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

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.

4

Ensuring you get your medical records evaluated before you separate.

5

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.

6

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

7

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

8

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.

9

Plan as far ahead as possible.

10

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

11

Education!

12

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

13

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.

14

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!

15

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.

16

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.

17

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.

18

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.

19

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.

20

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

21

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.

22

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

23

Use the services offered at the Transition Center

24

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

25

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.

26

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.

27

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.

28

Not everyone understands what or why you seems so different

29

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.

30

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

31

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.

32

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

33

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

34

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

35

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.

36

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.

37

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

38

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.

39

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

40

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.

41

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

42

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.

43

Never give up

44

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.

45

start transitioning process at least 24 months out.

46

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

47

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.

48

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).

49

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

50

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.

51

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.

52

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

53

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

54

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

55

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.

56

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.

57

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

58

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

59

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.

60

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

61

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

62

Network

63

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.

64

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

65

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

66

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

67

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...

68

Stay active be flexible. 👍

69

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

70

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

71

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.

72

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.

73

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

74

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

75

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.

76

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.

77

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."

78

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

79

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.

80

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.

81

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.

82

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.

83

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.

84

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.

85

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

86

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.

87

Most civilian employers will not understand military service.

88

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.

89

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.

90

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.

91

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.

92

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

93

TAPS Class

94

plan ahead begin networking early to ensure a smooth transition

95

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.

96

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

97

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.

98

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.

99

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.

100

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

101

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.

102

Networking is vitally important to your transition.

103

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.

104

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.

105

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.

106

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.

107

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..

108

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.

109

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

110

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.

111

Don't become isolated.

112

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

113

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.

114

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.

115

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

116

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.

117

Use your education benefits.

118

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..

119

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.

120

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.

121

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

122

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.

123

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.

124

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.

125

You should be eligible for unemployment insurance upon separation.

126

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.

127

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.

128

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

129

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

130

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.

131

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.

132

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.

133

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.

134

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

135

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.

136

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.

137

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)

138

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.

139

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.

140

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!

141

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.)

142

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.

143

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

144

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

145

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.

146

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.

147

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

148

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.

149

Make a plan and stick to it.

150

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.

151

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.

152

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.

153

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.

154

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.

155

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.

156

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

157

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.

158

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

159

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

160

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.

161

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.

162

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

163

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.

164

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

165

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

166

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.

167

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.

168

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

169

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.

170

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

171

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.

172

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.

173

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.

174

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.

175

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

176

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.

177

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

178

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

179

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.

180

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.

181

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

182

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.

183

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.

184

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

185

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.

186

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.

187

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.

188

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

189

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.

190

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.

191

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.

192

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.

193

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

194

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

195

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

196

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.

197

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.

198

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

199

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.

200

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.

201

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.

202

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.

203

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.

204

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.

205

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.

206

Employment expectations were too high after getting out.

207

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.

208

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.

209

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.

210

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).

211

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

212

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.

213

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.

214

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

215

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

216

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.

217

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

218

Utilize your educational benefits and file a disability claim.

219

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.

220

remember your discipline and be the best at whatever you do

221

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.

222

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.

223

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

224

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

225

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.

226

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.

227

Line up work prior to ets

228

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.

229

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.

230

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

231

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.

232

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.

233

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.

234

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.

235

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.

236

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.

237

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.

238

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.

239

Plan ahead as much as possible.

240

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

241

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

242

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.

243

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.

244

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.

245

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.

246

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

247

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.

248

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

249

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

250

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.

251

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

252

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

253

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.

254

Learn to talk, dress and act like a civilian.

255

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

256

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.

257

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

258

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.

259

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

260

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

261

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.

262

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

263

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.

264

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.

265

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

266

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.

267

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

268

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

269

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.

270

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.

271

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.

272

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

273

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.

274

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

275

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.

276

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.

277

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.

278

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

279

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

280

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.

281

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Plan, Prepare, Pursue

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Network Network Network!!!

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

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

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

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

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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.

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Start your transition into civilian life early

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

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Make sure you have a plan before you seperate.

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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

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

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Networking is the key to successful transitions

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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.

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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."

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gi bill information and workforce

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

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

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

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Think about it first

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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.