Check out our top tip 10’s on a successful military transition.
1. Taking ownership
Nobody else is going to do the hard work for you. Yes, sometimes luck can come into it - but taking ownership of your own resettlement and transition, preparing as much as you can, and putting in the graft, will be worth it in the end.
2. Planning; Target your job search
As our Managing Director, Andrew Jackson, advises: “Target your job search as accurately and with the same mission focus as any military operation. I had no idea what I wanted or could do when I left. I would now work on the assumption that I won’t get a job I haven’t got the skills and experience for, so start by thinking through the skills and experience you’ve acquired during your military service - and target companies and jobs relentlessly who need them. One thing’s for sure; when employers define their requirements very precisely in a job description, your CV has to align to it just as precisely. Spray and pray simply doesn’t work.” Read more advice here.
3.Translation of acquired military skills (hard & soft)
Although you have lots to offer in the way of skills and experience, it can be challenging for employers - and yourself - to grasp the true value of your military experiences and skills, and understand how they will apply to commercial business. So, to really unlock opportunities, it is important you are able to understand your skills, how they can translate into ‘civvy speak’ and show how you can add value to an employee. Read our top tips guide here - and don’t just trot out the ‘standard’ or template list; make them relevant to you and help you stand out from the crowd
4. Creating a stand-out CV
Crafting a good CV is the basis to any successful job application. Though your CV isn’t the reason you’ll get the job, but it can certainly stop you from getting an interview. So don’t fall at the first hurdle! Read our five golden rules of CV writing here.
5. Research, including culture fit
When preparing for an interview, it is crucial you do your research, make sure you understand the breadth of what the company does, their cultural fit, and what the job you are being interviewed for requires from you. You must be fully prepared to answer any questions about the company and the job role. Nobody is expecting you to be an expert, but you must show the employer you have done your research. Get more tips here.
6. Interview techniques and practice
If you've reached the interview stage, you should be brimming with confidence in your knowledge, skills, and experience that you can bring to the table for commercial businesses. But the pivotal first step, really is preparation - and practice. Read our five tips for nailing your job interview. You can also practise with our mock interviews.
7. Build your personal brand on social media
How we present ourselves online is extremely important both personally and professionally. Your social profiles, especially Linkedin, can be used to highlight your skills and experience to prospective employers, enabling you to showcase why they should hire you. It is also a great way to network and connect with employers. We have some great tips here - and a specialist article on building your LinkedIn profile.
8. Networking
When you are in the Armed Forces ,you don’t really have to think about networking – thanks to the nature of the job. We haven’t met a single ex-military person who isn’t prepared to help others; a huge network for you to access. So, forging new connections outside of the military can feel forced, and, at times awkward. However, the good news is that it gets easier and the old adage ‘practice makes perfect’ really is true when it comes to networking! Click here for more top tips.
9. Practising skills and psychometric tests
Many employers use psychometric tests as part of the recruitment process so it is important to practise.The tests generally measure your; ability; aptitude and personality. You can use our personality assessment tool here and practise further tests here.
10. Manage expectations and salary negotiation
It’s important to manage your expectations when it comes to your first job post military. You may not walk into your first job with the role or salary you want - but equally don’t undersell yourself. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, especially when it comes to salary. Look at our salary negotiation tips here.
Photo: UK MOD © Crown copyright 2023