Here are three tips for current #Servicemembers.

1. Ensure all of your medical records are up to date with diagnoses and treatment records. You want to ensure the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs can link your claims to the service. I know the many of us get caught up in the thought process around not trying to be a broken soldier, but frankly, your unit isn't worried about you when you are no longer serving. Take care of yourself, first and foremost. Make sure if you are having any issues, get it documented. So many new things are coming from studies around burn-pits or gulf war syndrome, and having it documented while you are in, ties it to the military.

2. Begin connecting with folks a year out! Get on LinkedIn and engage with potential employers and Veteran advocates like ✪ Adam Braatz ✪ and The Post-Military Professional or Michael Quinn. Partner with organizations like Veterati, American Corporate Partners (ACP), or the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce. You can never begin connecting too early. It's important to have a plan around connecting with folks as well. If you need help doing so, reach out. I'd be happy to assist.

3. Identify three things you want to do when you get out (work, attend college, start your own business. etc.) and map out a plan, beginning with the end result, and walking yourself backwards. Include a full financial plan along with it. Many of us don't know what we want to do, what it is going to cost, or how we are going to continue living the lifestyle we were accustomed to in the military. You will now have additional costs for clothing, food, and shelter. Just make sure you understand how are going to fund the end goal.

It's important to note that your resume is an important part of documenting all that you have done as a service-member, but folks want to hear about you and hear your story. A resume doesn't do that. Every Veteran is unique, and every Veteran brings value to the table. Let's talk about how to effectively tell yours.