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How can I showcase talent if I haven't done the job in years or have a degree with little or no experience?

Veteran

Keesha Ferebee Lewisville, TX

Since being out of the Army I have had many jobs. The problem is I haven't been able to snag one in my field (Intelligence) or my area of study (Criminal justice). I moved to the DMV last year in hopes of finding something, but I'm working retail and am barely surviving. I've had a few people look at my resume and "change" things around, but it still looks the same in my opinion. I've tried to fix it myself and I can't seem to find the words I need or change it to fit a specific job I'm applying for. How can I showcase the fact that I meet the job requirements for certain jobs without the experience but have the degrees? Any help is greatly appreciated!

9 November 2014 21 replies Resumes & Cover Letters

Answers

Advisor

Jim Michalek Houston, TX

Keesha, this may be way down on your list of higher aspirations, but as the owner of a (51) year old independent insurance claims office in Houston, Texas, and an active claims investigator for (49) years, I can tell you that these types of companies are always looking for qualified people who can think on their feet and your Army background has certainly proven your worth in that regard. There is a real need for an investigative mind set and the ability to gather facts in the insurance claims field.
I think sometimes we all think that our path has to follow a very narrow trail based on what we did before, but your specific talents and training lend themselves to a lot of other job opportunities.
You may have to consider relocating if that is a possibility for you.

13 November 2014 Helpful answer

Advisor

Aleta Anderson Silver Spring, MD

Hello, I am not sure what your chosen field is but a high profile internship can step up your resume and your game. All Media Linked is based in your area and provides a variety of career experiences & networking possibilities via internship. Contact us at info@AllMediaLinked.com
Check us out at www.AllMediaLinked.com

Advisor

Michael Schmidt West Palm Beach, FL

I'm a rags to riches guy, street smart who worked to earn my MBA and CFA and 30 years later a top ranked analyst and well off. When I was job hunting I would go straight to the top, try to meet the CEO, send them actual hand written letter in Certified mail. (I actually hired someone just because she did that to me).

In your case, try to meet with your local sheriff, PC etc. Attend an event where they are speaking, push your way to the front and introduce yourself then send that letter and ask for an appointment even if its just coffee. You're a soldier, think of job hunting like the military; train, practice and head for the leader.

Advisor

Michael Schmidt West Palm Beach, FL

I'm a rags to riches guy, street smart who worked to earn my MBA and CFA and 30 years later a top ranked analyst and well off. When I was job hunting I would go straight to the top, try to meet the CEO, send them actual hand written letter in Certified mail. (I actually hired someone just because she did that to me).

In your case, try to meet with your local sheriff, PC etc. Attend an event where they are speaking, push your way to the front and introduce yourself then send that letter and ask for an appointment even if its just coffee. You're a soldier, think of job hunting like the military; train, practice and head for the leader.

Advisor

Patrick Schwall Brick, NJ

Hi Keesha,

Look for internships or opportunities to volunteer in the field of your choice, even if it is part time and/or for a limited period of time. Many employers will appreciate the fact you are willing to do this in order to demonstrate your value to the company or agency you wish to work for.

Best of luck to you in your job search!

Advisor

Nancy Stober Hillsborough, NJ

Hi Keesha:

Thank you for your service! What is in your background that is transferable and applicable to intelligence and criminal justice, that is what you need to highlight on your resume even if the title does not have to do with CJ or Intelligence. Also any cert programs. offers to do volunteer help in those areas you can build your resume. You need to network as well.
Keep us posted.
best
Nancy

Advisor

Bruce Montville Hampton, NH

Volunteer your services to law enforcement agencies and homeland security offices.
First, get a fresh criminal background check done on yourself to show and tell.
Be sure to always mention your prior level of security clearance. As you know, they are
open 24/7.

Active and recent Volunteer experience will lead to references and some job offers.

Advisor

Les Cohn Boynton Beach, FL

Hi Keesha,

You've received many responses - and this may also have been mentioned, but I would recommend a professionally designed Visual Resume that *showcases* your talent. That seemed to be the issue. You can contact me for examples or assistance.

Advisor

Deborah R. Young Lafayette, LA

Keesha, be encouraged! When I managed in hospitals, I was always looking for the person who could really be an asset and contribute to our team. A well-written, targeted cover letter and resume which showcases your skills and talents are a must. However, the manner in which, and how you interview is key. Do you research the company before you arrive at the interview? The job itself? What does the company need right now? Are your skills compatible? Think like a manager. Would you hire you? Are you a good fit for the company and team? I suggest having a friend videotape you ( your cell phone will do ), with
your friend as the interviewer. Make a list of questions that you remember being asked during your past interviews. Study the videotape to find out if there are areas which you need to improve on for a successful interview and hire. I agree with the other Advisors that it would be good to explore jobs in civil service and law enforcement. How about TSA at your local airport? Explore all options. It's okay to start at entry level and continue to climb at a company.

Also, please stay connected to your local or regional VA office and/or healthcare team. You have the support that we didn't have when we were discharged. Please take advantage of whatever is offered that you need. I hope that this answer was helpful! Pastor D

Advisor

Al Maresca

I have to agree with the aforementioned posts that suggest obtaining entry level experience. If you want a career in Law Enforcement (LE), you need to start acquiring experience in that field.

It sounds ridiculous, but I literally worked as a Special Law Enforcement Officer (SLEO) for $7.00 per hour after I graduated college. Because I was willing to show the department what I had, they ended up putting me through the Police Academy. That certification and my proven commitment put me at the top of a 1,000 applicant hiring list.

When I decide to go Federal for mobility reasons, my EXPERIENCE allowed me to transition into another entry level job, but this time I was making $43K per year to start.

I now work in a dream job, where I get to use my skills as a life coach, and maintain my LE pension while working normal business hours.

The point being is you need to create yourself a plan and stick to it. Don't worry about what anyone will say, or think -- just stick to YOUR plan and make your dreams come true.

Advisor

Dave Weinberg Rio Rancho, NM

Thank you for your service, Keesha. You did not address your willingness to relocate. If that is off the table, I concur with several of the suggestions above in looking at federal jobs. Have you looked at Homeland Security. They have several intel type groups, some totally internal, some with detailees out with other intel organizations. If you have a TS/SCI, that would be most attractive, but there are lots of parts of DHS that require only a Secret clearance, or in some cases - not intel - no clearance at all. If you are willing to relocate, your options and possibilities are much greater.

I also concur with another advisor in you looking into law enforcement. Again, depending on your interest in relocating, there are many places looking for new LE recruits (Albuquerque is one). Also be aware that DHS has set up "fusion centers" in every state (by now), which are looking at largely intel issues at the federal-to-state level. In addition to that, there is also the FBI who have intel in DC, but also have intel folks in JTTF's (joint terrorism task force) scattered around the country.

Advisor

Robin Schlinger Atlanta, GA

You may want to look at applying to Federal jobs - with your experience. If so, you will need a properly written Federal resume. Find jobs that you can answer you have done all the duties and are an expert in the vacancy questions. It can help to network with folks to find those jobs - since people hire people they know.

It helps if you follow the proper format and address every question and duty in the Federal resume. There are several books available that can show you what you need to include in the resume.

If you are interested in a specific career field, you may need to go to school to increase your skills - and to let employers you have the skills - to get there. Use some of the benefits you got by being a veteran to gain additional training if the field requires that. Explore your passions (look at the books 5 Steps to Rapid Employment by Jay Block and What Color is My Parachute by Richard Nelson Bolles).

It sometimes can take a bit to find the right place, but go after it passionately. Remember, if you are not an exact fit for the job you find online, you will need to network to that job most likely. Networking is building relationships with people - and I believe that is the best way to get a job in the long run.

Advisor

Stefan Beyer Kirkland, WA

For my job applications, I always put a "Job-Specific Skills" section at the very top of my resume (under my name and contact info) in which I explicitly point out which of the items in the jobs "Requirements" section (verbatim if possible) I possess. Afterwards is my general resume.

Cover letters will also be your friend in this situation, as it allows you to explain how your strengths can offset any missing qualifications you might have.

Advisor

Paul Trejo Austin, TX

Hi Keesha,

First, thank you for your years of service. Secondly, I've been where you are, and I want to urge you to KEEP THE FAITH. You can have a GREAT career, but it will take TIME. Give it Time and don't give up, no matter how long it takes.

My advice is this -- get into official Law Enforcement at any level you can. Don't hestitate to take a job at the bottom, if you have to. Take a low salary and eat humble pie for a little while. After ONE YEAR everything will change for you -- I've seen this happen before.

You will LOVE your new job. But you need to start at the bottom (well, since you're in retail, you're already at the bottom for a career person). That's the key. When your first annual review comes up, your past experience (no matter how long ago) will JUMP OUT at the managers.

You are currently an Unknown Quantity. Managers don't like Unknowns. Resumes and Certificates are everything -- and Experience tops the list. What was your LAST job and your CURRENT job? That is their main question.

So, if you start at the bottom (all over again) and give it one year there, then after one year of "probation" so-to-speak, as they watch your punctuality and other basics -- you will QUICKLY be bumped up to your appropriate level. Then you will shine. Then, your next promotion will be everything you dreamed about for a Career.

It's unfortunate that you're not doing the job you're trained to do -- and I've been there. But it's worth YEARS of effort to bite the bullet and make the change into your field -- and the only guaranteed way to do that quickly is to START AT THE BOTTOM INSIDE YOUR FIELD.

Best wishes,
--Paul Trejo

Advisor

barbara hawes Brielle, NJ

All the above are great ideas. Additionally, networking has become the most successful way of finding a job in your field- either through social media or in person. Look for professional associations and attend their conferences. Use LinkedIn to find others in criminal justice and connect with them. Take a little time to volunteer for affiliated groups such as domestic violence advocates, or working with ex-cons transitioning out of prison (OAR is one example) -- those who are working with them will be among your contacts.

You don't need to update your resume for each job.... I keep several versions of my resume depending on the level or type of job I generally apply for. Less editing, more focused on the specific job. Your cover letter is key: THAT needs to be focused and responding to the specific job and company you are looking for. Also, when you do get an interview, send a thank you card. Your name will be more memorable, and the card will help you stand out among the rest. I have held many management positions and hired many people in recent years. good luck!

Advisor

Wendy Murphy Asheville, NC

Hi Keesha, for every job that you want to apply for, address the needs of that job using keywords from the job description in your resume. Yes I am saying update your resume for every application. Most employers have systems that reject you automatically if you don't meet the minimum requirements, be aware to make sure your application shows that.
Next, if you don't have what you think is a perfect match for some of their words, think about what you have done that requires similar skills and make a case that shows that you have the equivalent. Avoid buzz words and try to state accomplishments, not duties. Example: not "fast learner" instead: "learned HTML from this book, and created these web pages" and give examples. I realize this example may not fit your situation, but I hope you get the drift. Keep a resume short, leave out goals and references. List your most recent degrees. Stress quantities or measurable things. Good luck.

Advisor

Patrick Haley Longmont, CO

Keesha,

I am uncertain if you have considered putting your profile on LinkdIn, other social media - please consider doing that - look at going social.

Also - looking at the DMV was a good step - you have to break-in to the system somewhere to start climbing the ladders. Do not discount FEMA, TSA, local law enforcement agencies, particularly at the state level. As one gentleman responded to you, be prepared to move.

Lastly, with an Intelligence background, connect the dots to getting some awareness / education on using Analytics. From an I/T perspective, the move going forward is CAMSS:
Cloud. Analytics, Mobile, Social, Security. The areas you are pursuing a career in will leverage all of these technologies. You do not have to be an expert in any of these, but if you can update your resume to simply say you have a "working knowledge" of these areas, it would be very beneficial to you. If you need help with a resume review , look me up in LinkdIn and feel free to reach out. Good luck. Patrick Haley

Advisor

Huet Sampson Philadelphia, PA

Hello Keesha,
With your background you should be encouraged. When I left the Army, I moved back to Florida. I live in Philadelphia now and have been for the past 25 years. I learned basic electronics in the Army but wasn't able to use those skill where I lived in Fla. In Philly I was able to thrive because of the vast difference in opportunities. As far as criminal justice goes, you can't go wrong in Philly. And there's also a homeland security branch here. DC isn't that far away from Philly. You may want to think about visiting. Its a large city that has definite need for folks with your background.

Advisor

Cameron Cosgrove San Clemente, CA

Hi Keesha,

There are many opportunities in your area of expertise both in public and private sectors.

With a Masters degree the FBI, ATF, DEA, US Customers and Boarder protection, and Secret Service are a logical places to start in the public section. Some large police agencies as well.

Many large multi-National companies have internal security analysis to evaluate threats to their property, assets and employees. For example, all of the news agencies from CNN to ABC, NBC and CBS analyze threats before deciding to send in reporters. The large hotel chains do that same thing.

I would suggest to target your resume to be about your education and military experience and write cover letters aimed at getting you an interview to example in more detail your past experience.

Advisor

Pierre Millet Phoenix, AZ

Good morning, Keesha:

I believe that if you are at least 23 years old, but not older than 36 years old, you can apply to the FBI Citizens' Academy in your state, and later might get the opportunity to be
a Special Agent, because you have a degree in Criminal Justice and worked in intelligence affairs on the Army. Your background it's more important for it. Remember Today's FBI. It's
for you.

Good Luck.

Advisor

Ted Mittelstaedt Portland, OR

Hi Keesha,

You cannot make up for lack of experience in a field. Unfortunately some employers have binders on about this issue and think that experience is the most important quality in a job applicant. I can tell you from my own experience in hiring people over the years that it is not, not by a long shot. I can always train an employee to do what I need them to do but if I hire an employee that isn't trainable then I'm screwed.

The best advice I can tell you is if you are qualified for the jobs your applying for (meaning do you have all required certifications, etc.) then you need to expand your job search to a national level. One of the strongest assets a younger job candidate has is the ability to move anywhere. Older candidates often own homes with mortgages and have kids in school and a spouse that's working and are limited in their ability to look for work. Young unmarried candidates with no kids can really look anywhere in the country and are flexible enough to move and take unusual living arrangements in order to work at those entry level jobs that you gain experience with, but just don't pay a lot. You may have to take a job in a small town far away from family and friends but the experience you gain in your field is irreplaceable.

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