No Job? So What. Go Back to School

I joined in '99 and got out in '05. In those six years the Internet bubble burst and the housing market was inflated and the economy was about to enter into one of the worst recessions in U.S. history.

So what. All trasitioning veterans need to do is go back to school. If it is a trade school or a university, the time spent in school will help in adjustment to civilan life (read normal). Employers want knowledgable/constantly improving workers. Also, most schools have a career services office that will help in writing a resume that is current with the job you are seeking.

Don't feel bad when most of what you did in the military is not accepted for credit at school or work experience. Make sure the resume does not have any military words or "feeling." Most employers just look at the time in service and say, " Thanks for your service. What else have you done since then."

The school will also provide opportunities for networking through job fairs, and other events. Don't waste time at unaccredited schools. Don't be too dependent on the info from the transition programs in the military or veteran services. It is a nice gesture on the militarys' part, but the people running it are underinformed and not in contact with businesses on a day-to-day basis.

As for interviews, always wear a suit, no matter what. Make sure it fits well and you feel comfortable. If you are going to be a mechanic, you can put on the coveralls when you get hired. Shine your shoes. Look good, feel good. Answer all questions in the interview honestly, even the illegal ones. Think if a company is asking illegal questions, do you really want to be working for them? Research your company before accepting the job.

(Submitted by Ken Perez)

Comments

[Been There]

While I know that many people leaving active duty are young and single, when I left I was married with two small children. I couldn't say "So what" and go back to school. I had to find a job to feed my family.