Blog post

Making the Career Transition
Posted by Stephen Taylor on April 24

Earlier this week, I participated in a career panel discussion hosted by the New York Marine Executive Association (MEA) at the Soldiers and Sailors Club in NYC. We discussed the current economic landscape, the struggles military veterans are facing transitioning from the military to the civilian work force, and how veterans can best highlight their “transferable skills.”

The often-difficult readjustment from military service to civilian life is now compounded by a struggling economy and high unemployment. Unfortunately, the economic downturn is affecting Iraq and Afghanistan veterans more so than our civilian peers. In 2007, the unemployment rate amongst Iraq and Afghanistan veterans was 8%. By March 2009, the unemployment rate amongst our newest generation of veterans had jumped to 11.2%, while the civilian (non-veteran) unemployment rate held steady at 8.8%.

Panelists at The New York Marine Executive Association

In my closing remarks I provided three pieces of advices for the audience.

First, educate yourself. Attend career job fairs, call potential employers, and request informational interviews. During this education process you must figure out what it is you really want to do. It’s finally time to come up with an answer to the question, “What do I want to be when I grow up?”

Second, find a mentor. Find someone who has also made the transition from the military to the civilian work force. Find someone with a similar background who is currently working in the industry you want to work. Choose someone who will be candid with you about your market value (i.e. expected salary and position).

Third, remember where you came from. Military veterans are more likely to hire other military veterans. As a member of the military you learned the importance of esprit de corps, camaraderie, and fellowship – don’t forget it! As a military veteran you have an inexhaustible network - don’t be afraid to use it!

Steve Taylor is an Iraq veteran and serves as IAVA's Veteran Membership Associate.