How did you get your job?
I support the development and execution of sales and brand strategies, while providing coaching and mentoring to a team of AstraZeneca pharmaceutical sales specialists in the southeast corridor of Florida (Miami District).
What surprised you about the civilian workforce?
Military life is very regimented – everyone knows their rank, and your path toward a higher rank is rather straight and carved out for you in advance. In the civilian workforce, this is more of a gray area. There are a number of different paths you can take to achieve upward mobility, and you control which way you turn. Sometimes you might even have to make a lateral move and dive into an area where you’re less comfortable in order to get to the place you want to be.
Best advice for military job seekers?
Finish college. Try to enhance your skill set as much as possible to make yourself more marketable. Work with a professional that understands how to build a résumé and hone interviewing skills. Most importantly, take chances … don’t assume that you’re obligated to work in an industry that is similar to what you did in the military. Many employers are willing to train and provide new opportunities to those that served.