 Setup a LinkedIn profile and use a professional looking head shot for the profile photo. Get business cards that reflect your competencies; 6 You will hear everyone express thankfulness for your service and how you should be hired based on your service experience. The reality is that most employers are risk averse to hiring veterans (and anyone else) who do not have a specialty (technical,medical, ect.) that easily adapts to their requirements; 7 Take advantage of ALL the job fairs and any opportunity to gain exposure to potential employers; 8 Rehearse 30 second introduction speech; 9 Have someone you trust provide a critique on your non-verbal messages and appearance during a mock interview.

155

Attitude. The attitude and can do spirit of the retiring individual is refreshing to the civilian workforce. But it can also be a ball and chain because your civilian counter parts do not have the same can do attitude. Be understanding and respectful of your civilian counter parts. Some of them have never been what you have been through and never will. So your attitude which has been establish from 20 plus years of battle tested fortitude may be a little much for the your new co-workers so tone it down till they get to know you.

156

Start writing your resume, networking with everyone, and defining what a successful transition looks like to you - at least 18 months out.

157

TAPS Class

158

It is not an easy task making thee transition. Two major areas you will have to deal with and conquer...effective communications skills and cultural fit. If you can get past those two aspects, you've got major problems and need to fix them ASAP.

159

Take the time to build and develop networks. Networking is essential!

160

plan ahead begin networking early to ensure a smooth transition

161

Start early planning by civilianizing your resume and learning how to increase and leverage your network to include technology.

162

Be diligent in looking for your new career of choice. Don't look at the dollar signs, they won't make you happy. Choose something you would like to see yourself doing 20 years from now. Remember, the work environment is what you make it. If you go to work with a smile on your face, chances are you'll brighter someone else's day and your day will be brighter too. If you hate your job or just hate what you're doing, get away from it. You're only making yourself miserable as well as everyone around you. Have a good attitude. It will show in how you do your job. People will notice.

163

Have a plan and find out all of the resources available to veterans in the particular city, county, and state you move to.

164

Make sure to have a plan in place prior to separation and the civilian world really doesn't think that you are special. Also, look at the area that you are moving to and make sure that the VA programs are actually available in that area.

165

Start preparing early. ACCAP is not going to help you, they spend little time on helping you write resume. The officer corps is well connected and seems to have a good understanding of the networking process. Of that is the way work in the military. The enlisted corps is not that lucky. Networking is important. Deciding what you will do and stick with it. Make sure you have a degree (4) years in that field so you can earn a living wage. You will need medical care and no one is going to pay for your family. The rules are always changing on what you can receive at the on post hospital and they don't always allow you to be seen. If you have a family the VA will not take care of them. Trying to translate you military skills to civilian is hard, using the web site tranlators will limit you. Be willing to relocate to where the jobs are for your new career.

166

Persistence -- Don't give up just because you are not hired right away. Rejection is hard to take, especially by those who are were top performers in the military. Just understand that every job interview is an opportunity to excel and prepare for each one with a positive attitude. I know too many veterans who let rejection get the best of them and quit their job search before finding the right match. If you accept a job that you really didn't want, don't stop your job search efforts. Give your employer an honest day's work, but no job is permanent. Keep your options open for the job you really want.

167

When preparing a resume, use civilian wording. Change all military wording, to include your military job description, into civilian equivalant. That help me get hired on pretty quick. DO NOT walk into a civilian job acting like you are a First Sergeant, Sergeant Major, Military Officer of what ever rank. Once you are out of the military, you are now no different than any other civilian and you will be treated that way. One cares where you came from or what your rank was. You are now an average Joe.

168

Be persistent, be patient, network, network, network.

169

Understanding that there will be a need for some type and/or degree of change process and taking ownership and responsibility for one's change process, is key. This includes an understanding that the change process will take some time and may require that the individual seek some help from others, including family, friends and outside individuals from among the many veterans organizations that are now available to assist in this transition process.

170

You must understand the principles of NETWORKING and that is how you will (percentage wise) get a job you are seeking.

171

Networking is vitally important to your transition.

172

Commit to it as much as you committed to joining the military in the first place. If you constantly have the attitude that the military life was so much better and I'm so much superior because of it, and the civilian world is horrible, incompetent, etc. ... you will have a great deal of trouble.

173

Things probably will not go as planned. If you think you have saved enough you probably havent. Do not rely on or expect ANYTHING from the VA.

174

Do not go into retirement without a sound after-retirement work plan---begin this plan one year before retirement.

175

Preparation is key and you need to plan the transition.

176

Don't dwell on who you were, but rather the skills that you developed.

177

Service members need to identify the industry that they want to work in and then seek out the required education and certifications. The civilian workforce is built on education and certifications. It may mean going back to school and learning the civilian way to do things you already perform in the military.

178

Do not limit yourself to just thinking a federal job is the "best" way to go. There are countless civilian organizations out there who offer great, if not better, opportunities and benefits compared to federal jobs.

179

Go to a small state college or local community college ASAP...get enrolled in BASIC classes...Use your GIBILL benefits and take your time deciding on your next steps..

180

First, get all of your medical issues, that you ignored to continue the mission, documented. It will make the VA claims process much easier. Also, find a Veterans Service Officer to help file and track the claim. DO NOT try to navigate the claims process yourself. Second, the civilian world is not structured at all like the military. Discipline, in my experience, usually leaves something to be desired. Third, do not take things personally and allow things to wash over your shoulder. Fourth and most important, be flexible and have a positive attitude. Your attitude will rub off on other people.

181

Start preparing early and establish contact with vets who have already made the transition, especially folks in your area of specialization.

182

Take your time and make a reasonable transition plan. Have money saved up to cover expenses for at least 6 months of unemployment between transistor and finding a new job.

183

Be prepared, stay away from the negative rumors. If you are not sure about separating do not separate from the service.

184

It’s important that they be very strategic in their approach to entering the civilian sector. There are several resources available to Veterans that can assist them with a successful transition to include the following: Connect with a Veteran who had a successful transition from the military to the civilian sector. They can serve as a Mentor and give you sound advice on how to formulate and navigate your plan to attain employment. Going back to school or attain a certification. There are many programs out there that will offer free training such as IT, project management and six sigma training. There are also many colleges and universities who have programs set up to assist with transitioning Veterans with gaining a degree which can lead to successful careers.

185

Don't become isolated.

186

Lose the jargon and specific acronyms/nomenclatures of training or equipment used on resumes. The goals are to broadly show: 1) you can learn new things quickly and easily, 2) you can multitask, 3) you have teamwork/leadership skills

187

Plan, Plan, Plan! Starting at least 2 years before you transition you need a flexible plan. Where are you moving to, what career field will you work. What certifications do you need. Meet people and build relationships with folks in the area and field that you are going into.

188

Start early, 2 years out if possible (for the careerist or 6 months out for the one-termer)

189

Plan, Plan, Plan! Starting at least 2 years before you transition you need a flexible plan. Where are you moving to, what career field will you work. What certifications do you need. Meet people and build relationships with folks in the area and field that you are going into.

190

Write a proper resume and learn how to do a good job interview and where to search for jobs.

191

With much reflection it is this: Our training, our experience and our dedication have prepared us for virtually any position in the civilian sector. Let there be no doubt in your mind that you can do the job as well as, if not better, than any employee who has not served.

192

You have to be your most influential advocate. While others have good intentions, they also have competing objectives.....as the soon-to-be transition complete person, you have to be firm and determined in the time it will take to accomplish that transition.

193

1) Make sure that you get all of your documentation and medical paperwork. Make sure to create a resume before leaving service that translates your work into understandable civilian skills. 2) Get involved with a veteran community prior to existing service as to access life outside the military. 3) Establish all basic needs and resources to help with stabilization before you get out of service.

194

Use your education benefits.

195

Make sure you have a good medical team. Behavioral health - couldn't get in three months in a row then I was out without help..

196

1. Network, network, network. 2. Learn how to network without being phony or desperate. Learn how to ask without asking. 3. Figure out your "transition equation" (company, industry, financial, education, etc?) 4. Figure out what you want to be when you grow up. 5. Narrow your search. 6. Take the resume advice the TAP programs and throw it out. Learn what a resume really needs to look like. 7. Manage your expectations; you probably won't get the money you want and the Private Sector/Civilian are completely ignorant of your skills or capability to the point of denigration.

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1. Focus in on what you want to do. I did a shotgun approach but if you know which companies you'd like to work for you can focus your efforts on connecting with people inside using all available resources to zero in.

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That your expectations of employment in the civilian world may be greatly limited due to education and civilian experience. Take transition serious and move where the best employment opportunities are not based on where your family is.

199

Prepare at least 5 years out make a plan, and adjust accordingly but at least have an idea of what you want to do and where you want to do it at. 2 years out refine the plan and start executing it.

200

connect the VA as soon as possible, the help is there WHEN you need it.

201

Start networking early and work on learning as much about the industries positions of interest as possible before you actually start looking for a job.

202

Take your time. Get involved in a good vets group. Seek help soon if you think you need it. People do want you to succeed.

203

Have at least 6months to a year of income reserved in a savings account to live off of.

204

-realize that the civilian employers appreciate your service and value your characteristics as a vet; but, you have to use the same intensity you used in the service to explore the unknown, to prep yourself, to recon, to anticipate the questions that will be asked so you can work on the answer; and you must network effectively so you get exposure to any possible job you are interested in so you can assess whether or not if fits you-you can change jobs but you should truly have interest in that first job you intend to pursue

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1. Everything is an Interview. 2. Business Card, it is a must. 3. The Resume is very important, but it is not everything. 4. Polish your Interview skills. 5. Personal Brand, it is in everything you do, say, post on-line, and what you wear. 6. Volunteering is another way to show your skills. 7. Networking opportunities happens everyday. 8. Social Media is expected. LinkedIn. 9. Research, Research, Research. 10. How well do you know your own Finances, and those of the target company?

206

To establish a network with people in the field of work you wish to pursue and to effectively translate your military skills into civilian speak.

207

Start networking early. Work HRC to get stationed near where you you want to retire so you can engage your network while still on Active Duty.

208

Join LinkedIn and be strategic about the people you connect with.

209

Find as many civilian friends as possible so you can learn what makes them tick and assimilate sooner. It's important to also have those friendships with fellow Veterans you meet because with your shared experiences you can rely on each other but you won't make any advancements in your transition by just having Veteran friends.

210

Make a solid plan well in advance, remain flexible, and make time for yourself and your plan while still on Active Duty. Make it your #1 Priority.

211

Start early!!!!

212

You should be eligible for unemployment insurance upon separation.

213

1) Figure out what do your really want to do. 2) Learn how to network, network, network.

214

Know that it is a process that takes time and patience.

215

Be proactive in deciding what you want to attempt when you leave the service. Read, research, be positive when talking with civilians and ask them what the perception of the military is in their community. Do some volunteer work as you move into the civilian sector.

216

I recommend identifying an area of interest before leaving the military so you are not completely overwhelmed when you leave the service. That is a time of extreme transition and it can be incredibly challenging.

217

The most important thing in my opinion is an understanding of where you want to be, what is important to you and your family, in terms of salary, work location, work v family obligations.

218

Have several variations of resumes and cover letters ready to be adapted per the job description. Follow-up. In the early stages it's really important to attend as many interviews as possible, as practice. Go to community networking events. Stay patient and don't take the first job that comes along if it's not the right fit.

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Start the process at least 12-18 months prior to retirement or separation date.

220

Start at least a year before you plan to transition out of the military.

221

Networking is so important

222

Be prepared for significant reduction in salary and to rebrand yourself.

223

Get as much education as possible; College, technical training, certifications, etc...

224

Know what you want and don't be afraid to take a break between military service and a civilian job.

225

Don't be constrained by thinking you don't have skills that transfer to the civilian world. Good work ethic, leadership, and the ability to work as part of a team are universal skills that are always in demand.

226

Start your resume early, begin preparing your documents for any claims you may anticipate filing with Veterans Affairs. Be patient and consistent. Save all the extra money you can, this is an important time to budget. SAVE SAVE SAVE

227

Know what you bring to the "table" and have an initial list of target employers you would consider working for. Important to the target list of potential employers, is what is the culture of the organization.

228

Be specific about accomplishments and results in your resume. Don't just list what you were responsible for. What did you actually achieve?

229

The transition is a major one and is difficult to adjust to. Take full advantage of every transition training and programs that are offered. For a major lifestyle change such as retiring, you'll experience many emotions, but hang in there and take things one step at a time and day by day!

230

Have a plan and roadmap. Start at least 24 months prior to separaration.

231

Maintain the military attitude. Especially when job searching. Make your interviews like a board review. Look for fellow veterans in your advancement and look for fellow veterans to advance.

232

Network. Go to American Job Centers. Research career fields and companies. Stop believing that because you are a veteran the job will be handed to you.

233

Go beyond TAPS GPS or whatever it is called at your time of separation. Begin early, as much as mission will allow if you plan on leaving the state in which you separate than contact the state you are heading to and reach out to the local WIOA and EDD employment teams in that city or county they can help with all sorts of info and assist your transition.

234

Search & Consider All options to make use of your government service time already spent, ensuring future success. Life time endeavor - build on skills of interest to fit alternate career paths with retirement (pension) benefits couple with professional -personal development.

235

Assess your experience, depth, and knowledge objectively, and apply it to different fields

236

Find out Frist what is offered and how to apply and who to talk too

237

Figure out what you want to do in post-military life. Get others to help you do that. Be self-aware about your passions, your strengths, your values.

238

Go where the jobs are. In 1998 I was allowed to search for jobs across the country 6 months prior to ETS. Everyone has their priorities, if making money is one of them, go where the money is.

239

Keep everything medical records, supply inventory, make sure before you get out to do a last medical evaluation on your own. Consider talking to current vets that just got out within 1-5yrs so maybe they can assist you and point you in the right direction. People always say they got your back until its time to find them.

240

1) Plan out your transition. 2) Arrange for a job or school before your ETS. 3) Get aquatinted with a Veteran Service Organization in the area you are moving to. 4) Keep in close contact with veteran friends. (support system) 5) Talk about your troubles with a loved one or counselor. (don't be ashamed)

241

Don't fool yourself into believing your military service is valued. It is not. You are a psycho who cannot be trusted. Hide your service. "Peace Corp Volunteer" is better than Soldier any day.

242

Start transition about 6-9 months out. You can't be in the military one day and just appear "on the other side" the next.

243

do not anticipate that anywhere along the process; will those who are conducting your transition, assist you in understanding what exactly are your benefits and how complicated and bureaucratic they are to get you into the system, and treated fairly in doing so. The system is comprised of different standards and associated by pay grade and position upon your separation and or retirement. IT SHOULD BE ONE STANDARD!

244

Listen to those who love you and those who try to help. We're often more damaged than we want to admit. (AKA A fish doesn't know he's wet.)

245

Make sure you have money in a saving account because you will need it to set up your new home.

246

Don't take too long of a break and don't expect civilian counterparts to be even remotely like the people you worked with in the military.

247

Take any job you get and don't expect to live comfortably.

248

No institution cares if you served. Yeah you get 5 veterans points in hiring but its essentially meaningless. Companies will hire a college grad who has never done anything over a veteran every day of the week

249

Plan on 1-3 job changes following transition. What you think you want to do may change as you realize you are free to make your own vocational choices.

250

Start planning for new career early. Having a plan means to explore your chosen career field, start training/education to make yourself stand out in that field. Have a back up plan for when primary plan falls through and jobs are not available. Do not plan on / count on government contractor jobs; they are increasingly rare.

251

If you don't have a job offer in hand when you leave, ensure you have six months worth of money saved up (with a degree in engineering, and as an engineer officer, it took over a year to find a career). Understand expectation management, if you are looking for a career instead of a job. There is no 'in-processing' checklist to separation, so even if you think you have everything figured out, there will be something you didn't account for as a civilian.

252

Focus on resumes when you are in ACAP, especially the Federal one. Do your VA Claim immediately after discharge. On your ETS Physical list EVERY ache and pain, both mental and physical.

253

The first statement that comes to mind is "Don't do it, stay in!" But if you really want to get out you need to have a plan A and a plan B. I would suggest starting to plan a year before you separate.

254

Have a support system outside of work. Don't expect your civilian workplace to take the place of the military when it comes to finding new buddies.

255

Start Early. Vist your transition office when your window opens.

256

There are no hand outs, being a vet dosent get you special treatment, I've noticed it's the opposite. Use your work ethic to your advantage.

257

Be prepared for the huge volume of information form the transition processing center. We do a very poor job of teaching troops what to expect during the process. The process is frustrating and not a good note to leave the service on. Finding a job on the outside is not as easy as one would expect. Employers are not interested in our service experience. They are interested in civilian education which many of us passed on to further our Military education.

258

Make a plan and stick to it.

259

Know what you want to do and understand the path to get there. I had tons of resources but they were unless because i didn`t know what i wanted life after the military.

260

Start doing your research a year out for your ETS date. Figure out what you want to do, and if you're going to take advantage of your GI Bill. Being prepared will make the transition a lot easier.

261

Unless you are blind sided by transitioning (due to force shaping) plan at least 2 yrs out. less than 7 months is not enough time especially if you are deployed when told or at a remote CONUS base with no support.

262

Try to have something lined up before your final paycheck. Don't expect much from employers, even "veteran friendly" employers, interviews. Most don't care how long you were in, or what you did. Their profits matter more than your service. Most don't even know what to make of you or your service, but will say "thanks for your service" right before you don't get the job.

263

No one in the civilian job market is going to understand what skills you have. And that the positive skill-set you learned in the military is not common place. Things like dependability, being punctual, understanding deadlines, chains of command, loyalty, implied tasks, being able to talk to people face to face instead of via email and even a rudimentary knowledge of how to work as a team are completely alien to most.

264

Stay in shape, don't drink, get a practical degree with your benefits. Get a good advocate to battle the VA. Get your disability and appeal lined up as fast as you can. Then hit college hard while simutaneously doing cognitive behavior therapy. Remember, nobody owes you anything.

265

Military transitioning is a leap of faith, employment-wise. When you file the paperwork to get out, it is way too early to find a job. When you go on terminal leave, it's still usually too early to find a job. You have to be financially prepared for the transition in all scenarios. Also, go through the VA process ASAP when you get out as it could easily begin interfering with work. The VA process is broken, but necessary.

266

Get your degree/training needed for the civilian side of the house. No matter what you know or how good you are at your job, nothing matters out here other than having a piece of paper from an institution of higher learning. It's sad but true, I tell people all the time that my 25 years in the Army gave me a PHD but it's not worth a dime on the outside. So bottom line, do what you have to in order to get that piece of paper in your hand.

267

Learn how to sell your military accomplishments to a civilian recruiter; how does your military experience benefit their company.

268

When u r leaving someone needs to tell u point blank that it is going to be extremely hard. The workforce is not as accommodating to Veterans as u may think.

269

Keep busy. I immediately started taking college classes at a community college, and worked a part-time job.

270

Maintaining friendships is difficult, and jobs now simply just don't amount to how awesome it was being in.

271

Planning for ETS should take place at least a year in advance of even filing the paperwork, or the expiration of your service term. Don't expect transition counseling and required training to be worth a damn, either. If you come from a combat arm and are worried about marketable skills, using your GI Bill to go to school could work, but you need to treat it like your new full-time job, not as a vacation. Consider your major or program very carefully, and well in advance of your decision to go to school--admissions testing takes a lot of time and study. Don't be afraid to consider trades if that is more to your liking, but again, choose the skills/certifications and schools carefully before committing funds. Budgeting will also be key.

272

Pray you have a supportive chain of command that affords you adequate time (12-15 months) to "prepare" and doesn't pull childish tricks like lose your retirement paperwork for almost 4 months, just so they can hurry up and rush you out!

273

Job building skills. no help was given on resume building. how to prepare for civilian work sector. no info on what colleges were looking for veterans. i know now. but when i did ACAP, had no clue what i was doing when i got out.

274

If you don't have a job in the military that easily transitions into a civilian job, earn a degree or skill that will before you get out.

275

Make sure that your unit helps you with getting out. Mine did not help, without some phone calls, I retired as a E9. If you have problems give a call to some of the service agencies

276

figure some of the big stuff out before you get out, even if you plan on going to school-run degree audits so you can maximize courses.

277

Be prepared to deal with civilians, as they are not as professional, or as Courteous and there is no military bearing out here!!!

278

start networking early; get a realistic expectation of what your are qualified for. too many veterans after 20 years of service think they are above starting at the bottom of a company to work their way up; even though they may be going into the same field its still a career change

279

1. Know the type of job you want to pursue and develop goals that support your choice. 2. Recruiters aren’t the enemy. 3. If you have 20+ years of leadership experience, save yourself the time and effort and skip corporate management development programs. 4. Bias against Veterans does exist. 5. Put yourself out there. Don't afraid to ask for help from industry leaders. Always grow your network. 6. If you live in a major metropolitan area with a military base nearby, the market is potentially flooded with qualified veterans. 7. Avoid “dating” yourself in your resume and LinkedIn profile. Age discrimination is alive and well. Generally, avoid graduation dates outside of the last 10 years. The same goes for work experience; focus on the last 10 years (15 max). 8. Eliminate “retired” on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Whether enlisted or officer, that word paints you into the re-TIRED corner. 9. Don’t hide your military service either. 10. If you are expecting to be a supervisor just because you supervised people in the military, then readjust your expectations. Regardless of your experience or education, you will have to prove your worth to the company that hires you before you’re moved into positions of greater responsibility. 11. Check your online presence (“Google yourself”). First impressions are crucial. Whether you like it or not, your online presence IS your reputation to employers. 12. Know your job salary ranges. Salary data is very useful for preliminary phone interviews if salary comes up. If anything, you’ll know who’s trying to lowball you and who’s on the up & up. O-net and Glassdoor are probably the easiest resources to use, but the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) site is the gold standard. 13. Have someone else pay for your certifications. Lets face it, certs are expensive. If you can, get someone else to pay for them. If you have to shell out money, get the cheapest cert and make sure its applies to multiple industries. FYI, bigger firms are generally more willing to pay for certs than smaller ones. 14. Lay out your goals in your interview. This goes hand-in-hand with #13. When you're interviewing, lay our your goals like, “I want to get my (insert your industry cert). How does your company help its employees with a goal like this?” If that company can help you, great. If they can’t, it may be an indicator other things. 15. Don’t neglect your LinkedIn headline and summary. Contrary to popular belief, LinkedIn is a search engine disguised as a professional networking site. It uses a proprietary algorithm to rank and order profiles when you search for people. This is where your summary and headline is key. You have 2,000 characters in your summary with which to drive search results to you. Fill it with relevant key words and terminology for your career field. For your headline, it helps to add more than positions you’ve held or your career field. Think about adding what you bring to the table or what problem you can fix.

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I went from active duty (for seven years) into the reserves (for about a little more than two years) until finally being medically discharged. I would highly advise veterans to join the guard or the reserves. It will lighten the fall immensely and help to transition. You will be a civilian, but you will also not be entirely disconnected. When you give your DD-214 to the VA, ensure you give it to both the medical and the education departments separately -- they do not talk to one another and even though I technically sent my DD-214 to the VA, I did not get my Chapter 33 GI Bill housing allowance for months and I could not figure out why. They thought I was still active duty and wanting to use my GI Bill. Have a plan, there will be a huge drop in pay. You will be amazed and astonished at how your civilian friends (who never joined) ever survived as Millennials in this economy.

281

Get any job you can because employers don't care about veteran status.

282

Two things that will greatly benefit your transition into civilian life: support structure and contingency plans. Support structure can either be the main drive/goal that motivates you to move on or people in your life that support you in all your endeavors (mentors, friends, or family). Contingency plans: there must be several goals you have in mind to accomplish; whether it be pursuing an education or a specific job. That said, have a Plan A, Plan B, Plan C, and Plan D. The more plans you have the more likely you are to be successful in your transition. As a Veteran, we should be accustomed to Plan A falling through and moving on from there. Therefore, one would be better prepared to take the next step to Plan B and so on.

283

Don't put yourself out of an employment opportunity by expecting and demanding too high a salary.

284

Have a plan, know what you want to do (I.e education, and in what field, or employment, and in what area / field).

285

1) The importance of Research and Meeting People (networking); 2) Stay Positive; 3) Take time to celebrate my (and family's) military service

286

Start developing a network with people in career fields you may be interested in working.

287

You need to begin planning for life beyond the military early in your career. This includes keeping and maintaining a resume, expanding your civilian education in a field that you would like to pursue when your time is over, and begin the transition process as early as possible. They say retirement is not an event it is a process and that is absolutely correct.

288

Attend your transition classes and take advantage of all the transition assistance you can.

289

The best advice would be: have a career goal, work towards your education goals. Don't get caught in the on and off orders. Now that you are civilian, focus on the civilian life. Find a mentor who can help you navigate this new arena.

290

It's important to remember that you're starting over. Yes, you have a lot of experience that has value, but if you're entering a new industry you have no experience in that industry. No one would take a brand new soldier and make them a squad leader, even if they had 10 years of leadership experience in another industry and the same is true of veterans leaving the service.

291

While your transitioning out your provided a lot of good resources. Take your time & take advantage of them ALL. don't be in such a rush to get out. You have it better than you think and no matter what you think, you'll miss it.

292

That with all the bad press that the military has received on veterans that you are perceived to have a stigmatism. Veterans have PTSD or are Depending upon some type of drug.

293

Don't count on SFL or ACAP they have done nothing for me that other community service could provide such as County Career Center. Other agencies seem more willing to assist in my career search. Practice that interview speech.

294

Prepare BEFORE separation.

295

Understand that transition is much more complicated and nuanced than you think it might be.

296

Figure out what will instill the same passion in you that you felt while wearing the uniform once you take it off. If you don't, you're are bound to be unhappy and dissatisfied.

297

Begin the process early. The dream job in a dream location may not be possible. It's better to find that out early.

298

The power of Networking is King.

299

Take the time to focus on what career path you want to pursue through self analysis and online tools and by researching those fields.

300

Start networking with civilians in the geo location and employment field you're interested in NOW. Take all available TAP-GPS courses in your geo location and online.

301

I was reminded that things do not work in the civilian world as they do in the military. Services, orderliness, accountability, and chain of responsibility are often less clearly defined.

302

Ask all questions needed prior to and have good contact info regarding benefits, etc.

303

Those in the combat arms MOSs have a more difficult time transitioning because their skills are not as marketable. Advance planning and preparation are a must. There was not such program as TAP when I retired. Use such resources to diminish separation shock.

304

Don't be so dqmned picky about your next job. Find one and do it well. It's easier to find a job I'd you have a job. And don't fall in to the trap of thinking that you are special or that anyone owes you anything. I worked three jobs before finding my permanent job. Each of those three jobs contributed in a significant way to me landing my permanent job. Also, no one cares how much you "need" to earn. They only care what your contributions are worth. We still live in a capitalist society; your income is based on your worth not your needs.

305

Your loose friend network will help you find your next opportunity. The resume is secondary to the fact that it is more about who knows your reputation and is willing to align an opportunity for you. Second, make sure you get your medical evaluations completed within 3 months of leaving active duty, however, be sure to follow up on all your appointments.

306

I think the most important lesson I learned is being flexible is key in transitions. Things happens that seem bad at times, but it can turn out to be a blessing in the long run.

307

You can't think and act the same way in this civilian world as you did within your military branch of service.

308

Get all of your VA stuff out of the way before you get out. Also get as much college as you can while you're in.

309

Get your college degree before retirement, learn how to network, and expect to start below what your skill,knowledge, military education and experience demonstrates what your really worth. I have found that even other Veterans who could help you get a foot in the door do not go out of thier way to do so or they are cut off by the HR personnel before they can get to hiring managers. It's harder to land a decent position that pays well than transition workshops and vet assistant organization make it out to be.

310

Reduce financial stress and anxiety during and after transition by reducing debts as much as possible, and saving 6months-1year of pay prior to discharge. It takes that long to develop an effective resume, apply for jobs and begin the process of receiving a form of income. Reducing financial stress and anxiety has also been proven to reduce stress and anxiety in other areas, such as relationships. This can improve clarity of thought, judgement and lead to opportunities that were not forseen.

311

Think long term.

312

Culture Shock going from We to Me, Inc.

313

Get all the benefits and resources you can from the military before getting out.

314

You have to remember that no one owes you anything. You will have to work as hard at your future endeavors as you did in the military, but there will be no one there forcing you into success. Even a nation grateful for your service is not required to provide you an opportunity over someone who is better than you, or who will outwork you. Don't ever let anyone outwork you.

315

Transitioning is a job!

316

Research the transition process and establish early your personal processes/systems to accomplish all the key and essential tasks.

317

Take ownership of your career and your life. No one will take care of you like they did in the military.

318

very few potential emoyers understand the benefits of hiring a military member. You have to as a veteran frame your experience in a way to show them everythingthey get in you as a person that relates to civilian work.

319

Transition assistance (ACAP). It help me apply for jobs and honed my interview skills and also refined my resume.

320

Allow yourself to get some support whether in the VA system or outside of it. A lot of people I know intentionally transition into civilian positions that are still affiliated with the military for one reason or another. Easy job to get, maybe, but also still what they are familiar with. While this may sound like a good idea initially, I have seen many of these positions come and go because they are contracting jobs. Also don't be afraid to go back to school and use your benefits. That is what they are there for. If you have spent your entire adult life serving, it is time for you to do something else that you actually enjoy. If you are having personal issues with your transition, stress, anxiety, and so on, PLEASE don't be afraid to get some support. The suck it up and drive on mentality may have worked during service, but the OPTEMPO out here is much slower and if you are used to being on all the time and functioning under high level of stress consistently, it will be a shock to the system when you flip the switch to civilian mode.

321

REACH OUT TO FELLOW VETERANS. As a veteran, your network absolutely amazing. Psychologically, there was definitely some adjustment throughout the transition process, but in terms of resources, employment and support, I was surrounded at every single turn with people and organizations who were willing to help-I had to make the initial contact, but as soon as I did, everyone bent over backwards to help and support me.

322

be aware of what your MOS really does, start a resume and get someone to look at it. Build yourself up and let them know how hiring a Veteran is an asset to their company.

323

As soon as you decide in your mind that you will either retire or separate, start networking and researching. Start getting your resume prepared early. Don't rely solely on one source. Use multiple sources of information. It may seem like overload but the earlier you start the better. One thing I have heard many of my friends who separate say is they wait until after they take leave or when they officially leave to start job searching. Do it as early as possible. I started working while on Transition leave. I took about 30 days of leave only to relocate and get familiar with the location I moved to. It was a personal choice for me but I knew I didn't want a lag time in between being a single parent, I needed to start working.

324

Take time to contact your mentors and others you know who have retired to get their input on transitioning and how to get your foot in the door. Many folks will say, Send me your resume and I'll forward it to our HR. In my case that did nothing. Even though you are loath to do it, take advantage of those offers of writing recommendations. It is who you know.

325

Start planning early and come up with a back-up plan

326

1. Relax. You don't have to be on point all the time everytime. Don't expect your coworkers to be either. 2. Failure is an option. No one's life is on the line. You don't have to be on time or else. Some failure is expected. We all go home at night regardless. 3. Take risks. Accept blame. Be humble.

327

Understand the current job market and be willing to reinvent yourself or take action to become more marketable.

328

Put the military chapter of your life behind you as quickly as you can. You're a civilian now. Adapt.

329

Make sure you understand your military benefits; file service connected disability claims while you are still on active duty; have at least a 6 month emergency savings account; take advantage of all the TAPS services available.

330

If your dreams encompass being in uniform, do not ETS. If this is not possible, attempt to obtain a career conducive to teamwork, discipline, and honor such as first responder or law enforcement.

331

Start planning early. Decide on job or geography. Begin networking based on that decision. Understand you are not alone.

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First, ensure your military skills can be readily translated into a civilian career. Just using "leadership" skills won't cut it and only widens the competition. I was enlisted US Army Infantry, Field Artillery, Finance, then Medical Service Corps (IT) for a total of 30 years AD. Take classes on your own time if possible. Second, begin the job search at least 1 year out. You will hear that's too long, but that notion is hogwash. You will learn to great pieces of information doing so: a) You will learn how your fare in the job market at that time; b) You will learn how to narrow your job search (geographical, career, and so forth). Both will save time and agony. Third, do not oversell or undersell yourself. Find your market worth. Look up what the civilian job market is paying for your job skills and let the facts sink in. Fourth, do not believe that in today's job market there is some overwhelming ideal of mutual respect, job security, or honor as a general rule. Once you have figured that out, you will proceed with your eyes wide open. There are some employers that value their employees greatly and seek them out if your job skills match. Fifth, do not be affraid to go back to school (even part-time) to keep up with the job market. I still believe in life long learning and it's a valuable fact of life and employment. If you aren't willing to keep up with the "change" pace, you won't be marketable. Sixth, network, network, network. Join professional organizations, community organizations, and volunteer to help those in need. It should be an essential part of your nature leaving the military so don't let those skills get rusty. Networking can often lead to new positions of greater responsibility as well. Also, help those in need of a job where and when you can, but realize that your "name" is going on their job application as a reference. Have fun, plan for your future in the civilian market. Be prepared for rejection (which comes more often than acceptance) and keep moving forward. Honor your family, friends, and colleagues daily. They are your most important support group so don't treat them poorly. If you need medical attention (such as PTSD) get it and don't be ashamed. You are not alone unless you choose to be alone! Get on Linkedin -- it's that important. Other social media is for fun, but don't waste much time on it! I entered military service as a Private E-1 and spent 6 years enlisted. Then, after college graduation, I was commissioned a 2LT and served another 24 years retiriing as a Colonel. I never had a "rank" issue during or since my transition to civilian life--that's resulted in enormous success (career and financial). I'm proud of my military service, but have been able to be just as proud of my civilian career choices.

333

Learn how to target your employment goals and narrow it down as much as possible to include the employer or industry then while still in the service seek out the education, skills, experience, credentialing, and certifications that will get you the job you desire. The military can and will provide if you are wise to seek it out and apply for it. And finally, learn how to translate what you did into civilian terminology and equate the skills and tasks you have completed to your civilian counterparts. While emphasizing your military training, leadership, and soft skills.

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1) Earn your bachelors or higher degree; 2) Get civilian certifications you've earned; should have gotten my A&P License as well as my BS degree.

335

Be aware that most businesses have no idea about anything military related. Just because you may be of a certain rank, don't expect to receive anything. Have as much of a financial cushion as possible. Expect to hear no, a lot.

336

Make sure you have your next steps firmly lined up before leaving.

337

Be persistent, and aim for any job that you have experience in. Dont give up.

338

Only 10% of your job applications will result in an interview.

339

You will be very shocked as too how little people know about what skill sets you present and how little respect you receive as a veteran in the civilian sector.

340

Be patient. Civilians think differently and act differently than we do. Network now to transition smoothly into the workforce.

341

1) Learn to read a job announcement for content then learn to develop a targeted resume specifically to the job. 2) Quality over quantity..

342

Play to your strengths and leverage your skills. Also, network outside your own group to expand your influence and reach.

343

Learning how to write a resume and what HR process and how they screen out candidates and how to translate military skills into civilian skills.

344

Do everything you can to observe and learn about your new employment culture. Listen and watch. Each organization is unique. Reach out to other veterans/veteran organizations; these can be good connections and allies in your transition. Change for what direction you want to go, not what you want to avoid.

345

Keep in mind that the military leadership is a lot sharper and faster to adapt than the public civilian sector is in law enforcement. Yet law enforcement loves to recruit and promote prior military. Any leadership schools and training you can attend while still on active duty is a really big plus to help you in the civilian world.

346

Know your worth, as a veteran you offer many exceptional skill sets. But also know that, "old dogs can't learn new tricks", is complete nonsense. There are too many options and support systems for us veterans. We can make it, no one gets left behind

347

Learn how to deal with civilians! It is a two way street. We have a hard time relating to them and they have a hard time understanding us. It is like two different worlds. I also believe the longer you are in, the harder it is to relate to them. Learn how to sell yourself and translate your military skills to civilian ones.

348

Do your homework and line up an opportunity or two before leaving the military. There is a question of what is important to you not just money? Make a list and then see if the opportunity will give you that fulfillment you are missing..

349

Be sure to have a copy of your medical records, DD214 and all awards you have received. Be checking into Civilian jobs before you get out. I got out in Belgium, then lived another two years there and in Germany. I didn't have a lot of the information I should have been given when I ETS'd. It made it difficult to get Veteran's Care. I have not been able to file for disability because my medical records seem to have disappeared.

350

Figure out what kind of career you want to target, and prepare for it WHILE still in the military, preferably 2 to 3 years out. This means working on certifications, degrees, gaining knowledge about, etc... Also if you are lucky enough to have a job in the military related to this targeted career, get help putting together a description of what you did that can be easily read by a civilian.

351

Use LinkedIn as a base to get you and your information out there. Start at least 1 year out when looking for "the job". And make use of resume polishing services offered for free by recruit military and hire heroes.

352

Start the transition process well in advance of your separation date. I started too late, less than 5 months before retiring.

353

Take as many resume, interview and networking workshops and seminars as possible. Don't rush getting out once you receive your orders for separation. And focus on translating military skills into effective civilian skill sets. It will broaden and strengthen marketing yourself.

354

Determine where you want to live first and the job prospects. Then you must have a known reference in that business.

355

Education - maximize whatever transferable college credit you can get while on active duty and then once your out, use the GI Bill money and be laser focused on getting a 4 yr degree. Advice for the for any enlisted soldier or NCO.

356

Given the harsh realities of the contemporary job market and how it's shifting, veterans should start planning their exit some years before their actual transition date. This includes many things, but chief are knowing where they're at, what skills they bring, to the table, what companies they want to work for, and where they should relocate to get themselves on a firm footing.

357

Employment expectations were too high after getting out.

358

Plan ahead! Know what you are going to do when you get out. Prepare for a let down--like civilian life feeling "too slow" with not enough to do. Best advise--go immediately into some kind of training or education program. Find a new PT routine that you don't hate.

359

To make a copy of all your Medical and Military Records before you leave. Get all your training documents and make copies of them before you separate as you will not be able to get them when you get out. Start sending out your Resume to companies you would like to work for letting them know your status.

360

Take the time to plan for your future career by attending job seminars and doing personal research to determine the best fit for your skills. Don't set you sights too high with regard to salary, but look for companies that have upward mobility opportunities.

361

Learn how to tailor a resume to the job. Shot gunning the same resume to EVERY potential employer does not work.

362

Know what you want to do and start networking and preparing well in advance to make a smooth transition.

363

Military is not specifically translatable to civilian work. Your experience must be translated to project management experience. Your specific military training is irrelevant. You will even find some employers who fear you will "abuse" your subordinates.

364

Show up on time. be where you need to be when you need to be there

365

Either transition into the field that you know, or go to school and get the education you need to get the job that you want. And regardless of your MOS, you possess skills that are badly needed win the job market; leadership skills, organizational skills, technical skills, even if you were an infantryman. So do not let your MOS get in the way of getting the job you want. Wording on resumes is key, and every skill you learned can be translated into a skill in today's job market.

366

be willing to change everything: your skills, behaviors, location, appearance, resume, standard of living, etc.

367

Use a local Veteran Center career counselor for transition and research openings on USA jobs and your local career link office (it's free for veterans).

368

Network with other veterans that have transitioned from the military to the civilian workforce. It may be something you hear all the time, but getting their experience will better help you get that job.

369

Realize that you bring a skill set to a new employer that has benefits but you also have to be open to new ideas. I have seen too many veterans expect that their way is always the best and always superior to others. Rank isn't a determinant of success. Realize that in most companies, you will be supporting yourself and that's okay.

370

Take time and consider your career options. Don't just jump into something.

371

Working in the military you learn preparation, planning, team work and confirmation. In civilian life, in some organizations they do accomplish these tasks. But in some they don't even come close. As long as you, maintain your "esprit de core" , you will prevail and feel satisfied that you did your job and your job in assisting others.

372

Civilian employers will continue to add responsibilities until you say no. There is no responsibility of 'soldier care' from leaders so you will be pushed until you fail if you do not say stop.

373

Utilize the available resources that can make transitioning from the military to civilian life easier, whether it's through the local VA office or the base transition office.

374

Everyone is looking for the discipline and Mission focus that military members bring to a company. Few of them, however can say that due to squirrely HR and hiring systems. Worse, the Military MOS's, AFSC's, ratings, etc do not readily translate into Civilian Descriptions. Best advice, take what looks to be a match in jobs, then spend the first year of the job talking to your contemporaries about the system, and how career progression works within your industry.

375

Start working on certification for your civilian equivalent of your military MOS before you transition from the military.

376

Listen to the issues each individual is having whether it be good or otherwise then make a decision as to the path to help that person take

377

I would recommend that a individual should have at least completed a Bachelor's Degree in the field of study that matches the type of job you would seek as a career when you leave the service. Even if it is in a different field than your military career.

378

To have better supports from the military, both while still on active duty as well as for the newly separated veteran.

379

Utilize your educational benefits and file a disability claim.

380

Be prepared. I would at least enroll in a community college or university in order to advance your skills to meet the workforce requirement. Every one served in the Armed Forces, had a different MOS. It depends on what job you were in if it is transferable outside of the military.

381

Have a plan

382

remember your discipline and be the best at whatever you do

383

Don't get discouraged from all the companies that say they hire vets and don't. keep trying eventually you'll find the right company / job.

384

To just enjoy the experience of meeting new friends and learning how people from around the word live. Keep an open mind in every experience you are given.

385

Pursue an Associate's Degree at a local Community College. The interactions with civilians, both teachers and students, will help ease the transition in the workforce, and my experience shows that the degree holds more weight than the military experience

386

get better help with converting resumes from military to civilian speak.

387

1) Be Bold - go in if you can and ask to speak to HR or the hiring authority and drop off your resume. Don't just send it in and hope for a call. 2) Be Brave - low risk = low reward. Higher risk = higher reward. I know you are used to a steady paycheck. But commission work isn't all bad if you work at it. 3) Be Patient - Don't be afraid to accept an entry level position and then prove yourself. Your military skills will show through and propel you upwards. Besides - remember - It's a lot easier to find a job, if you have a job.

388

Start the transition process at least two years out because you have to get used to the idea of being a regular civilian. Being in the Army shields us from most of the typical everyday hardships, but when you are no longer a Soldier in uniform you will no longer have that luxury. It's not as easy as everyone makes it out to be in the civilian world. You'll have to work hard to get a good job offer that may pay you something close to what you were being paid from the military.

389

Network, Network and Network. If you attend a job fair stop at every employer and ask what they do. You may not have a clue based on the company name what they have available for openings. If you just walk by you may have passed your perfect career.

390

How to translate your skills from military jargon to be understandable to a civilian interviewer. The second most important skill (but still related) is to be able to find out what the company is looking for and to show how you have the experience at doing that job or skill. After that - networking.

391

Find help getting into the VA system - it's so difficult. Line up a job before leaving the service, if possible.

392

Line up work prior to ets

393

Do not attempt to hide or minimize your military service. Highlight your leadership, attention to detail, and work ethic. Many of us that were in the military either were or became very good at problem solving, often with little or no resources. This is something that employers like to see and appreciate.

394

Have a plan, even if you don't have any intentions of leaving the service. My medical issue crept up, and put me out. Luckily I had a plan and was able to enter the civilian sector without any major issues.

395

Look at all your options. Make sure getting out is really what is best for you.

396

Prepare yourself early. Like all military training, the TAP classes have information that is way out of date. Also, prepare yourself for a reduction in salary.

397

Obtain the highest college degree you can while on active duty that you feel would support your civilian career. Ensure your security clearance is current if you have one.

398

1) Start your VA disability claim 6 months before you get out. 2) Prepare your resume 1 year before you get out. 3) Start looking for a job or applying for school 9 months before you get out.

399

When planning on leaving the military work on your resume,, do job searches and do budget analysis to understand your finances...at least a year out. Work on lowering your debt or paying them off prior to leaving military.

400

1) Prepare early and have a plan. Don't wait until the last minute like so many do when transitioning. Try to leave on your own terms so as to ensure your planning is successful. 2) Network outside the military as often as possible and learn the civilian lexicon, drop the military lexicon. 3) Embrace the new chapter, but retain the qualities that made you a great leader in the military!

401

Have a plan. Build your network. Take time while you are still on active duty to take care of yourself - remember there are people out there starting their transition at 18 months or more out. Don't be one of these guys that is looking for some waiver to get out six months early for that once in a lifetime job opportunity - take advantage of those six months to prepare for transition and collect six more paychecks. File for unemployment benefits right away - some states (WA) will deny those benefits if you apply past the 12 month mark - Where did they go? Transfer your G.I. Bill to your dependents prior to leaving active duty. Don't try to do it all alone. They average guy only spends about 2 years doing high speed contracting jobs. Don't sit at home drinking, screwing, and playing video games expecting someone to come knocking on your door offering you a six figure job - get out there - it's your transition. Pay attention during SFL-TAP, you'll get out of it what you put into it. Finish your degree while on active duty. If not a bachelors degree, at least get your associates degree. Take advantage of internships and fellowships to avoid being one of those veterans who jumps at the first job they are offered and end up quitting that job in less than a year. Conduct a target analysis of the career and role you want. Put yourself in a mindset where you are ready for your civilian career. Remember that nobody besides (company name removed) or the like will hire you just because you are a veteran. Lots of companies are veteran ready and will give you a discount our a freebie once a year, but few are veteran ready and prepared with on-boarding, mentoring, and retention programs which are focused on veteran hires.

402

Transition into the civilian workforce is necessary but never forget that you are a veteran and take advantage of all benefits, services and agencies that provide them.

403

Civilians are, for the most part, (removed) that will make you want to yell at them. Don't yell at them. Thanks for your service.

404

Don't focus on changing yourself to fit the norm. Focus on ways to build rapport with others even when their experience doesn't match yours. They can use skills you've built, but won't know it. They have to see it, but would take listen if you say it. Just show them.

405

Plan ahead as much as possible.

406

Build your network. Who you know matters.

407

Start early

408

Begin the transition process as early as possible. Seek out and consult advice from those who have transitioned and as well as those who are also transitioning with you. Though no two transition experiences are the same, however there are many similarities in the process. Commit to learning those lessons first and then build upon those experiences to benefit your transition process.

409

Start earlier than you think necessary.

410

Take care of yourself. Get your BA claim started early and stay on top of it.

411

Figure out what you want to do and ensure your resume speaks to it….Linked IN is a must.

412

If you're using GI Bill, "Budget for the Break!" And also consider online (Distance Learning) courses with minimal butt-in-seat classes. You're still able to draw full MHA.

413

You will meet people in informal situations that may turn into opportunities. Therefore, whatever you are working on, be excellent and always be "on." Always be engaged, accessible, positive, and respectful. You never know when it will serve you well.

414

Understand what you bring to a civilian employer and clearly translate how your skills and experience are a fit with a potential employer.

415

You are starting over at the very bottom, no matter how much responsibility you held in the service. Most of the civilian world simply doesn't care.

416

Have a plan at least a year out. Take the time to weigh your options on where to live, what it is you want to do for the rest of your life.

417

Don't expect to find a job that matches your experience level or leadership capability. To the rest of the world, veterans are high school graduates that forgot to get a job after high school or college.

418

Take advantage of the benefits the VA snd Army offers as you're leaving... Don't ignore them.

419

Refine your value proposition to your future employer. Clearly define what you bring and how it will benefit their business immediately. Also, do as many informational interviews as you possibly can. Transitions are hard - especially if you want something other than an entry level position.

420

Have your documents ready and dont let anyone tell you no.

421

LinkedIn!! Use this website and learn how to write a proper resume. The DoL workshops are perfect for this as well as using your transition counselor.

422

While many Military Occupational Specialties do *not* transition *quickly* into civilian occupations, nearly *all* soldiers, sailors, airmen, and others have gained a great *deal* of leadership and management skills, even those who have only experienced them from the lower ranks of the military. Employ what has been learned and progress from the beginning steps within civilian life rather than expecting to start where your non-military peers have progressed to during your military years.

423

Military experience is misunderstood. Leadership experiences are not equal to or greater than college education or civilian experience.

424

Don't undervalue your experience. Be sure to ask for your true worth.

425

You need to understand the business world. It is totally different then the military. Your experience is stronger then all civilians, but you need to understand their world.

426

Don't judge your own success by that of your peers. Analyze your own values to determine what is important to you, then go for it. Take risks. Be happy. Be a better person than you were yesterday and let that be the only person you compete or compare with. and the most important thing I've learned is that I don't need drugs or alcohol to cope. I have just over two years sober and I've never been healthier or happier.

427

Network, network, network!

428

Make sure you have a plan. I had no plan when I separated and have had a rough go of it ever since.

429

Communication in the civilian work environment is much more nuanced and indirect. In the military, directness and bluntness are valued. They are highly disfavored in the civilian sector. Be advised

430

Seek civilian recruiting firms at least 1 year prior to exiting service, they will be bale to place you with at least a contract position very quickly

431

Get your degree while in the service. While experience is good, all the experience in the world won't get you the job you want unless you have a degree to back it up.

432

Learn to talk, dress and act like a civilian.

433

Start the job hunt early and be open to working in a field you may not originally have considered. Many jobs these days are transitional and what you start with may not be what you end with but it will get your foot in the door and some experience for your resume.

434

have friends and associate before retiring from the military. it makes the transition easier

435

There's no one really in charge in the civilian world; in other words, the structure in some businesses & companies is so loose that it is annoying to military personnel used to structure. Advice is to seek a company that has a strong sense of organization, if that is appealing to you. Working as a civilian for a military-base organization or contractor is the most comfortable work for retired military in my opinion.

436

I recommend that you stay in for at least 20 years to receive retirement benefits, and increase your eligibility for civilian employment. Most veterans that I talked to who left the military early say they wish they hadn't. If you are determined to get out, then have a plan, especially for employment. The job market in the civilian world is tough and getting tougher. If your current MOS doesn't have transferable skills, and many don't, then reenlist to one that does so you don't find yourself up a creek without a paddle.

437

Do not panic! Have a plan and work it. Join a veteran service organization so you can still have comraderie. Transition is lonely!

438

Go to your end of service awards ceremony- I was bitter at the time of mine and didn't go, so I did not get a retirement award. Though it would not have helped with the bitterness, at they would have made sure I got my award.

439

Take some time after retirement to decompress and assimilate into the civilian environment. Do this before you make a job decision.

440

When you pick your retirement home make sure there are jobs in the area.

441

First complete your 20 to retire and and education at least a bachelor if possible a masters. Seek transition assistance. There are groups and va support to assist with the transition into civilian life. 9/11 changed a lot for the support of veterans. Utilize those resources that are available.

442

Complete all of your active duty physicals before you transition and have to go to the VA.

443

Prepare as early as possible. If you can, have someone in the area of the country you intend to move to advise you on getting settled (jobs, schools etc.). Be patient, you will be competing with the civilian work force in your relocation area. Everyone is not military friendly.

444

TRICARE! Then get a job with benefits, or just dump your family. Your spouse is a good source of medical benefits, providing their employer has such. A coworker of mine also joined a reserve component drilling unit. After 10 years, one now has TWO retirements. No one really cares about what your rank was. You are now just a BAP, in a different environment. Allow your supervisor and coworkers to "discover" your talents you developed in the military. Notice the "old timers" and solicit their "stories". There is a wealth of knowledge there.

445

Dedicate time, hopefully with your command's approval, towards the transition. Be open and methodical in the process when deciding upon a new career, pursuing education, or opening your own business.

446

Believe and understand that you do have experience you just have to sometimes help the civilian sector understand how it relates. examples: If you were a squad leader you had to manage more details about your Soldiers then any civilian small team leader. You know how to work with people of all backgrounds. Also, the Military provides some of the best leadership training in the world. You might think otherwise while you are in or even during Officer/NCOES school, but trust me its better then what most people do.

447

Get a masters degree. Employers don't care that you spent 8-10 years in the military.

448

Be prepared to take a job for which you may be over qualified.

449

Document injury for VA BENIFIT and complete your college degree if possible

450

Be ready to answer the question, "What do you want to do?"

451

Mentally adjust your way of thinking such that most corporate jobs no one takes responsibility for their own actions. Corporate America does not want to rock the boat and enforce any sort of discipline. Get used to working with a lot of Foreign Nationals that are well educated (Book Smart) but are not trained to think for themselves or as so called "Out of the Box". Extremely hard to get promoted or recognized for work well done. But they are quick to inform you how bad you screwed up. Also I found when trying to negotiate a salary and they find out your receiving retirement from the Military they try to short change you. If you take a Management position in the Civilian world the ONE most thing to wrap your head around is YOU are not in the Military anymore. You are not allowed to instill any type of discipline. Last but not least take the time to research the Company, see how they stand on hiring Military folks. How long they have been in business and if possible how many Layoffs that they've had in their History.

452

1) Take the advice and have a solid plan for getting out, stick to it. 2) A good job goes a long way. 3) Dont be discouraged by leadership that doesn't understand your mentality, most of us have a very different train of thought

453

1. Begin building a network of people you know and can assist you in looking for opportunities like you would an intelligence network. The nodes are just as important and linkages to potential jobs is what you are hoping for. 2. The civilian world cares about your service like they care about the weather...you were lulled into a false sense of expectations believing people "cared" they don't, get over it. Two mantras I use, " If you can't find a door to enter, breach a hole in the wall and walk through." Second, if you can't find a way, make one! I'm giving entrepreneurship a go because opportunities are few and people too scared of our background to work with us. 3. You are not your rank or position you were, let it go be willing to start over and be humble. Be the private you wish you had!

454

It is harder than you hear from your peers to find a career that directly replaces the pay and benefits you have.

455

Use all available assets to obtain civilian credentials BEFORE separation. Many (most?) civilians have no direct experience with uniformed service and seem to gloss over the skills we bring to the table. A professional credential such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PHR (Professional in Human Resources), or a commercial drivers license provides a quantifiable third-party endorsement of your skills.

456

I believe a lot of how you transition from military to civilian workforce depends on your attitude and outlook. Having a positive attitude and outlook leaves a lasting impression on prospective employers; even when things aren't going your way. I feel fortunate that I found my current career in only about 4 months after returning from my last deployment. I feel my positive attitude, confidence (but not cockiness), and my military experiences get me the position I am in now.

457

Prepare, prepare. It depends on your MOS. if you were /are a grunt then you don't have much to work with except that you are loyal, dependable and a steady worker. So basically it starts with the MOS you choose in the beginning. Now a problem you might run into is that employers may fear you have PTSD and there will be issues later, missing work from DR. appts, mood swings. So showing that you didn't serve in combat can eleve some concerns but only tell them if you need to. If you do have PTSD then first take the time to heal before taking on a full time job, maybe start slow and work your way up.

458

Start looking as soon as you make the decision to leave the military. Look at the job market and access your skill set to see what you can bring to a potential employer. There are organizations that are looking for vets and can assist you - if they are decent - They probably will be free because the employer will pay them a finder's fee. If you need to take a class to prepare for a job you want - now is the time.

459

Make sure you are prepared for a lapse in benefits, both medical and financial.

460

If you don't have a degree, use your GI Bill. Education is one of the best investments you can make in yourself, and you've already paid for it so you might as well use it. Compare unemployment rates for HS graduates vs. college graduates, it's a world of difference.

461

Plan ahead. The real world is NOTHING like the military. Get a college degree.

462

Ensure you have a plan on employment before you leave, have a job lined up already.

463

The units don't support the soldiers properly and also the transition doesn't have very good classes to get you ready... Also lost of soldiers leave the service and start having much more Mental and physical issues from the service. This HAS to be fixed.

464

Consider all of the benefits you will be giving up before you make your final decision about transitioning. Have a plan and some money to fall back on. The grass isn't always greener on this side. There is very little security/stability. Since getting out of the military I have held approximately 5 different jobs at different companies and currently looking for number 6.

465

Have an interest that is not especially linked to the military. Be sure you have some hobbies, things you like to do. Try some travel if you can afford it. It does wonders for your head. I was not regular Army but in the National Guard but I did get some time in other areas, like 8 months at school, etc. Keep busy and spend time with friends and family.

466

1) Be prepared for drastic change in work ethics, 2) Prepare financially.

467

figuring out the transferable skills and how to communicate them via statements on the resume

468

Have a plan/path and realistically evaluate what you will need to move forward with that plan. Certificates vs. degree, experience, translating soft skills acquired in the service to the ones needed to successfully navigate your path.

469

Prepare yourself ahead of time with appropriate education/certifications, volunteer time in field if possible ahead of time, network with others already in the field, begin applying 3-6 months before retirement.

470

Plan for a worst case scenario. For me, that was saving to survive for six months of unemployment. I'm not there yet, but prior my planning has reduced the financial impact of separation substantially.

471

Start early. You need to learn a whole new language to relate to the civilian workforce.

472

80% of available jobs are not advertised, they are obtained by word of mouth.

473

1. It is not as easy as it seems. 2. There are not employers fighting over veteran hires, unless you have an in-demand technical skill.

474

Traditional Transition Assistance Programs are archaic at best. Need a new model. The basic job search skills and writing resumes does not need to be a weeklong powerpoint marathon. These skills can be honed on the web, in LinkedIn, at local workshops.

475

I absolutely could not agree more in regards to the wisdom of considering a serious transition plan, I'll probably integrate a form of plans, B, C and however many ... just in case situations ... for the unique personal circumstances to all of us, many situations indeed that our previous background make us "ideal hires" but to some other "recruiters-human resources personnel" we translate to "not so ideal hires" . Transitional characteristics, individual MOS not so nontransferable accrued job skills, and so many other ones to even try to mention. It is a real ocean like array of possibilities out there, however it also takes, a real resilient mindset to navigate the endeavor or the job to find a solid employment nowadays in America.

476

Do your best to take a long term view of the decision. Don't decide just because you're unhappy with your current situation, and don't jump at a too-good-to-be-true offer. Do not waste your educational benefits at any for profit school that requires any kind of contract. Finally, don't burn any bridges. I know a lot of folks that got out and went back in when they saw the grass wasn't greener and that they missed the comeraderie and intrinsic satisfaction of serving.

477

Start your writing resume when you enter the military. NCOES should ask all of their rated subordinates to update their resumes annually and share it. Gain certifications for your MOS or job skills that carry over to the Civilian sector. Always think 5-10 years ahead.

478

1. Have a plan and start early. It took me 10 months to secure the position I wanted. 2. Understand that you're starting over again at the bottom, maybe a little above the bottom, but definitely not a lateral move. Most in the corporate world won't view your previous leadership experience as applicable in the civilian world. You'll have to get in the door and prove yourself.

479

GI bill and master your strengths. Use the resources. Get the mentality of entitlements out of your head and remain empowered

480

Military service is not preparatory in nature. Skill conversions are difficult and training opportunities are nearly nonexistent.

481

Talk to people in the fields in which you are interested and build a network.

482

Plan ahead, I was not retain in a QRB retention board. That board notified me one year out from my separation date. In that time I took advantage of a lot of programs, seminars and workshops to prepare myself. This benefit me and my family as I was able to secure employment prior to separation. The employment is part-time as I continue to seek full time opportunities which seem to be harder to land.

483

Don't separate. The work-a-day world is impossible, right now. Work up to a high NCO or an middle-to-high Officer rank, put up with the BS, because it's a LOT less difficult to deal with than the real-world at a lower rank. I wish every single day, now, that I had stayed in. I have a nice job as an instructor with some VERY good pay, except now I can't get any good hours. My mechanical aircraft repair skills are no longer in demand, and I have NOTHING, anymore, that I was able to pull with me from the Army. Stay in, don't separate. There is NO transition program that will truly help, especially since resume requirements change day-to-day employer-to-employer, ridiculous. Don't quit the military as long as you have a decent job and can stick with it.

484

Figure out what you want to do before you separate.

485

Start planning early. The earlier the better. You have to have an exit strategy that can be implemented quickly. That exit strategy needs to include a 3-, 6-, and 9-month transition plan as well as a 1- and 2-year transition plan, that way you cover the possibilities of involuntary separation, and retirement or career completion (whatever that is for you).

486

Jobs come from personal connections.

487

Understand that Veteran Advocates work for the agency that pays them, not the veteran. This means just because they are a veteran they might not tell you everything you need to know if it is not in their training or encouraged by their agency. It is up to the individual veteran to seek out all the relevant information he or she needs to go well prepared through the transition process.

488

To keep focused on what you want to achieve. The initial year after getting out was very difficult. I had lost something in my life that a portion of me believed was the only way to exist.

489

You need to own the process. Attend the mandatory transition classes. Use the tools provided to help you identify what you need/want to do post-military service and develop a robust action plan. Be open to discuss all opportunities. Seek mentors who have already made the transition.

490

Don't be too picky when looking for a job. You can always continue looking for the job you want once you have one to pay your bills with.

491

Plan, Prepare, Pursue

492

Start early, have a plan - with multiple options and courses of action. Do not "pigeon hole" yourself into one category. I think many veterans, including myself, have difficulty in describing what they bring to the table in linkedIn profiles, resumes and interviews. I think companies want "doers" and that is what most veterans can do well. We have to learn to sell ourselves better.

493

Don't be ashamed to subordinate yourself to take a lower position job. You have acquired the skill set to work your way up the ladder to a successful 2nd career.

494

Network Network Network!!!

495

Use all available resources to identify the civilian job that you are moving to and take advantage of the training offered by the military.

496

You need to network in order to find a job. Do not rely on sending resumes out or applying blindly for jobs.

497

The *extreme* level of psychological and many daily hours of stress that many military jobs entail will be tremendously helpful in preparing the former soldier, sailor, airman(woman), or marine to compete *successfully* in the vast majority of the civilian workforce. The often *suppressed* thought processes while in uniform can then be employed to *excel* in *your* chosen civilian field of opportunity.

498

Start early, have a plan, and work on something toward transition each and every day.

499

Planning your next career move, medical treatment facility, locations of employment and colleges. Knowing those around you to network your potential.

500

It's risky in that you may not know what you will do when you get out, but if you work hard and put in the effort, you will make it work. Nothing is owed to you--you have to earn it. But as you assimilate into a civilian job of some sort, don't forget what made you successful in the military. You can't apply it all cookie cutter, but you have to find the similarities and make the lessons fit the new situations. Also, there is a mental struggle to leave behind something toward which you were so dedicated. The underlying principle in all of it is service, so continue to serve. Serve your community, your neighbors, your country through your actions in civilian life.

501

Get as much college education as one can while in the military. Many military careers need a degree in the civilian world.

502

Make serious on your work in the military because you can use that knowledge when you get out from the service.

503

When a senior NCO has retired, even though we know what our abilities are, most recruiters you will meet are in their 20's and will stereotype you as old. Ageism is a reality.

504

Start your transition into civilian life early

505

Do research on the types of jobs that you want and review the requirements those positions typically require so that you can obtain your certifications early.

506

Have a masters degree before separating/retiring.

507

Put your past life (Marine Corps) completely behind and embrace the new life in front of you.

508

Resume writing and job application process.

509

Make sure you have a plan before you seperate.

510

Have an idea of what you want to do and do it until its done.

511

Don't get out until you've set a plan in motion and have a follow-on role lined up.

512

Make sure youre dd214 is squared away and all medical records are validaded.

513

You have 10 years from your ETS date to use your GI Bill benefits.

514

if you decide to pursue an additional career, start prepping yourself to link up with personnel within your field of interest to gather knowledge

515

Don't let your chain of command take advance of you or force you to cancel appointments

516

Make sure you skills are transferable, and there are not civilian requirements to do the same job. Transferring from medical services for example, you need to ensure you can get licensed in the state you are going to. Understand what the going wage for your skills are. Budget for a reduced pay in some cases

517

Be very proactive! You must make the time, regardless of rank, to start the transition process 12-18 months out form PCS/retirement. Too many wait, or take for granite, that someone is looking out for them and will help land them a job. Start building your time-lined master resume NOW (evals, awards, certificates, transcripts, duty descriptions, #s of those supervised and/or $$ amounts managed, leadership traits, projects, etc.) Resume conversion from military jargon to civilian translation. Build accounts NOW (indeed, monster, govt agencies, etc.) and start collecting vacancy announcements (specifically position descriptions) that are similar to what you want to do. Set aside so many hours a day/week to scan job postings in locations you want to reside in. Have back-up locations.

518

Become a government (DOD) Contractor! Make 3x $$$ doing similar work, indirectly for military but still in support of overall mission.

519

Set realistic expectations for potential employment offers. Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate! Many times civilian employers lack the understanding of anything military, so ensure your resume has quantifiable data to display achievements.

520

Take care of you. This is not a selfish statement regardless of how it sounds. There will be times where the unit will expect you to put ACAP/outprocessing aside and help them try to accomplish a unit specific mission such as, supplementing a training exercise, guard duty, or, something they might feel takes more precedence than what you have going on. Don't do it. Use your chain of command to prevent incidents such as these from happening. If you're a leader, provide that service member with the top cover they need. If you're a service member and getting push back from your chain, take your complaint to IG. Focus on your future away from the military and if you have family, ensure all their needs are met first. The unit will be fine without you there, trust me. Have a plan months prior to outprocessing. Ensure you give yourself options of what you'll be doing after the military such as, school, work, or starting a business. Build networks, job search, research schools, research the area you will be living in. If you're starting a new job, is there a resource you can provide that the area might benefit from? Understand that the plan will change, but stay flexible and stay focused.

521

Take the time to prepare for separation . The military gives you the time but it is you that needs to aggressively prepare yourself

522

Do not stay in the same city where you were posted. Go home.

523

Civilian compensation does not include allowances for housing and food. Use your base pay as the baseline. Expect and plan for lower is transitioning around winter holidays. Expect less help from recruiters if transitioning from overseas.

524

All Veterans have valuable skills and incredible discipline. The problem is that many civilian employers don't know how to translate it to the civilian jobs. Every veteran must be prepared to describe succinctly how their own personal military experience and skills position them as an IDEAL candidate for the civilian job they want regardless of whether it is truck driver or CEO.

525

Be persistent and be prepared to hear no a lot. Know that civilian corporations may talk about hiring Veterans. But if you don't meet their qualifications, you won't receive the job offer.

526

Before transitioning, consider pros and cons in the transition. Also focus on education after the military and while serving.

527

Get/Have a college degree with a technical background in math or computer science. Chemistry can't hurt.

528

Networking is the key to successful transitions

529

Network early while you're still in the service. Establish a LinkedIn profile and have all military training and experience listed in civilian language. Take advantage of ALL "optional" transition classes/courses: don't just attend the mandatory training. Have your resume reviewed by civilians in corporations BEFORE sending it to a potential employer.

530

Take as many classes offered in regards to transitioning from the military prior to getting out. Ask other Veterans that have transitioned what it was like and if they could do something different what would that have been.

531

Please, Please! Prepare yourself to act as if you just arrived to "Reception" in order to begin "Week Zero" all over again. Except with ... Civilians. Recognize, quickly that the level of follow-through, consequence, and standards are NOT the same. Prepare to spend just as much time "getting used" to outside the wire as you did getting used to "inside the wire." And then ... give yourself a break. You do not have to be "THE NCO/Commander" of the situation ... Assessing and evaluating the situation for possible mitigation of risks, does not work out here. It is totally OK to not have it all together "yesterday."

532

gi bill information and workforce

533

YOU SHOULD BE GLAD AND THANKFUL THAT YOUR SERVICE IS COMPLETED. I ALSO THINK YOU SHOULD PURSUE ALL OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO YOU, CONGRATULATION.

534

Start at a minimum of two years out- putting in resumes, attending job fairs, and completing any and every course the military offers,

535

Tailor resume to position before submitting.

536

Learn how to interview and create a resume that translate military skills into a civilian career.

537

Think about it first

538

Know yourself. Striving for a goal that fits you as a person is what makes all suc worth it. So put the effort into fighting for what you want and what fits who you are.

539

Emphize leadership skills. There are attitudes in the civilian sector who are " hygiene freaks". They are only interested in the basic survival needs of food, homes, salary and self adulation. They avoid responsibility and don't want to jepordize their position. This leaves a void of leaders and piles on the " I don't want to be the decision makers". Be pro-active and lead.

540

Find a mentor and network, network, network!!