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How do you translate military skills to an opposite civilian career?

Veteran

Amanda Kloepfer Rockford, IL

My time in the military was short when I was involved in a car crash with a school bus. I trained in the military as an MP. However due to the injuries sustained I was forced to switch my career to Accounting, a desk job. I know many of the soft skills transfer between careers but is there anything that I am missing?

21 May 2020 4 replies Career Exploration

Answers

Advisor

William Russell Huntsville, AL

Amanda,

I found this site extremely helpful in translating my skills from the Navy to the civilian side.
https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/

21 May 2020 Helpful answer

Advisor

Denton Poe Fort Worth, TX

First and foremost Amanda, thank you for your service. To answer your question, I think it is best to evaluate what skills you are speaking of, and how they are applicable to the position you are applying. There are a great many skills we learn in the military such as loyalty, duty, respect, etc. The key is to focus on the ones that enhance your abilities to do the position, while showing you are a well-rounded candidate.

21 May 2020 Helpful answer

Advisor

Deb Yeagle Tampa, FL

Hi Amanda-
Thanks for your service!
I have a couple other resources for you to check out to help with your skills translation:

(1) Military.com’s Military Skills Translator
https://www.military.com/veteran-jobs/skills-translator

(2) My Next Move’s online tool.
https://www.mynextmove.org/vets/

Always remember to follow your passion, and you will find your life's work.
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." —Confucius
Good luck!
Deb

Veteran

Amanda Kloepfer Rockford, IL

Thank you to you both.

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