Finding success begins with taking that first step. When transitioning out of the military and shifting your focus to finding meaningful employment in the private sector, having someone assist you in “learning the ropes” is a major advantage. As companies fill vacant positions in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, catching a hiring manager’s attention with a well-polished resume will help you get your foot in the door. However, there are a plethora of steps you must first take to get to this stage.
American Corporate Partners (ACP) is a national nonprofit organization focused on helping veterans, transitioning military members and active-duty military spouses find their next career. Working with a mentor through a yearlong customized mentorship program during your transition can help you figure out where you could be successful, and how to find the job description that works for you at companies in a variety of industries. Mentors can help you evaluate the skills you developed in the military, translate your military experiences into terms civilian hiring managers will understand and assist you in tailoring your search to find jobs that are the right fit and something you’d be qualified for.
Your first job outside of the military presents the opportunity to reinvent yourself. You have the ability to play to your strengths that were gained through military service, obtain higher education, or launch yourself into a new industry you always wished you were a part of. No matter which direction you take, terms, skills, rank and a variety of other factors do not easily translate into civilian language. One such example is the MOS: frequently used in the military to outline a soldier or Marine’s job specialty, this term might lose its value when presented in a cover letter or on a resume. A mentor has the ability to assist you in making your titles, achievements and skills properly reflect what you will bring to the table in an application. An ACP mentor is an experienced professional in the field that you wish to go into. They have climbed the company ladder and effectively leveraged their education to its fullest. Their firsthand account of the specific hiring process, which college credits truly matter in the industry and areas within the industry that are growing, is vital insight that anyone can truly benefit from.
Often in America and with international companies, the existing job opportunities are far more wide ranging than what most people believe. Whirlpool and General Motors are more than manufacturing companies, just like FedEx and UPS are not solely involved in logistics. Mentors from these major corporations are also heavily involved in their IT development, HR departments, sales team and other vital arms of their company. An ACP mentor has the ability to help you pull back the curtain and see what opportunities exist at these fantastic companies. This further expands the opportunity for you, the worker, to live in the region of the country that you desire, contribute to a company that shares your values and allows you to find meaningful employment.
With the economy expanding and employment opportunities increasing, it isn’t just about getting hired, but beginning this second stage of your life on the right path. Whether you’re still serving, have recently transitioned or have been out of the military for some time, there isn’t a better opportunity than to learn from a seasoned mentor. Help us serve you and apply now. An ACP employee will contact you in less than 24 hours and begin the process to help you truly succeed in your professional development and job search. Everyone, no matter their background, education or title, can benefit from a one-on-one mentorship.
For more information, visit acp-usa.org