During the BFRS event, keynote speaker Col Richard Kemp CBE raised the issue of the transition from military to civilian life.
He said: “In my experience since leaving the Army, most former service people tend to very much undersell themselves. It is really important that they recognise the impressive range of skills and experience they have acquired in their military service so that they can market themselves to employers.”
Gemini has a wealth of experience, helping transitioning military personnel. We echo Richards’s comments and feel Service people do undersell themselves, there are a number reasons for this for this.
Knowledge and understanding of civilian sectors
Preparation time is paramount; you need to prepare at least 18-24 months in advance. You can never conduct enough research on industry trends, qualifications/experience needed etc. Create a time line and set objectives.
Insufficient support and advice
There are a number of organisations out there willing to help service leavers (Gemini Forces, Civvy Street, CTP). Establish your network with those who have already gone through their transition (friends, their friends, colleagues) Use social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn etc.
CV
Start Building your CV, you should be able to write about 4-5 pages on your key skills, qualifications, achievements, career history etc. You need to adapt your CV and base it completely around each job. This should be no longer than 2 pages unless it’s a technical position. Don’t pay to have your CV written, there are enough ex-military personnel willing to help and advise.
Compromise
We would all like the perfect job (location, Salary, the job role); 8 times out 10 the job will not tick every box. You should be willing to compromise on they Salary when leaving the forces, if you maintain your standards it should not take to long to prove your worth and get that salary you desire.
Do transitioning service people undersell themselves?
We feel service people do undersell themselves. Did you undersell yourself, and what advice can you offer those about to make that transition?
Col Richard Kemp CBE