I distinctly recall the unease that settled within me as I attended a conference, where one panelist suggested that military spouses returning from a career gap might have to settle for entry-level positions.

However, a glimmer of hope emerged when another panelist highlighted the pivotal role of LinkedIn in such situations.

LinkedIn, we all know, can be a game changer in today’s job search, but understanding how and why is key.

Here are a few remarkable ways in which LinkedIn can prove invaluable for military spouses:

1. Military Spouse Hiring Initiatives:

While we seldom include “Military Spouse” as a job title on our resumes, LinkedIn offers the perfect platform to proudly declare our status. By showcasing your identity as a military spouse, recruiters can easily find and connect with you. Embrace this opportunity to participate in the numerous military spouse hiring initiatives, where you can boldly proclaim, “I am a military spouse!” — not quite from the rooftops, but you catch the drift.

2. Community:

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Seek out and join vibrant military spouse community pages and groups. A fantastic starting point is our very own Hire Heroes USA Serving Spouses page. Let the supportive network guide you forward.

3. Sharing Your Story:

LinkedIn serves as an extension of your resume, allowing others to see the multifaceted individual behind the document. Use this platform to articulate the reasons behind your career gap, unveil your passions and showcase the valuable skills you bring to the table.

4. Networking:

As a military spouse, you qualify for a complimentary year of LinkedIn Premium. This invaluable resource empowers you to connect with hiring managers and recruiters, expressing your interest in positions they have posted. It amplifies your visibility, expands your network, and opens doors to new opportunities.

5. Professional Development:

With LinkedIn Premium, you gain access to LI Learning, an unparalleled resource to refine existing skills and acquire new ones. Embrace this opportunity to polish your professional toolkit, equipping yourself with a competitive edge.

6. Research and Connect:

Are you particularly intrigued by a certain company? Follow them on LinkedIn. Engage with employees through their ‘People’ page, reaching out to connect with personalized messages.

Step outside your comfort zone and initiate coffee chats, sharing your common field of interest. There are endless variations of these introductions, so personalize them authentically to reflect who you are.

This is merely the tip of the iceberg;

LinkedIn’s vast potential extends far beyond. In a nutshell, leverage your resources and embrace this versatile platform that stands as a beacon of opportunity!

*If you are a current client of HHUSA, don’t forget that you can benefit from a FREE LinkedIn Profile review. Simply inform your Transition Specialist of your interest!

Author, Lauren McKnight 

Lauren McKnight is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA. As an Army Spouse, she understands the hardships that come with each PCS.

Lauren has been through the fear of not being able to find employment after living overseas and raising her family for a few years.

Because of that, she wants to be able to help other spouses overcome those same challenges. Lauren has a background working in non-profits and higher education. In her most recent experience, she worked in HR and learned recruitment processes.

Now, she is able to advise and guide her clients utilizing her recruitment knowledge and HR skills. Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and is so happy to finally be giving back to others in a way that impacts her very own community.

*For more from HHUSA, Visit our Expert Blogger Page.

*Discover the support you deserve by joining our Military Spouse Support Facebook Forum or the Serving Spouses LinkedIn Group. Together, we’ll empower your career journey!