10 Tips to Get Back to Work After a Long Absence
The above picture is of 2 men shaking hands. One of the men is a veteran in uniform.
10 Tips to Get Back to Work After a Long Absence
When you sign up for the
service, you don't think much about what comes after. You're consumed by the
excitement of standing up for your country and the friends and family that you
love.
But, no matter how
careful people are, many veterans return from military service
with an injury or disability that challenges their current lifestyle. Trying to
figure out how to get back to work once you have been injured can be very
difficult.
But, it is possible.
With the right resume and attitude, you'll be able to build the career of your
dreams. The journey to your new future starts with taking the first step. Learn
how to get back to work here.
1. Avoid Common Resume Mistakes
When you're a disabled
veteran who has a primarily athletic military career, it may be difficult to
know what to list on your resume. After all, you can no longer complete many of
the most physical tasks.
But there are so many
other aspects that go into any job. The key is focusing on the parts of the job
that you can still do. You can learn more
about common resume mistakes here.
2. Let Everyone Know That You're Working
If you have been out of
the workforce for a long time, then many of the friends and family members who
would help you find a job may not know that you are looking. When you're ready
to transition to a job in the civilian work, reach out and let people know what
you're doing.
Call up your contacts
from while you were in the service as well as the teachers and mentors that you
had before the service. You never know where your next job is going to come
from.
3. Prepare a Good Pitch
When you go into a job
interview, you're selling yourself to that company. You have to demonstrate to
them that you are capable of doing the work that they need.
Try to come up with a
sales pitch for yourself that allows you to demonstrate to a company how your
skills could add value. Then, present this pitch to some of your friends and
have them ask you follow-up questions so that you can work through any of the
sore spots before it's showtime.
4. Take Some Classes to Increase Your Skill Set
In today's world, there
are a ton of different ways to learn a new skill. You can take a class in
college, pick up a course online, or venture into a classroom in your city to
learn with a group of random individuals.
Whatever way you choose
to learn, just make sure you're expanding your skill set. Take classes in
things that will reshape your vision and priorities so that you can head
confidently in your new direction.
5. Consider a Part-Time Opportunity
You may not be able to
make full-time money doing the job of your dreams, but if you start off with
part-time work, you can always work your way up.
Many ex-military members
hesitate to take part-time work since they are used to the stable security of a
consistent paycheck that can support their family. But remember, your career is
a journey and if you want to be in a competitive field, it's better to be at
the first spot on the board than not even starting at all.
Try to avoid the
temptation to take a job you hate just to earn enough hours. Part-time work is
a temporary solution that can help you bridge the gap.
6. Mentally Prepare for the Job Hunt Process
The job hunt process can
be a long and stressful one for many people. But,
you only need one company to tell you yes in order to be successful.
Take time during the
process to check in with yourself and restore your energy levels. Take the time
to worry about your mental health and work through the challenges of the job hunt
with confidence and grace.
7. Get Involved With Professional Circles
There are many different
professional groups that will allow you to sign up and become a member. These
groups give you access to happy hour events, networking socials, and conventions
that will allow you to meet people who are interested in the same field of work
as you.
By getting involved with
a group of people, you will be more likely to come across opportunities in your
industry and hear about jobs before they're officially posted giving you a
better chance at having your resume stick out.
8. Get a Survival Job for the Interim
If you have a ton of
pressure to make a paycheck immediately, then go ahead and hunt for an interim
job that pays well. That way, you will be more able to calmly focus on your
true job hunt. If you seem desperate for a job, it can come off poorly to
potential employers.
9. Consider Approaching a Business That Hires Veterans
There are many
businesses who understand the struggle of trying to transition from the
military world to the civilian one. Try to reach out to one of these businesses
to see if they have any opportunities.
If they don't have
anything available now, check back again soon. New doors are opening every day.
10. Start Your Own Business
Working for yourself is
the ultimate freedom. You don't have to convince anyone of your vision except
for you, that is until you go to sell something.
Consider starting your
own business doing something you love. Consider what your hobbies are and the
ways that you could make money off of them.
Get Back to Work
When you leave the
military on disability, the idea of getting back to work may not occur get back
to work
Check out our listings
of jobs for disabled veterans to help you find a position that
works for your pocketbook and lifestyle.