Leaving the military

You are about to transition into the civilian work force and it is time to leave the Armed Forces. For some people this will be a welcomed change and a positive adventure while for others it will be a time of stress, anxiety, and frustration. Let’s face it, individuals’ mid-career transitions usually fall into one of two categories; it is either a call and a pull towards a new career, or a cry and a push out of the military and on to something else. Facing the reality of your military-to-civilian transition and planning for it well is an important first step toward success. The military is well respected at this time in history and that is one thing on your side as a military transitioner. Civilian employers are impressed with the discipline, productivity, and work ethic of those who have spent many years or an entire career in the military.

In order to give yourself better control over your transition, you will need to take advantage of all the services your local transition office has to offer. Maybe you are still in the decision making stage as you explore different careers and all your options. If you are reading this site you may have already made the decision to teach as a second career or at least are considering it. You may even have a pretty good idea of what kinds of jobs are out there and where those jobs are. Perhaps you have written your resume and other job search tools such as cover letters and an oral sales pitch for yourself. Or maybe you have done nothing about your transition as you read this.

Finding a second career, the right career, is a lengthy process. You must take time to get to know yourself well and also get to know and understand the job market. If you have started this process early, at least one year ahead of your separation date, then you are ahead of the game. If you are starting after leaving the military, you will have to do what almost all job coaches and career counselors will tell you: you have to make finding a job your full-time job.

LEAVING THE MILITARY will:

• Assist you with this transition process;
• Give you insight into formulating a specific plan that can culminate in a successful transition to your second career.
• Provide you with specific steps for developing your plan.

It is recommended that you follow the steps that will be provided in order. Doing these exercises will help you formulate the strategic plan necessary for a successful change of careers. Perhaps as you do this you will find that teaching is what you want and choose to do.