Looking to market yourself in a new career field? Working to translate your military skills into common language? Expanding your network?
MOAA can be your source for guidance as we all look to new beginnings in 2021. Whether you’re transitioning from the military or from career to career, in times of change, there is no incentive so great, and no medicine so powerful, as hope for a better tomorrow.
So, be thorough and be passionate as you highlight what you could (and intend to) bring to any new position. Embrace the change as you continually exude energy and experience in your approach and preparation to your next best life.
A recent MOAA webinar, The Art of the Possible, outlined some ways to turn this positive approach into results – whether it’s finding a new position or succeeding in one you’ve secured. Premium and Life members can access the webinar at this link, and can review other transition, finance, and benefits webinars in MOAA’s Webinar Archive.
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As you plan your career, reflect on the art of the possible and consider this three-prong approach to your skills, your network, and your transition tools.
1. Speak the Language
Translate military verbiage into words any civilian can understand:
| Use this phrase ... | Instead of ... |
|---|---|
| Director or Senior Manager | Commander |
| Deputy Director | Executive Officer |
| Human Resources | Military Personnel Office |
| Personnel Manager | First Sergeant |
| Security Force | Infantry |
| Personnel | Servicemembers |
| Team Leader | Platoon Leader |
| Extensive Experience | 20 Years Military Service |
2. Know Your Value
Assess and focus on your transferrable skills. Your military experience has provided an impressive toolkit, not limited to skills in:
- Communication
- Conflict Resolution
- Critical and Creative Thought
- Decisive Action
- Detail-Oriented Approach
- Leadership
- Negotiation
- Organization
- Problem Solving
- Project Management
- Prioritizing Tasks
- Relationship Building
- Self-Starter
- Strategic Planning
- Teamwork
- Technical Proficiency
3. Know Your Resources
Use these tools to get started:
- Informational Interviews (Premium and Life Members can access this webinar)
- Interview Preparation
- LinkedIn Profile (Learn more about MOAA on LinkedIn)
- MOAA’s Job Board
- Networking (Get some tips from MOAA)
- Targeted Job Résumé (Learn more about MOAA’s résumé services)
Need more? Visit MOAA’s Transition and Career center at MOAA.org/Career for the latest transition news, upcoming events and webinars, member-exclusive publications, and more.
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