Branding Help: Transitioning from a Military Career to a Civilian Career

The military culture is well-defined, and members are entrenched in the culture. Often, there is a military or civilian way of thinking. Naturally, when separating from the military individuals may feel unsure or uncomfortable about their new identity. Learning how to brand yourself in a civilian work environment will make your professional transition much smoother and less stressful. 

Branding through Professional Development

Take advantage of services and programs available to veterans, such as training courses to facilitate the transition into a new career.  It may be a matter of refreshing skills or perhaps you want to pick up new skills to boost your marketability.  First, identify your career goal; next seek the training that fills any gaps in skills or knowledge.  Earning certifications, licenses, diplomas, and college degrees are a core part of your brand.

Branding through a Resume

Consider your skills, knowledge, and record of accomplishments. It is important to communicate those skills, knowledge, and accomplishments through the lens of your target employer. If you are targeting a corporation, articulate your values in corporate terminology rather than military jargon.  In the military, you probably received considerable training and performed in highly responsible roles.  So, it is a matter of relating those things in a way in which a corporate hiring manager can relate.  This is a major step forward in re-branding yourself during your transition from the military.

Branding through Social Media

In today’s job market, social media is a must.  There are two sides to the social media coin.   On one side, social media can lift your brand and help hiring employers to find you.  Sites such as LinkedIn are as important as a resume during a job search and throughout your career.  However, if you mismanage your social media presence, it can be a brand-burner.  Be sure that all aspects of your brand are consistent and promote you for the next stage in your career.  In transitioning from the military, pay special attention to the keywords that you feature and your overall choice of language  As you have on your resume, be careful to speak in civilian terms so you can connect with those hiring managers who are reviewing your LinkedIn page.

The Bottom Line

Transitioning from a military career to a civilian career is a big change. Re-branding yourself can expedite and facilitate this transition. Take advantage services available to veterans to assist with professional training.  Write your new resume and update your social media profiles to appeal to your new target audience.  These steps will help you build, manage, and maintain a compelling new brand.