Stepping into the role of military spouse is an often-overlooked transition that impacts both your home life and your career. While settling into your new day-to-day may seem simple, there is little discourse on the difficulties surrounding employment for military spouses.
Whether it be your first job with an active duty partner, or your hundredth, here are some tips that will expedite your job search!
Step 1
The first step toward finding a new position is preparing for your upcoming job search. While this may be easy for some with an already established idea of what career they would like to go into (or back into), others may need to do additional research. Luckily for those who are confused, looking for a change of pace, or even researching careers for the first time, the U.S. Department of Labor has you covered.
With quizzes surrounding ability and interest, users are easily able to identify what career they may fit in best. Navigating to the website’s interest quiz will allow individuals to easily see what jobs they are qualified for, as well as what they will likely excel at. Determining what career you would like to go into is a pivotal first step for those interested in a new employment opportunity.
Step 2
After deciding what career suits you best and ensuring it is something you would like to pursue, it is time to update your resume. Whether you have been actively looking for a job or have been out of the workforce for some time, modernizing your resume is a crucial part of any job search.
Check that you have an up-to-date employment history and be sure to include any gaps that you may have taken, such as taking some years off to raise a child, or time outside of the U.S. Utilize these gaps to include practical skills that you may have gained experience in during this time, such as multitasking, learning a new language, volunteering, or communicating with others from various cultures.
Applying to jobs with a renovated resume allows employers to get the most accurate depiction of who you are, increasing your chances of success in your job search.
Step 3
Not sure where to begin looking for jobs? No problem! Your unique status as a military spouse (active-duty or veteran) provides you with a multitude of opportunities, with bosses looking to hire individuals just like you!
Currently, there are hundreds of websites dedicated to employing those in your exact position. Military Spouse, a website endorsed by the U.S. Army, is well-known for their commitment to hiring the partners of those who serve. Centered around enriching the lives of both those who serve, and their families, Military Spouse provides virtual career expos, news, and even discounts for military spouses around the world.
Another resource previously mentioned that can ensure a successful job hunt is the U.S. Department of Labor. With tools to locate where specific jobs in your chosen career are clustered, the Department of Labor ensures that finding employment in your chosen career path is simple, and stress-free.
Step 4
Want to interact with others who have previously been in your position? Both the American Corporate Partners (ACP) program and Career One Stop-American Job Centers (AJCs) may be right up your alley!
The former is a year-long program, focused on pairing military spouses with mentors to ensure professional development through communication, connection, and coaching. If a year-long commitment seems too intrusive for your liking, Career One Stop-American Job Centers may be able to aid you in your job search. Centered around helping individuals find jobs, complete any necessary training, and locate employment opportunities, AJCs is ready to answer your questions about your future position.
Step 5
The final tip that every military spouse should know when looking for work is to be open and adaptable. Networking with those around you allows you to make deep connections that can be lasting and allow you to get your foot in the door of your dream job. While being adaptable may inherently be in your nature, ensuring that it is something you practice will enable you to handle anything that comes your way.
While searching for a job may not be an ideal situation, being a military spouse allows you unique opportunities to secure the job or your dreams. Utilizing the tips outlined in this article, you are sure to create an opportunity you and your spouse can both be proud of. Now get out there!
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