Section 12: Professional Networking
There are certain groups that can be particularly helpful to connect with.
Your mission is to find, connect, and learn from them.
Much like investments, the best option when networking is to diversify. Connections across different backgrounds, industries, companies, and career paths will give you the best perspective. You may even find an exciting path to pursue that you hadn’t known about previously.
Each person in your network has something of value. This includes both military and non-military connections. You’ll learn from some individuals from a distance, while others will be highly engaged.
Within your network, there are two groups to pay special attention to:
People who left the military and work at companies you’re interested in.
People who were not in the military, but have achieved similar goals that you have.
Those who left the military and successfully transitioned into new roles are a great resource. They understand where you're coming from and the challenges ahead.
Likewise, non-military members provide a valuable perspective from someone unfamiliar with the military. These individuals can help ensure the way you talk about your skills and experience are universally understandable.
Veterans / Military Spouses working at your target companies
One of the best places to start is with veterans and military spouses working at companies you're interested in. You can use LinkedIn's search filters to find people that served in the same branch, even the same military job, that now work at companies you're targeting.
The great thing about this group is that you already share something in common. Even if you weren't stationed at the same base, had the same job, or even served in the same branch, you still have the military in common.
These individuals have first-hand knowledge of transition process. They know what it takes to land a job at a company you’re interested in.
When speaking with them, ask about their journey, what obstacles they faced, and what they learned through the process. They can also provide a valuable perspective of what it's like to work at your target company.
Another option is to connect with veterans and military spouses with recruiting expertise. They've sat at both ends of the table. They understand the military as well as the interview process with civilian employers.
Resource Spotlight
American Corporate Partners - Connects post-9/11 veterans, active duty spouses and eligible military spouses with corporate professionals for customized mentorships. ACP assists veterans and eligible spouses on their path towards fulfilling, long-term careers.
Non-Military connections
Networking with those that didn’g serve in the military is equally valuable. Similar to the previous group, they can provide insights of what it's like to work at a particular company.
Additionally, non-military members are a great resource around topics like your resume and LinkedIn profile. Without in-depth knowledge of the military, they’re able to determine if your experience, accomplishments, and skills are universally understandable.
This is especially beneficial when you consider that most recruiters reviewing your resume will have limited knowledge of the military.
Everyone you meet with has their own journey and a story to tell. There’s something that can be learned from each and every interaction. Approach these conversations from a lens of curiosity and you’ll be surprised at what you learn!