An important step in leaving the military and starting your life as a civilian is the Department of Defense’s 
Transition Assistance Program. Go here for an overview, embedded resources, and links to each service branch’s iteration of the program.

When TAP first appeared more than 20 years ago, it ran for five hours and participation was voluntary. Now, it takes a week and attendance is mandatory, although retirees may opt out. The mission and content of TAP is important, and the value you receive depends on the trainers at your installation and the amount of effort you put into it.

Regardless of the quality of the service provided and your participation, you might miss out on some critical information, especially in the job hunting and interviewing components of the program. Here are four important lessons to add to what you already know.

During a recent career coaching session with a fellow named Charles, an Army major who was about to retire, I asked him what he would really like to do in his civilian career. He replied that figuring out the answer to that question was his biggest stumbling block.

That is not uncommon for people in his situation, so I asked him the same question, but in a different way. I said, “OK, forget about the titles and instead just give me the elements or characteristics of what you would be good at and what would make you happy.”

He smiled and said, “That’s easy, Tom. I want to control my own destiny. Sink or swim on my own merits. Call my own shots. Get my hands dirty. Work hard, and get paid for it. Be home most nights for dinner and not have to relocate.”

I asked, “Charles, have you thought about going into business for yourself?”