Making the shift from a military career to a civilian one is a big deal, right? The transition is a significant and often challenging journey. It goes beyond simply changing jobs; it involves adapting to a new environment, culture, and set of expectations. One of the key factors that can greatly facilitate this transition is investing in furthering your education and training. In this article, we will explore the importance of ongoing education and training to enhance skills and qualifications for civilian careers after serving in the military.
Transferable Skills
Military service equips individuals with a diverse set of skills that are highly transferable to the civilian workforce. These include leadership, discipline, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, the whole package. But here's the thing: not everyone speaks military language. Going for more education helps you figure out how to talk about these skills in a way that clicks with civilian employers.
We recently completed a deep dive into translating your skills from military to civilian, if you haven’t already check it out for important tips and tricks to ensure that you are successful!
Learning the Ropes of Your New Field
While the military provides a solid foundation of skills, certain civilian careers may demand specific industry knowledge that military training doesn't cover. Pursuing education and training in a relevant field ensures you know the ins and outs of your chosen industry to stay competitive in the job market. This might involve obtaining certifications, attending workshops, or pursuing a formal degree, depending on the industry and career goals.
Building Your Network
Education and training programs also provide you with valuable networking opportunities. Allowing you to build connections with professionals in the civilian sector which can open doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of industry norms.
Networking is a big deal in the civilian world, check out our blog for more information.
Powering Up Your Resume
Civilian employers may not always fully comprehend the nature of military experience. Supplementing a military background with relevant education and training helps create a well-rounded resume that clearly communicates that you are the whole package. Employers often look for a combination of education, experience, and skills, and further education acts as a bridge between military service and civilian career requirements.
Your resume is the first impression an employer has of you, if you want to land your dream job, you’ll need to ensure that it fully relays all of your qualifications. Check out our detailed blog to help you ensure you succeed.
Staying Current in the Job Game
The civilian job market is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and industry trends. You may find that certain skills learned in the military may become outdated or need augmentation to align with the demands of contemporary civilian jobs. Continuous education ensures that you stay abreast of industry changes, enhancing their employability in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Getting the Support You Need
Many educational institutions and training programs offer support services tailored to your needs. This includes career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance, don’t forget you have access to your GI Bill as well if you opted in. Taking advantage of these services can significantly ease the transition process and provide you with the guidance needed to navigate the civilian job market successfully.
If you haven't done so yet, take a look at our blog about making the most of available resources. Utilizing Resources for a Smooth Military-to-Civilian Transition (thekyogroup.com)
Obtaining more education and training isn't just a smart move; it's your secret weapon for transitioning smoothly from the military to civilian life. It's about boosting your skills, making connections, and showing employers you're the whole package. Your next journey awaits, and armed with a bit of additional education, you'll be more than prepared to excel.