Often, I hear veterans say that they become discouraged in the job hunt. So much so that they believe that this an actual reflection of who they are. It is important to never take the job search personally. Sure we could all learn more skills, have more training, have more degrees, but who you are is not the problem. Here are a few ways to remain positive and getting effective results in the job search process.
Enroll with an Employment Program
Sometimes we all need a little help. Non-profit organizations like U.S.VETS are here to aid you in building your resume, bridging the gap with certifications, and connecting you to employers from the inside. But most all of it is helpful to have a point person to go to bounce ideas off of and to ask questions of. As you may have noticed in life we have to go out and get the opportunities, they don’t just come to us from inside our houses. By plugging into an organization it can also allow you have access to events that will allow you to connect with employers directly and explore your options. You may not know this but employers are looking for you! Ok, maybe not you specifically… but your set of skills. 🙂 So widen your net and get connected into the community.
Schedule Informational Interviews
Did you know you can reach out to employers and ask them questions? Some people are even willing to sit down with you and discuss what it is that you do. This is a great option if you aren’t completely sold on what you want to do and want to learn more or even just want to get your foot in the door. Talking to someone in the inside will give you a lot more ideas of how to work there. (The employees that work at a business usually have the inside scoop.) They may be able to even tell you the ‘what not to do’ things as well that they wish they had done. Either way, always make sure to follow-up and thank them, and also connect with them on LinkedIn if you hadn’t already. Lastly make sure you reach out again to let them know you are still looking and if they have anything that would be a good fit. People are more likely to help people they have met, not just a name through a computer.
Remember, who you are is not the problem. You just need to get out there and catch one of the million possibilities right in front of you. You can do this through getting help with a non-profit or even going directly to the companies themselves to ask questions. The key is to be consistent and be bold while improving your skills. We are here for you!
-Denise Berry
