Hi I'll be separating from USAF next year after serving for 12 years. People are saying to just push myself and go for 8 more years and my get retirement but I don't have the energy to do 8 more years. I am just wondering how to translate my military skills into civilian skills? How to prepare for interview? I'm station in South Carolina but I want to work in Texas close to my family, can I do job interviews over the phone with companies? Please advice. Thank you
Answers
Mani,
Your command should also have an ACAP Counselor available to you to provide assistance with resume writing and interview preparation as you prepare to separate. If you haven't looked into that already, do! Their services are invaluable, and I believe they still provide a multi-day class that focuses on exactly the things you're asking about - resumes, interviewing, etc. And yes, most companies will schedule phone interviews with you prior to inviting you in to meet face-to-face. Being in a different state should not be a hindrance to your job search. Best of luck!
With your years of experience I would build a 4-6 page chronological resume with your STAR listed by location from your EPRs. I would then list 2001-2015 USAF as job history and then go to combination resume and bucket your accomplishments based upon what career you have chosen. i.e. logistics list your logistics action/results, then operational action/results, then leadership... Be sure to list numbers so you can pass the SO WHAT test i.e. responsibile for $100 worth of inventory-no result, just action. Good luck
One of the best things is to think of one or two things that you liked best about your military career. Look for things that line up with those good items.
If you were good with dealing other people and liked problem solving then a career in sales is often a good start. Sales are usually the quickest way to get ahead in the market and if you have the ability to explain things well, listen and respond strongly then that is my suggestion.
Mani,
Go pick up this book " Knock 'em Dead 2015: The Ultimate Job Search Guide"
by Martin Yate. You can find it in the library or on Amazon for less the $15.00. I was given that book before I retired from the Marines and it was the greatest gift and piece of advice I have ever received.
I have experience helping people with resumes and getting jobs. Email chrismoorepmp@yahoo.com or call 916.402.2756. Yes, you can interview by phone and should expect the first call will be HR, not the hiring manager.
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