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<span id="overview"></span>
<span id="overview"></span>
== Overview ==
== Overview ==
Transitioning out of the military involves understanding retirement processes and adapting to civilian employment. This guide simplifies these steps with structured resources and advice.
Transitioning out of the military involves understanding retirement processes and adapting to civilian employment. This guide simplifies these steps with structured resources and advice.


<span id="worthy-quotes"></span>
<span id="worthy-quotes"></span>
=== Worthy Quotes: ===
=== Worthy Quotes: ===
<blockquote>Don’t leave benefits you’ve earned on the table due to pride or neglect.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Don’t leave benefits you’ve earned on the table due to pride or neglect.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Also remember your salary does not correlate with your worth. Especially if you’ve been in for a long time, your first job out may be more junior than your ego thinks is right, and your salary lower. But I got some excellent career advice in my early 20s when agonizing over a decision. A mentor said — this is not for the rest of your life. And yeah, of course no kidding. But you lose that perspective when the emotions are running high and you get insecure about things and you just want the security of the job offer.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Also remember your salary does not correlate with your worth. Especially if you’ve been in for a long time, your first job out may be more junior than your ego thinks is right, and your salary lower. But I got some excellent career advice in my early 20s when agonizing over a decision. A mentor said — this is not for the rest of your life. And yeah, of course no kidding. But you lose that perspective when the emotions are running high and you get insecure about things and you just want the security of the job offer.</blockquote>
Line 19: Line 17:
<span id="military-transition-assistance"></span>
<span id="military-transition-assistance"></span>
=== Military Transition Assistance ===
=== Military Transition Assistance ===
 
* '''Military Side''': Numerous programs help with retirement or ETS (Expiration Term of Service) processes.  
'' '''Military Side''': Numerous programs help with retirement or ETS (Expiration Term of Service) processes.  
* '''Civilian Side''': Insights from professionals outside the military are crucial, especially if entering an unrelated field.
'' '''Civilian Side''': Insights from professionals outside the military are crucial, especially if entering an unrelated field.


<span id="transition-assistance-program-tap"></span>
<span id="transition-assistance-program-tap"></span>
=== Transition Assistance Program (TAP) ===
=== Transition Assistance Program (TAP) ===
 
* Attend the “retiree” version of TAP if possible, focusing more on retiree benefits and less on the GI Bill.
'' Attend the “retiree” version of TAP if possible, focusing more on retiree benefits and less on the GI Bill.  
* “First thing is to take it seriously. Show up, pay attention, take notes. Interview prep is a skill. You are competing for a job.” — Engage fully in TAP and prepare thoroughly for what’s ahead.
'' “First thing is to take it seriously. Show up, pay attention, take notes. Interview prep is a skill. You are competing for a job.” — Engage fully in TAP and prepare thoroughly for what’s ahead.


<span id="professional-guidance"></span>
<span id="professional-guidance"></span>
Line 34: Line 30:
<span id="classes-and-seminars"></span>
<span id="classes-and-seminars"></span>
=== Classes and Seminars ===
=== Classes and Seminars ===
 
* '''MilBridge Consulting''': Noel McCall (704-904-4835, [email protected]) – Helps with resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and understanding the civilian recruitment process.
'''MilBridge Consulting''' - '''Contact''': Noel McCall (704-904-4835, [email protected]) - Noel, a former executive recruiter, assists with resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and understanding the civilian recruitment process.
* '''JANUS 101/Donovan Bank Foundation''': Paul ([email protected]), Drew ([email protected]) – Offers seminars for retiring ARSOF members on transitioning, life insurance choices, and more.
 
* '''The Honor Foundation''': [http://honor.org|Honor Foundation] – Specialized programs for transitioning members.
'''JANUS 101/Donovan Bank Foundation''' - '''Contacts''': Paul ([email protected]), Drew ([email protected]) - Offers seminars for retiring ARSOF members on transitioning, life insurance choices, and more.
 
'''The Honor Foundation''' - [http://honor.org|Honor Foundation]


<span id="resume-writing"></span>
<span id="resume-writing"></span>
== Resume Writing ==
== Resume Writing ==
Creating an effective resume is crucial for making a strong impression on potential employers. Here are strategies tailored to different types of job applications:


<span id="applying-with-recommendations"></span>
<span id="applying-with-recommendations"></span>
=== Applying with Recommendations ===
=== Applying with Recommendations ===
 
* '''Defense Related''': Leverage military connections. Reach out to former colleagues in defense industries for referrals.
Using recommendations can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed. Here’s how to approach this, divided by defense and non-defense sectors:
* '''Non-Defense Related''': Expand your network and use professional networking sites to connect with industry leaders.
 
'''Defense Related''' - '''Leverage Military Connections''': Utilize your military network for referrals. People who have transitioned from military to defense contractors can provide introductions that highlight your relevant military experience effectively. - “Reach out to former colleagues who are now in defense industries. Their endorsement can speak volumes about your operational and project management skills.”
 
'''Non-Defense Related''' - '''Expand Your Network''': Attend industry networking events and participate in relevant forums online. Connections outside the military can introduce you to opportunities that you might not have considered. - “Use professional networking sites to connect with industry leaders. A recommendation from someone within the company can greatly enhance your resume’s credibility.”


<span id="cold-applications"></span>
<span id="cold-applications"></span>
=== Cold Applications ===
=== Cold Applications ===
 
* '''Defense Related''': Tailor your resume using industry-specific terminology, emphasizing skills like security clearances and leadership experience.
When you don’t have a direct referral, your approach needs to be more strategic to get through the automated and human screening processes:
* '''Non-Defense Related''': Highlight transferable skills and how military experience can translate to civilian success.
 
'''Defense Related''' - '''Tailor Your Resume''': Customize your resume to reflect the defense industry’s terminology and the specific skills listed in the job description. - “Incorporate industry-specific keywords and emphasize security clearances, technical skills, and leadership experience that are highly valued in defense roles.”
 
'''Non-Defense Related''' - '''Highlight Transferable Skills''': Focus on how your military skills can benefit civilian roles. Leadership, management, discipline, and operational planning are all attractive to non-defense employers. - “Adapt your military accomplishments to showcase how they translate into corporate success—highlight soft skills like team leadership and project management.”
 
Each section aims to guide you in optimizing your resume for the best results, whether you’re leveraging your network for recommendations or applying directly to job listings in defense or non-defense sectors.


<span id="networking-and-skill-development"></span>
<span id="networking-and-skill-development"></span>
== Networking and Skill Development ==
== Networking and Skill Development ==
 
* Utilize non-military experts for new perspectives and strategies.
'' '''Utilize Non-Military Experts''': Gain new perspectives and strategies from civilian professionals.
* "Prepare answers to likely questions, rehearse. Many non-defense companies may feel intimidated. Leave your jargon, ego, profanity, and rank behind."
'' “Prepare answers to likely questions, rehearse. Many non-defense companies may feel intimidated. Leave your jargon, ego, profanity, and rank behind.” — Adapt communication to make your military experience accessible in the civilian job market.
* Mention projects you’ve started, even if not completed, to own your experience.
'' “You don’t have to be an expert to get the job, just show that you have domain knowledge. They’re hiring you because you can read the book, not necessarily write the book. Mention projects you’ve started, even if not completed; own your experience.”


<span id="entrepreneurship-and-creative-ventures"></span>
<span id="entrepreneurship-and-creative-ventures"></span>
== Entrepreneurship and Creative Ventures ==
== Entrepreneurship and Creative Ventures ==
 
* Consider starting your own business, engaging in side projects, or exploring creative ventures like online stores.
'''Starting Your Own Business''' - Engage in projects like retrofitting a camper van or starting an online store to develop new skills and potentially generate income.


<span id="area-specific-tips"></span>
<span id="area-specific-tips"></span>
== Area Specific Tips ==
== Area Specific Tips ==
 
* Look for local veteran resources and groups for tailored advice.
'' '''Regional Resources''': Seek out local veteran groups and employment resources specific to your area to get tailored advice and support.


<span id="medboarding"></span>
<span id="medboarding"></span>
== MedBoarding ==
== MedBoarding ==
 
* '''Understanding Medboarding''': Make sure to get assessed for potential disabilities and understand the benefits you’ve earned.  
'' '''Understanding Medboarding''': Navigating the medical boarding process can be complex. It’s important to get assessed for potential disabilities and understand the benefits you’ve earned.
* "Most counties have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who can help navigate the VA and state benefits. If you can’t find them on your county or state veterans affairs page, try your local American Legion or VFW post."
'' “Most counties have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who can help navigate the VA and state benefits. If you can’t find them on your county or state veterans affairs page, try your local American Legion or VFW post.” — Utilize VSOs to ensure you don’t miss out on benefits due to pride or neglect.


<span id="state-considerations-for-disabled-veteran"></span>
<span id="state-considerations-for-disabled-veteran"></span>
=== State Considerations for Disabled Veteran ===
=== State Considerations for Disabled Veterans ===
 
* '''Texas''': Generous property tax exemptions, no state income tax.
States across the U.S. offer a variety of benefits for disabled veterans, which can include property tax exemptions, income tax waivers, educational benefits, and specialized support services:
* '''Illinois''': Offers property tax exemptions and income tax waivers for military retirement pay.
 
* '''Florida''': Provides property tax benefits and state education benefits.
= '''Texas''' is known for its generous property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, with those having a VA disability rating from 10% to 100% eligible for varying levels of property tax reductions. Texas also does not collect state income tax, which benefits all residents, including veterans =
* '''New Hampshire''': Offers tax exemptions for veterans with adapted homes.
= '''Illinois''' offers a range of tax exemptions and educational benefits. Disabled veterans with a 30% to 100% VA disability rating can receive property tax exemptions ranging from $2,500 to a full exemption on their primary residence. Illinois also exempts military retirement pay and SBP payments from state income tax =
* '''Virginia''': Exempts up to $15,000 of military pay from state income tax.
= '''Florida''' provides property tax benefits where veterans with a disability rating of 10% or greater are entitled to a $5,000 deduction on the assessment of their homes for tax purposes. Those with a 100% P&T rating are exempt from paying any property taxes on their primary residences. =
= '''New Hampshire''' offers full property tax exemptions to veterans with a 100% P&T disability rating who own a specially adapted home acquired with VA assistance. It also provides free state park access to veterans with any disability rating and tuition waivers for dependents of 100% disabled veterans =
= '''Virginia''' honors its 100% disabled veterans with several benefits, including up to $15,000 of military basic pay exempt from state income tax =


<span id="additional-resources"></span>
<span id="additional-resources"></span>
Line 105: Line 79:
<span id="business-resources"></span>
<span id="business-resources"></span>
=== Business Resources ===
=== Business Resources ===
 
* [[business|Business Chat Archive]]
'' [[business|Business Chat Archive]]


<span id="education-and-internships"></span>
<span id="education-and-internships"></span>
=== Education and Internships ===
=== Education and Internships ===
==== Service Member ====
* Explore opportunities for further education and internships to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers. "You can spend your last six months doing a skill bridge with industry. "
* The '''DOD SkillBridge Program''' offers valuable civilian work experience for service members during their final 180 days of service. However, participation is subject to approval by the service member's commander, typically an O6 memo for some branches like the Air Force, while others, like the Army, have their approval processes. Eligibility generally requires service members to serve at least 180 continuous days on active duty. Commanders may approve or disapprove participation based on unit mission requirements.
* '''Approval Process''': Commanders must authorize participation, considering unit needs. Participants should complete all Transition Assistance Program (TAP) requirements before starting SkillBridge. Each branch may impose additional requirements.
Thought I'd chime in...
I'm three months into a six-month Skillbridge with a company not on the approved Skillbridge list. There are ways to legitimately do that with additional paperwork.
Something to be aware of is the Skillbridge process is changing.
Also worth noting is the following.
https://www.socom.mil/care-coalition/Pages/Career-Transition.aspx
Buried in, there is a SOCOM "Skillbridge"-like program.
Within that are companies (five?) certified Military Mentorship Partners who act as headhunters and look to place you in the right environment/organizations for your skill sets/experiences.
I hadn't even heard of the SOCOM program, and I've already gone through SFLTAP, my Unit's equivalent, the Wounded Warrior Foundation, and the GBF.
Just goes to show you there are probably opportunities out there where just unaware of
* For more detailed guidelines, see the [https://skillbridge.osd.mil/faq.htm SkillBridge FAQ page]


'' Explore opportunities for further education and internships to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers.
==== Employer ====


Businesses participating in the DOD SkillBridge Program gain access to skilled, highly motivated service members transitioning out of the military. Through this initiative, employers can create tailored training programs that meet their specific workforce needs while benefiting from the Department of Defense covering service members' salaries and benefits during their final 180 days of service. This allows companies to integrate experienced veterans into their workforce at no additional cost. Employers can host training on base or at their facilities, and virtual or remote learning options are available, making it accessible regardless of location. To ensure success, companies should provide clear job training and development programs, aligning with industry demands and offering a high probability of employment for service members upon completion.
* For more information and participation, visit the [SkillBridge for Industry page](https://skillbridge.osd.mil/industry-employers.htm).
<span id="practical-tips"></span>
<span id="practical-tips"></span>
=== Practical Tips ===
* To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended that service members finalize out-processing, terminal leave, and permissive leave plans in advance when participating in SkillBridge.
* "No restrictions apply for service members with fewer than six years of service, provided their commander approves participation." Command approval is key in eligibility, and local policies might vary.
== Practical Tips ==
== Practical Tips ==
 
* '''Practice Interviews''': Apply for jobs at companies you’re less interested in to refine your interviewing and negotiation skills.
'' '''Practice Interviews''': Apply for jobs at companies you’re less interested in to refine your interviewing and negotiation skills. This preparation makes you more competitive for the roles and companies you truly desire.
* '''Negotiating Civilian Jobs''': Learn to anchor your salary expectations high. Try to avoid giving the first number in salary discussions.
'' '''Negotiating Civilian Jobs''': Learn to anchor your salary expectations high. Calculate your expenses, savings, and taxes, then add 30%. Try to avoid giving the first number in salary discussions; let them make the first offer if possible. Use all available benefits, such as maxing out 401k contributions, especially if there is an employer match, and take advantage of FSAs.


<span id="financial-planning"></span>
<span id="financial-planning"></span>
== Financial Planning ==
== Financial Planning ==
* '''Maximize Savings''': Live frugally in the early stages of your new career to maximize savings and investments.


* '''Maximize Savings''': Live frugally in the early stages of your new career to maximize savings and investments. Utilize employer-sponsored retirement plans and personal retirement accounts to secure your financial future.
[[Category:Military Transition]]
[[Category:Veteran Resources]]
[[Category:Career Development]]
[[Category:Financial Planning]]
[[Category:Resume Writing]]
[[Category:Entrepreneurship]]

Latest revision as of 23:59, 25 September 2024

Transitioning Out of the Military

Overview

Transitioning out of the military involves understanding retirement processes and adapting to civilian employment. This guide simplifies these steps with structured resources and advice.

Worthy Quotes:

Don’t leave benefits you’ve earned on the table due to pride or neglect.

Also remember your salary does not correlate with your worth. Especially if you’ve been in for a long time, your first job out may be more junior than your ego thinks is right, and your salary lower. But I got some excellent career advice in my early 20s when agonizing over a decision. A mentor said — this is not for the rest of your life. And yeah, of course no kidding. But you lose that perspective when the emotions are running high and you get insecure about things and you just want the security of the job offer.

Many non-defense companies may feel intimidated. Leave your jargon, ego, profanity, and rank behind.

Transition Assistance

Military Transition Assistance

  • Military Side: Numerous programs help with retirement or ETS (Expiration Term of Service) processes.
  • Civilian Side: Insights from professionals outside the military are crucial, especially if entering an unrelated field.

Transition Assistance Program (TAP)

  • Attend the “retiree” version of TAP if possible, focusing more on retiree benefits and less on the GI Bill.
  • “First thing is to take it seriously. Show up, pay attention, take notes. Interview prep is a skill. You are competing for a job.” — Engage fully in TAP and prepare thoroughly for what’s ahead.

Professional Guidance

Classes and Seminars

  • MilBridge Consulting: Noel McCall (704-904-4835, [email protected]) – Helps with resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and understanding the civilian recruitment process.
  • JANUS 101/Donovan Bank Foundation: Paul ([email protected]), Drew ([email protected]) – Offers seminars for retiring ARSOF members on transitioning, life insurance choices, and more.
  • The Honor Foundation: Foundation – Specialized programs for transitioning members.

Resume Writing

Applying with Recommendations

  • Defense Related: Leverage military connections. Reach out to former colleagues in defense industries for referrals.
  • Non-Defense Related: Expand your network and use professional networking sites to connect with industry leaders.

Cold Applications

  • Defense Related: Tailor your resume using industry-specific terminology, emphasizing skills like security clearances and leadership experience.
  • Non-Defense Related: Highlight transferable skills and how military experience can translate to civilian success.

Networking and Skill Development

  • Utilize non-military experts for new perspectives and strategies.
  • "Prepare answers to likely questions, rehearse. Many non-defense companies may feel intimidated. Leave your jargon, ego, profanity, and rank behind."
  • Mention projects you’ve started, even if not completed, to own your experience.

Entrepreneurship and Creative Ventures

  • Consider starting your own business, engaging in side projects, or exploring creative ventures like online stores.

Area Specific Tips

  • Look for local veteran resources and groups for tailored advice.

MedBoarding

  • Understanding Medboarding: Make sure to get assessed for potential disabilities and understand the benefits you’ve earned.
  • "Most counties have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) who can help navigate the VA and state benefits. If you can’t find them on your county or state veterans affairs page, try your local American Legion or VFW post."

State Considerations for Disabled Veterans

  • Texas: Generous property tax exemptions, no state income tax.
  • Illinois: Offers property tax exemptions and income tax waivers for military retirement pay.
  • Florida: Provides property tax benefits and state education benefits.
  • New Hampshire: Offers tax exemptions for veterans with adapted homes.
  • Virginia: Exempts up to $15,000 of military pay from state income tax.

Additional Resources

Business Resources

Education and Internships

Service Member

  • Explore opportunities for further education and internships to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers. "You can spend your last six months doing a skill bridge with industry. "
  • The DOD SkillBridge Program offers valuable civilian work experience for service members during their final 180 days of service. However, participation is subject to approval by the service member's commander, typically an O6 memo for some branches like the Air Force, while others, like the Army, have their approval processes. Eligibility generally requires service members to serve at least 180 continuous days on active duty. Commanders may approve or disapprove participation based on unit mission requirements.
  • Approval Process: Commanders must authorize participation, considering unit needs. Participants should complete all Transition Assistance Program (TAP) requirements before starting SkillBridge. Each branch may impose additional requirements.


Thought I'd chime in... I'm three months into a six-month Skillbridge with a company not on the approved Skillbridge list. There are ways to legitimately do that with additional paperwork. Something to be aware of is the Skillbridge process is changing. Also worth noting is the following. https://www.socom.mil/care-coalition/Pages/Career-Transition.aspx Buried in, there is a SOCOM "Skillbridge"-like program. Within that are companies (five?) certified Military Mentorship Partners who act as headhunters and look to place you in the right environment/organizations for your skill sets/experiences. I hadn't even heard of the SOCOM program, and I've already gone through SFLTAP, my Unit's equivalent, the Wounded Warrior Foundation, and the GBF. Just goes to show you there are probably opportunities out there where just unaware of

Employer

Businesses participating in the DOD SkillBridge Program gain access to skilled, highly motivated service members transitioning out of the military. Through this initiative, employers can create tailored training programs that meet their specific workforce needs while benefiting from the Department of Defense covering service members' salaries and benefits during their final 180 days of service. This allows companies to integrate experienced veterans into their workforce at no additional cost. Employers can host training on base or at their facilities, and virtual or remote learning options are available, making it accessible regardless of location. To ensure success, companies should provide clear job training and development programs, aligning with industry demands and offering a high probability of employment for service members upon completion.

Practical Tips

  • To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended that service members finalize out-processing, terminal leave, and permissive leave plans in advance when participating in SkillBridge.
  • "No restrictions apply for service members with fewer than six years of service, provided their commander approves participation." Command approval is key in eligibility, and local policies might vary.

Practical Tips

  • Practice Interviews: Apply for jobs at companies you’re less interested in to refine your interviewing and negotiation skills.
  • Negotiating Civilian Jobs: Learn to anchor your salary expectations high. Try to avoid giving the first number in salary discussions.

Financial Planning

  • Maximize Savings: Live frugally in the early stages of your new career to maximize savings and investments.
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