Career Exploration

Exploring different career options can help you find a path that aligns with your interests, skills, and values. At Mission to Commission, we provide a range of resources and guidance to support your career exploration journey. Here are some important steps and tools to help you navigate this process:

Steps for Effective Career Exploration

  • Start Early: Begin your career exploration well before your transition from the military. Early planning allows for a smoother transition and more time to explore various options.
  • Interest Assessments: Take assessments to identify your interests, strengths, and preferences. These assessments can provide valuable insights into potential career paths. Understanding your interests and strengths can help you make more informed career decisions.
  • Career Counseling: Seek guidance from career counselors to explore different career paths. Career counselors can provide expert advice and help you navigate your options. Working with a counselor can help you develop a clear and achievable career plan.
  • Job Shadowing: Participate in job shadowing opportunities to gain insight into various roles. Job shadowing can provide a real-world perspective on different careers. Observing professionals in their daily work can help you determine if a particular field is a good fit for you.
  • Internships: Consider internships to gain experience and make industry connections. Internships can provide hands-on experience and help you build your resume. Interning in your desired field can also lead to job offers and valuable professional relationships.
  • Industry Research: Research different industries to understand their job prospects and growth potential. Knowing which industries are growing can help you target your job search. Industry research can also help you identify companies and roles that align with your career goals.
  • Company Visits: Arrange visits to companies to learn about their work environment and opportunities. Visiting companies can provide a firsthand look at their culture and operations. Company visits can also give you the opportunity to network with employees and learn about job openings.
  • Networking: Connect with professionals in fields you are interested in to gain insights and advice. Networking can provide valuable information and job leads. Building relationships with industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities.
  • Online Resources: Utilize online resources to explore different careers and their requirements. Websites and online tools can provide detailed information about various career paths. Researching online can help you gather information at your own pace and convenience.
  • Career Fairs: Attend career fairs to meet potential employers and learn about job openings. Career fairs can provide direct access to recruiters and hiring managers. Preparing for career fairs can help you make a strong impression and gather valuable information.
  • Workshops: Participate in workshops and seminars to expand your knowledge and skills in specific areas. Workshops can provide targeted training and professional development. Attending workshops can also offer networking opportunities and industry insights.

Tools and Resources for Career Exploration

  • O*NET OnLine: This tool provides detailed descriptions of the world of work for use by job seekers, workforce development and HR professionals, students, researchers, and more. It is an excellent resource to learn about different job roles and industries.
  • My Next Move: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, this interactive tool is for job seekers and students to learn more about their career options. It includes an interest profiler and a search tool for careers that match your interests and skills.
  • CareerOneStop: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop provides career exploration tools, including a career interest assessment, skills matcher, and career profiles.
  • LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to research companies, industries, and career paths. Connect with professionals in your desired field and join relevant groups. Take advantage of LinkedIn Learning to gain new skills and certifications.
  • VA Careers and Employment Resources: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers resources and support for veterans exploring new careers. This includes information on education and training programs, as well as job search assistance.
  • Industry Associations: Many industries have professional associations that provide career resources, networking opportunities, and job boards. Joining an industry association can provide valuable insights and connections.
  • Job Search Engines: Use job search engines like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster to explore job openings in different industries and locations. These platforms often provide company reviews, salary information, and other helpful details.
  • Career Coaching Programs: Consider enrolling in career coaching programs specifically designed for veterans. These programs can provide personalized guidance and support as you explore different career options.

Making the Most of Career Exploration

  • Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve through your career exploration. Setting clear goals can help you stay focused and motivated.
  • Be Open-Minded: Stay open to exploring a variety of career paths and industries. Sometimes the best opportunities come from unexpected places.
  • Seek Feedback: Get feedback from mentors, career counselors, and professionals in your field of interest. Constructive feedback can help you refine your career exploration strategy.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends and job market changes. Staying informed can help you identify new opportunities and make better career decisions.
  • Take Action: Actively engage in career exploration activities. Attend events, network with professionals, and take advantage of available resources.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Transitioning to a civilian career can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some common challenges and tips for overcoming them:

  • Translating Military Skills: One of the biggest challenges is translating military skills into civilian language. Utilize skills translation tools and seek assistance from career counselors to effectively communicate your experience to potential employers.
  • Adjusting to Civilian Culture: The transition from military to civilian workplace culture can be challenging. Take the time to understand the norms and expectations of civilian workplaces. Participating in networking events and engaging with mentors can help ease this transition.
  • Dealing with Rejection: It's common to face rejection during a job search. Stay resilient and keep applying. Use rejection as an opportunity to learn and improve your application materials and interview skills.
  • Managing Expectations: The transition may not always go as planned, and it may take time to find the right job. Be patient and maintain a positive attitude. Focus on long-term goals and keep working towards them.
  • Building a Civilian Network: Your military network may not always be applicable in civilian sectors. Make a concerted effort to build a network within your desired industry. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with people on LinkedIn to expand your network.
  • Understanding Compensation Packages: Civilian compensation packages can be different from military benefits. Learn how to evaluate salary, health benefits, retirement plans, and other perks. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about job offers.
  • Updating Technical Skills: Some fields require specific technical skills that may not have been part of your military training. Consider taking courses or earning certifications in areas like IT, cybersecurity, or project management. Keeping your skills up to date can make you more competitive in the job market.
  • Maintaining a Professional Image: Ensure your resume, LinkedIn profile, and other professional documents are polished and up to date. Regularly updating these documents and seeking feedback from mentors or career coaches can ensure they reflect your current skills and experiences accurately.
  • Balancing Work and Personal Life: Transitioning to a civilian job often means balancing work with personal life in a new way. Prioritize finding a job that supports work-life balance to ensure a smooth transition. Understanding company cultures and their approach to work-life balance can help you choose the right employer.
  • Seeking Continuous Learning: The civilian job market values continuous learning and development. Stay engaged in professional development by attending workshops, earning certifications, and seeking out new learning opportunities. Committing to lifelong learning can enhance your career prospects and help you stay competitive.

Contact Us

For more information or personalized assistance with career exploration, please contact us at [email protected] or call 877-622-7473. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.