As a military spouse, your life has been a whirlwind of relocations, deployments, and constant adaptations. You’ve likely put your own career aspirations on hold to support your partner’s service, becoming an expert in resilience, flexibility, and juggling multiple responsibilities along the way.

Now, as you transition to civilian life, it’s time to focus on your professional goals. Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce, change fields, or find a role that better suits your current lifestyle, this transition can feel daunting.

But fear not!

As a military spouse of 13 years and still going strong, I can offer insights, tips, and encouragement every step of the way.

1.) Skills Assessments: A Crucial First Step

First and foremost, recognize the incredible skill set you’ve developed. Military life requires exceptional organizational abilities, problem-solving skills, and the capacity to thrive under pressure.

You’ve likely mastered logistics, leadership, adaptability, and crisis management, which are highly valued in any workplace. Online tools like My Next Move and CareerOneStop can help you identify strengths you may have overlooked. Pay special attention to skills honed through your experiences as a military spouse:

•  Logistics – Your expertise in managing complex moves and household operations translates to valuable project management and organizational skills.
• Leadership – Coordinating family life during deployments and within military communities has likely developed your leadership abilities.
• Adaptability – Frequent relocations have made you adept at quickly adjusting to new environments and cultures
• Crisis Management – Handling unexpected changes and challenges has equipped you with critical problem-solving skills.

2.) Upskilling: Bridging the Gap

Remember, upskilling is an ongoing process. Stay curious and committed to continuous learning. By consistently enhancing your skills, you’ll not only make yourself more marketable but also boost your confidence as you transition into your new career.

Once you’ve identified your core skills, focus on upskilling to meet the demands of your target industry:

• Online Learning Platforms – Coursera offers a wide range of courses and professional certificates, many of which are recognized by top employers. Look for their “Google Career Certificates” or “IBM Professional Certificates” for in-demand skills
• Industry-Specific Training – Research certifications or training programs specific to your desired field. Many offer discounts or scholarships for military spouses.
• LinkedIn Learning – Offers courses tailored to business, creative, and technology skills, with the added benefit of showcasing completed courses directly on your LinkedIn profile.

3.) Networking: Explore Your Options and Research New Fields

Career change doesn’t necessarily mean starting from scratch. Explore different industries and roles that interest you, while building a network to support your transition.

Your resume and LinkedIn profile are your marketing tools. Tailor them to highlight your relevant skills and experiences, using language that resonates with civilian employers. Focus on accomplishments and quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Network with Professionals – Connect with individuals in your desired field. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and conduct informational interviews. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire in your target industry – many professionals are happy to offer advice to those transitioning careers.
• Research Market Trends – Understand the demand in various sectors. Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide valuable insights into job growth and salaries. Additionally, set up Google Alerts for your target industry to stay updated on the latest news and developments.
• Reconnect with Old Contacts – Review your email contacts and LinkedIn connections focusing on people who work in industries or roles you’re interested in. Don’t overlook former colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances from your pre-military life. These connections can provide valuable insights and potential opportunities in your target field.

Embarking on a career change after years as a military spouse is a journey filled with both challenges and opportunities.

Remember, this transition takes time, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. Stay patient and persistent, knowing that every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals.

Need a little push to get started?  Sign up with Hire Heroes USA today and begin your journey towards a fulfilling civilian career!

You’ll be assigned a 1:1 career coach who understands the unique challenges and strengths of military spouses. With the right guidance and resources, you can successfully pivot your career and achieve your professional aspirations.

Written By Janine Spurrier

Janine is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA. She has been a military spouse for over 10 years and knows firsthand the struggles of searching for employment and the barriers that come along with each PCS.

She has most recently taken a few years off to live overseas, travel, and raise her family while creating a dynamic home environment for their two boys.

Janine has experience as a Recruiter and an HR Assistant which have helped her guide her clients in the process of networking and standing out to recruiters and potential employers.

She has a passion for learning and serving others and truly values an organization that empowers the military community.

*To read more posts like this, visit HHUSA’s Expert Blog Page on M:M website.