Transitioning from the military is a whirlwind, this plan will help guide you through the process.

As a recent Army vet turned Redeployable Head of Operations, Tom shares his guide to using resettlement to get on your feet and find your calling. By breaking down the year into blocks, you'll ensure that the year doesn't pass you by, and that you do the right things, at the right time.

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We're sure it will be a big help.

Months 1-3: Figuring Stuff Out

It's okay if you're feeling a bit lost. Start by jotting down everything, even the stuff you know you don't want. Trust us, it's a starting point. Consider:

• Minimum Salary: Even factor in those little luxuries that you’re used to and are non-negotiable. 
• Location and Travel: Think about what’s important to you, travel time can take a lot of hours out of your home life, but working from an office can be hugely beneficial too. 
• Working Pattern: Are you a 9-to-5er or are you looking to be a bit more flexible? Lots of civilian jobs give you this freedom now. 
• Type of Work: Big teams or small? Do you have specific skills you want to use? What gets you fired up?

Then, dive into the industries that are booming where you want to live. Narrow down your choices and start sketching out some career paths. Writing it all down on a whiteboard or a big piece of paper is a great way to visualise all your priorities. If you are more computer-orientated, try software like Miro or Trello. 

Months 4-6: Network, hard. 

Military transition events and chats with folks who've done the civilian thing are pure gold. Don't be shy about asking all the questions, prepare a list in advance and if you can, look up the guest list when you attend events.This means you can go after the people who you're most interested in. Plus, having some background knowledge on what they do and which organisation they work for means you can get one step ahead in the conversation and really stand out.

Get active on LinkedIn, connect with people in your chosen field, and sign up for courses to boost those skills. Don't feel like you can't reach out to people you don't know. Remember, the worst that can happen is someone doesn't want to speak to you, and they might not reply. Thats fine. Remember, people reach out to new connections on LinkedIn ALL THE TIME, so it won't come as a surprise to anyone.

And use Redeployable. Our network of veterans has either been there and done it, or they’re going through the process. It’s a space for you to post your questions, look for articles or videos giving advice, attend events and arrange to meet up with others. Networking is made easily essentially. 

Months 7-9: Polish Your Profile

Give your LinkedIn and CV a makeover that shows off that you’re a military skills powerhouse. Make sure you have a smart, professional headshot. Align your one-liner title with your aspirations, rather than your past role in the military. This means people searching for people within that function will find your profile.

Get references from your mates, colleagues and those who have seen you in action, on LinkedIn. Ask them to endorse you for the things that they know you're excellent at. Pick out key moments in your experience that showcase where your skills lie, and back them up with results. Make sure you know which skills you’ll need for different industries and roles too, and be ready to flex these. Knowing your stuff is key when interviews roll around.

And if you can snag some work experience or an internship, go for it! Tom’s internship with Redeployable turned into something pretty great.

Months 10-12: Cue the applications

This is where the rubber meets the road. Send those applications out, practice your interview skills (check out our blog for tips), and tap into your new network for referrals and insider knowledge. When you apply to each role, take the time to put your all into each one. Tailor your application and make sure you mention relevant skills and experiences. Remember, finding the right career is a journey. Even if you don't nail it right away, keep your chin up and keep pushing forward. 

And make the most out of the military peers you have access to on Redeployable. Go and meet your people now.

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