Whether you served four years or 20, it’s common to experience a wide range of emotions as you begin a new chapter of your life post-military. The transition can be both exciting and challenging, and you may be left wondering what’s next.
Finding purpose after military service takes time but with the right approach, you can rediscover a fulfilling life and career. To help guide you through this journey, we've developed an action plan with four key strategies. These steps will assist you in leveraging your unique experiences and skills as you embark on your post-military career.
4 Strategies for Rediscovering Life After Military Service
Approximately 200,000 service members transition to civilian life each year, so you’re not alone in taking the next steps to your future. According to a recent survey of Veterans, a meaningful job after serving in the military depends on:
- Good compensation (61%)
- Serving a purpose (59%)
- Work-life balance (59%)
- Happiness at work (58%)
- Passion about their vocation (53%)
Do any of those ring true with you? Use this four-step action plan to help you set the course for your post-military career.
1. Reflect on Your Strengths and Skills
First and foremost, credit yourself for what you did while serving your country. You learned a lot, gained new skills, and accomplished even more. You’ve demonstrated your dedication to your job and country, leadership, and the ability to work as part of a high-performing team. You understand the value of following systems and procedures and can work under pressure.
Remember that your military skills and experience will translate to a civilian workplace.
You may have already started to explore the personalized career planning and guidance offered by The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. As part of that process or to start your own career planning process, conduct a self-assessment of your skills.
Make a chart with the following columns — technology, job knowledge, soft skills, and leadership skills — and add your experience to each column. One strategy that may be effective is to start with basic training, move on to your advanced individual training and other training, and then finish with what you did on an average workday.
2. Engage in Your Community
Getting involved in your community is a great way to strengthen your bonds with neighbors, network, learn about business opportunities, and do a little bit of good while you’re at it. Here are a few things you can do:
- Consider joining or starting a veteran support group in your area.
- Take part in community service activities like local cleanup events, food drives, or other volunteer opportunities.
- Join local veteran organizations to connect with fellow service members.
- Volunteer at schools or youth programs to share your experiences.
- Participate in community events and local government meetings to stay informed about local events.
3. Explore Post Military Career Options
One of the most significant aspects of post-military service is mapping a new career path. Instead of hopping directly onto Veteran job search sites, consider how you want your career to develop.
First, list career or job interests you may want to pursue and then group them into related categories. While working on this exercise, avoid keeping your list too narrow. Feel free to add non-traditional options. Are there any trends pointing to a specific career type or industry? Do any of the areas of interest stand out above the rest?
Next, compare your list and insights to your strengths and skills assessment. Look for alignments between career opportunities and what you already know.
Finally, consider your work-life balance goals to provide guidance between veteran entrepreneurship or joining the public or private workforce. Many veterans find that life after military service is the perfect time to explore working for themselves, leveraging their leadership skills and discipline, and building thriving businesses.
4. Consider Veteran Franchise Opportunities
If your insights, goals, and preferences lead you to owning your own business, consider the benefits of owning a franchise. Veterans and franchising make an excellent match, as the structure and systems in franchising resonate with those with military experience.
As you explore franchise opportunities, ask yourself three questions. If the answer to any of them is no, move on to a different franchise concept or brand.
- Does the industry appeal to you and leverage your strengths and skills?
- Is there a need in your area for the products or services the franchise offers?
- Does the franchisor respect Veterans and have experience working with them?
Ask about financing options for Veterans: many franchisors offer or connect you to special incentives or discounts for veterans that make ownership especially appealing.
Ready To Start a New Life After Military Service?
As you embark on your journey to rediscover life after military service, remember that this is a unique chance to shape your future. Take the time to explore all your options and find a path that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Your service has prepared you for this next chapter in your life, and you’re well-equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities ahead of you. At Neighborly®, we’re committed to supporting military Veterans like you and are happy to discuss how you can build a meaningful and successful life after military service.
Learn more about how we help Veterans become business owners.
