Moving from Military to Civilian Employment

Leaving the military and making the transition to civilian life and employment is a daunting task. The current state of the economy makes it all the more intimidating. I recently left active-duty after 13 years and transitioned to civilian employment and life as a military Reservist. If you are making this change in your life, there are some things you can do to make the adjustment easier on yourself.

Attend a Transition Assistance Class

When you leave active-duty, your service offers a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) class, or some equivalent of this. This course will provide you with many valuable skills and information on seeking civilian employment. You'll learn how to create a resume, how to search for jobs and get interviews, how to actually get through the interview, and how to land a job. It's usually a five-day course, but may vary depending upon which branch of the military you are in. You can take this class up to six months before you are discharged, so make sure you sign up as soon as you can and get a jump-start on your new career!

Use Your Troop Assistance Facility

Called the "Airman & Family Readiness Center" by the Air Force, the "Family Support Center" by the Navy and Marine Corps, and the "Community and Family Support Center" by the Army, this facility has many resources for all military members and dependents. This includes resume assistance, help with job searches and other valuable services. Check out your installation's office for a full list of resources to help you as you start your civilian life.

Attend a Job Fair

Most installations host job fairs for transitioning personnel. These are usually held every few months, but if you missed yours or won't be able to attend one before you separate from the military, search your local newspaper for listings of civilian job fairs in your area. Many cities hold these monthly to help local job seekers to find employment. This is a great place to find a job and network with others in your chosen civilian career field.

Network With Others

Don't discount networking with military members. Military members in your unit may have civilian spouses in your chosen career field that can help you with job leads or even provide a reference for you. Get the word out to other troops that you are leaving the service and are looking for a job. This can provide you valuable job leads and other information. Even though you are leaving the military service, you don't have to lose your military friends and connections.

Consider a Secondary Career in the Guard or Reserve

When you leave active service, you may find yourself in the position of missing the military but not wanting to serve full-time. Consider a side career in the Guard or Reserve. Each branch of the military has a Reserve Component, to include the Coast Guard. In addition, the Army National Guard and Air National Guard offer many benefits that the Reserves can't provide. Some of the benefits you'll enjoy are dental and health insurance through the Tricare Reserve Select program, free college tuition in most states through Army or Air National Guard service, life insurance, military commissary and base/post exchange benefits, and almost all of the benefits that you enjoyed on active duty. Speak to a local recruiter to find out your options.

Going from active duty to civilian life can be scary, but if you plan ahead, the transition can be a smooth one for both you and your family!

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