TAP EFCT Participant Guide

U.S.
Department of Labor
Employment
Fundamentals of
Career Transition
(EFCT)
Participant Guide
January 2021 Edition

Employment Fundamentals of Career Transition Participant Guide
Table of Content
Section 1 Getting Started .......................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Objectives...................................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 Course Overview ........................................................................................................................... 6
1.3 Prerequisites ................................................................................................................................. 7
1.4 Career Transition Timeline ............................................................................................................ 8
1.5 Activity: Where Are You Now?...................................................................................................... 9
Section 2 Planning Your Next Steps ........................................................................................................ 11
2.1 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Career............................................................................. 11
2.2 Labor Market Research ............................................................................................................... 13
2.3 Activity: Use Labor Market Research to Research Occupations & Identify Requirements ........ 15
2.4 Activity: Identify the Occupation Outlook & Salary Range ......................................................... 17
2.5 Activity: Final Analysis ................................................................................................................. 19
2.6 Additional Transition Workshops ............................................................................................... 20
2.7 Getting Help at the American Job Center (AJC) .......................................................................... 21
2.8 Activity: Access the AJC Online ................................................................................................... 22
Section 3 Preparing for Success .............................................................................................................. 24
3.1 “Think Like an Employer” ............................................................................................................ 26
3.2 Adjustment to the Workplace..................................................................................................... 26
3.3 Translating Military Terminology into Civilian Terms ................................................................. 29
3.4 Employment History Outline ...................................................................................................... 31
3.5 Activity: Create Your Employment History Outline .................................................................... 31
3.6 Resumes ...................................................................................................................................... 32
3.7 Create a Resume that Stands Out with the STAR Method ......................................................... 35
3.8 What is the STAR Method? ......................................................................................................... 35
3.9 Putting STAR into Practice .......................................................................................................... 35
3.10 Activity: Creating an Achievement Statement using the STAR Method ................................... 37
3.11 Professional Introduction............................................................................................................ 38
3.12 Activity: Draft Your Professional Introduction ............................................................................ 39
3.13 Networking.................................................................................................................................. 42
3.14 Activity: Identify Your Network Contacts.................................................................................... 42
3.15 Expanding Your Network to Online Networking ......................................................................... 44
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3.16 Using LinkedIn ............................................................................................................................. 45

3.17 Effective LinkedIn Profiles ........................................................................................................... 45
3.17.1 Getting Started and Profile Photo....................................................................................... 45
3.17.2 Activity: Create Your Headline ............................................................................................ 46
3.17.3 Activity: Draft Your Summary Statement............................................................................ 46
Section 4 Applying for a Job.................................................................................................................... 52
4.1 How Hiring Occurs....................................................................................................................... 52
4.2 Selecting an Application Method ................................................................................................ 53
4.3 Seeking Out Veteran Ready Employers ...................................................................................... 54
4.4 Activity: Job Search ..................................................................................................................... 54
4.5 Analyze a Job Posting .................................................................................................................. 57
4.6 Activity: Analyze a Job Posting for Keywords & Information ..................................................... 58
4.7 Completing a Job Application ..................................................................................................... 60
4.8 After the Application Process ..................................................................................................... 61
Section 5 Interviewing for a Job ............................................................................................................. 63
5.1 Stages of an Interview ................................................................................................................. 63
5.2 Types of Interview Questions ..................................................................................................... 64
5.3 STAR Method for Interview Questions ....................................................................................... 67
Section 6 Receiving a Job Offer............................................................................................................... 69
6.1 Evaluating a Job Offer ................................................................................................................. 69
Section 7 Communicating Your Decision ................................................................................................ 71
7.1 Negotiating Job Offers ................................................................................................................ 72
7.2 How to Negotiate ........................................................................................................................ 73
7.3 Negotiation Outcome ................................................................................................................. 74
Section 8 Summing It Up......................................................................................................................... 76
Section 9 Appendix ................................................................................................................................. 78
9.1 Practice Answering Interview Questions .................................................................................... 78
9.2 Example Chronological Resume .................................................................................................. 79
9.3 Example Combination Resume .................................................................................................. 80
9.4 Website Guide............................................................................................................................. 81
3
Getting Started
4
Section 1 Getting Started

Thank you for your service, and congratulations on embarking on the next phase of your career!
The purpose of this course is to provide you with the essential tools and resources you need to evaluate
career options, gain information for employment, and understand the fundamentals of the employment
process.
1.1 Objectives
Upon completion of this training, you will have learned how to:
• Conduct occupational research and job search for

selected careers.
• Complete the Labor Market Information Analysis.
• Understand the civilian work environment.
• Use the STAR method to write achievement statements.
• Recognize the basic sections of a resume.
• Draft an employment history outline.
• Draft a professional introduction to use for networking.
• Identify your network contacts.
• Draft a headline and summary for your LinkedIn profile.
• Analyze a job vacancy posting.
• Connect your skills and abilities with the needs of an employer.
• Identify the relevant factors in evaluating a job offer.
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1.2 Course Overview

In this training, we will discuss the fundamentals of the
employment process, which is explained in the six stages below.
The table below shows a breakdown of each stage, including the

focus, topics, and activities that we will cover in each lesson.
Employment Process Stage Stage Focus Topics & Activities
1. Plan your next steps. What do you want to do • Factors to consider when selecting a
next? career
• Labor market research
• Activity: Career research
• Additional workshops
• Activity: Getting help at your
American Job Center
2. Prepare for success. What documents and • Adjusting to the civilian workplace
items do you need to • Translating military terminology
prepare for the into civilian terms
employment process? • Employment history outline
• Activity: Start your employment
history outline
• Basics of a resume
• Activity: Write a STAR achievement
statement
• Professional introduction
• Activity: Draft your professional
introduction
• Networking
• Activity: Identify your network
contacts
• Online networking
• Activity: Create a LinkedIn profile
and draft your headline and
summary statement
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Employment Process Stage Stage Focus Topics & Activities
3. Apply for a job. How do you make your • How hiring occurs
application stand out • Selecting an application method
from the crowd? • Seeking out Veteran-Ready
employers
• Activity: Search for a job
• Analyzing a job posting
• Activity: Analyze job posting for
keywords and information
• Tips for completing an employment
application
• Follow up on job application
4. Interview for a job. How will you • Stages of an interview

demonstrate your value • Types of questions
to an employer?
5. Receive a job offer. What do you need to do • Know the terms of an offer
after you get the job • Activity: Evaluate the job offer
offer?
6. Communicate your decision. How do you inform the • Informing employer of your decision
employer of your • Negotiating job offers
decision?
1.3 Prerequisites
The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) curriculum
is an outcome-based, modular curriculum with
standardized learning objectives.
The modules you have completed during your

Service’s Transition Day (Managing Your Transition,
Military Occupational Code [MOC] Crosswalk, and
Financial Planning for Transition) will assist you
during the DOLEW.
Bring the following items to class each day:
• Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET)

• Performance evaluations (to help you develop STAR statements)
• Military and college transcripts
• MOC Crosswalk Gap Analysis
• Laptop or notebook as required by the installation.
7
1.4 Career Transition Timeline

This Participant’s Guide complements the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) curriculum by providing
you with access to tools and best practices that will help you transition from military service to a civilian
career. The curriculum’s Career Transition Timeline is below. This timeline provides specific guidelines
and timeframes to manage and navigate your journey toward a new career path.
Career Transition Timeline

18 to 24 Months Before 12 to 18 Months Before 6 to 12 Months 0 to 6 Months Before
Timetable
Transition Transition Before Transition Transition
Primary Assessment and Career Engagement
Preparation Activities Transition
Activities Exploration Activities
• Meet with local TAP • If separating/ • Begin & refine job • Attend career fairs
Counselor transitioning, search • Connect with an
• Complete self- schedule/attend • Complete targeted American Job
assessment Initial Counseling and resume Center (AJC)
Pre- locally or at post-
• Create a LinkedIn separation/Transition • Sign up for a free
account year of LinkedIn separation
Counseling (can location
• Identify a mentor occur before 365 Premium
days, but no later Subscription • Apply and
• Begin exploring interview for
than 365 days) • Targeted
career options positions
• Register for/attend networking
Description • If retiring, • Continue to
any remaining TAP • Practice
schedule/attend network and stay
workshops interviewing
Initial Counseling and involved on
Pre- • Explore SkillBridge or LinkedIn and
separation/Transition Career Skills other social media
Counseling (can opportunities sites
occur before 365 • Explore other
days, but no later training
than 365 days) opportunities
• Develop an Individual • Create a master
Transition Plan (ITP). resume
Outcome High-Quality Civilian Career
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1.5 Activity: Where Are You Now?

Take a few minutes to complete the following sentences. Be prepared to share your answers with the
group.
1. My current job in the military is…
photographer, editor, producer, leader
2. What I find most rewarding about my job is…
mentoring soldiers, coordinating field video shoots
3. Some of the strengths I’ve developed are…
interpersonal communications, leadership skills
4. After the military, I want to…
Continue to work in the government visual information field
5. One thing I need to learn for my job search is...
creating an effective resume
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Planning Your Next Steps
10
Section 2 Planning Your Next Steps

"What do you want to do next?” is an important question that
you need to be able to answer before you can prepare for the
employment process.
In this section, you will:

 Evaluate your career options using important career
factors and information from the labor market.
 Use this information along with your insights from the
MOC Crosswalk and Financial Planning for Transition
workshop to complete your Gap Analysis.
2.1 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Career

When selecting a career, think about the following factors:
Interests Pursue something you’re truly interested in. If you don’t like working with sick
people, don’t be pressured into becoming a nurse just because there is a high
demand for nurses.
Values As you plan for your future career, make a list of your top priorities to ensure
this career matches up. How will you achieve a work-life balance? Is having
weekends off important?
Work Style Everyone has their own unique work style. Some enjoy deadlines and structure
while others thrive with little guidance or management. Make sure the career
path you choose provides you with an environment you can thrive in.
Location Is the job in demand where you are going to live, or do you need to relocate?
When contemplating relocation, strongly consider housing availability,
associated moving costs, cost of living, and family adjustment. Plan carefully to
ensure you can work where you want to live.
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The Market Research the labor job market to ensure the career you are pursuing has
demand in your area and to determine what education or training is required.
Research the salary ranges, industry trends, and growth potential.
Education & Training Select a career that is a high-quality civilian career where you can utilize your
(High-quality Civilian knowledge, skills, and abilities in an occupation that supports your values
Career) while earning a substantive wage. An investment in higher education or a
training program can help you secure a high-quality civilian career. According
to the DOL’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with an associate degree,
on average, earn 18% more than their counterparts with high school
diplomas. Likewise, an individual with a bachelor’s degree, on average, earns
64% more. Individuals who complete a Registered Apprenticeship Program,
on average, earn 84% more than those with only a high school diploma.
Skills Consider the skills necessary for the career you select. Do you already have
these skills? Are there skills you need to develop in order to be a competitive
candidate in that field?
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2.2 Labor Market Research

The labor market information is an
invaluable resource that you can use to
answer important questions, including:
• Which industries employ people

in this occupation?
• Where, geographically, will I be
able to find a job?
• Will there be opportunities in the
field, I am considering after I
complete the required training
or education?
• How much will I earn?
This section will guide you through an understanding of leading trends by industry, growing careers
within these industries, and the relationship between industries/careers and specific locations.
Here are a few key terms:
Labor Supply The availability of suitable employees willing to work at a given wage
Labor Demand The need for employees to work in a particular market at a prevailing wage
Labor Market The supply and demand for labor, in which employees provide the supply
and employers the demand—They depend on the exchange of information
between employers and job seekers about wage rates, conditions of
employment, level of competition, and job location
Labor Market Information about a career that states its demand in an area, what
Information (LMI) education and trainings are needed, salary rates, industry trend, and
growth potential
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Useful Terms to Understand
In addition to the terms above, occupation, industry, job, and career are useful terms to understand.
They are often used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions between them.
Key Term Definition Example
Occupation Type of work, including the associated Registered Nurse (RN)

tasks, education, and training
Industry A collection of companies and Healthcare, Education, Sales,

organizations connected by producing a Business
product or service
Job A specific position in which a worker is Emergency Room (ER) Nurse
paid by an employer to perform work
Career A full history of jobs (paid or voluntary), ER, Pediatrics, Patient

related education, training, and Education, Nurse
professional memberships; spans your Management
lifetime and includes progression and
contributions to a field
To put it simply: your occupation is what you do,

and your industry is where you do it. A job is a
specific position, and your career is your work
history within a position or industry.
Example: Receptionist is an occupation that can be

found in many industries, such as healthcare,
manufacturing, or financial services. These
industries also employ people in other occupations
like medical coding, software development,
network administration, food service, social work,
and logistics. There are many jobs available within
each of these occupations that you might enjoy.
After a few years on the job, you might

decide to continue your career in management.
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2.3 Activity: Use Labor Market Research to Research Occupations & Identify
Requirements
Since the labor market is a big determining factor in your career decision-making process, this activity
will help you narrow down a career that meets your goals.
STEP ACTION
1 Use your results from the interest assessment taken during the MOC workshop and select one
occupation to research.
2 Access My Next Move for Vets online

at www.mynextmove.org/vets/.
3 Type the title of the chosen

occupation into the search box.
4 Click Search.
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STEP ACTION
5 From the list of search results that

appears, select the career title you
are interested in.
6 View all the information provided for

the occupation in each section:
knowledge, skills, abilities,
personality, technology, education,
job outlook, and related positions.
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2.4 Activity: Identify the Occupation Outlook & Salary Range
STEP ACTION
1 Scroll to the Job Outlook section at the

bottom of the occupational details page
shown in Step 6 above (on the
www.mynextmove.org/vets website).
2 Determine the job outlook and salary To determine the To determine the
based on your current or desired state outlook, click local salary, click
working location. Check Out My State. Local Salary Info.
3 On the next page, complete the

Location, Salary, Job Outlook, and Final
Analysis sections on the Labor Market
Information Analysis form.
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Labor Market Information Analysis

After completing the Gap Analysis from your MOC Crosswalk workshop, complete the
Labor Market Information (LMI) for the civilian occupation using My Next Move for Veterans.
Location:
What is your preferred geographic location
of relocation (city/state)?
Salary:
What is the salary range for this occupation?
What is the salary range for this occupation
in my preferred location (city/state)?
Does the salary range fit my requirements?
Job Outlook:
What is the outlook for this occupation in Above average
your preferred state?
What geographic locations (city/state) has a
better outlook?
Which location(s) (city/state) would you be
willing to relocate to?
Final Analysis:
Based upon your Gap Analysis and Labor
Market Information, is this a good job to
pursue?
List 2 alternative jobs that you can explore to
expand your options.
If needed, repeat Labor Market Information
Analysis with each alternative job.
My Next Steps, based on Gap Analysis and Labor Market Information:
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2.5 Activity: Final Analysis
STEP ACTION
1 Using the Labor Market Information, determine if you want to pursue this occupation.
a. If so, proceed to the next step.
b. If not, repeat the research process using a different occupation.
Based upon your Gap Analysis and Labor

Market Information, is this a good job to
pursue?
List 2 alternative jobs that you can explore to
expand your options.
If needed, repeat Labor Market Information
Analysis with each alternative job.
2 Determine the job outlook and salary based on your current or desired working location.
3 Complete the Location, Salary, Job Outlook, and Final Analysis sections.
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2.6 Additional Transition Workshops

The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) offers the following additional, two-day workshops to assist
you in your transition:
DOL Employment Managing Your (MY) Career and Credential Boots to Business (B2B)
Workshop (DOL EW) Education Exploration (C2E) Entrepreneurship
A comprehensive A workshop for those A workshop that offers a Workshop
workshop that covers who are interested in unique opportunity for A workshop for those
emerging best pursuing higher both participants and pursuing self-
practices in career education. Participants spouses to complete a employments in the
employment, will learn the vocabulary personalized career private or nonprofit
including in-depth of higher education, development sectors. Participants will
training to learn identify a potential assessment of receive information on the
interview skills, build career and degree, occupational interest benefits and challenges of
effective resumes, explore the factors for and ability. This entrepreneurship and the
and use emerging choosing a quality industry-standard steps required for
technology to institution, research the assessment will present business ownership
network and search requirements for participants with a through the Small
for employment. admission, explore variety of tailored job Business Administration
funding options, and recommendations (SBA). After completing
compare two institutions (some of which are the Entrepreneurship
of higher education. classified as high- workshop, participants will
demand or high-growth have the opportunity to
occupations) that align enroll in follow-up
with their interests and entrepreneurship
aptitudes. Participants development courses for
will also be guided conducting market
through a variety of research, completing a
career considerations, business plan, and
including labor market connecting with a
projections, education, successful business
apprenticeships, mentor to assist with the
certifications, and business start-up process.
licensure requirements.
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2.7 Getting Help at the American Job Center

(AJC)
You can gather a lot of information on websites, but there
is no substitute for connecting in-person with industry
leaders, employers, fellow job seekers, and local labor
market experts. American Job Centers (AJC) serve nearly a
million Veterans each year.
AJCs are known by a lot of different names depending on the state, such as WorkSource, Workforce
Office, Employment Service, etc. No matter the name, the AJCs provide free help to job seekers for a
variety of career and employment-related needs. Nearly 2,400 AJCs, funded by the U.S. Department of
Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, are located throughout the United States. Veterans
receive priority of service at AJCs.
AJCs have experienced career counselors on staff that work with job seekers to identify their interests,
assess their skills and abilities, and advise them on in-demand jobs and potential training opportunities.
Many AJCs also offer recruiting events, workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search
activities.
There are two types of AJCs, comprehensive and affiliate. You will notice the different services offered
at each type when you find your local AJC in the next activity.
Comprehensive AJCs offer free access to a resource room which includes computers with internet,
telephones, and fax machines. These rooms are open to the public on a self-service basis. Staff are
typically available to assist job seekers with building a resume, general career exploration, and job
search.
You should connect with the AJC in your local or desired work area to receive direct access to local
employers and local labor market information, as well as access to free technology courses and local,
state, and federal programs that may help you.
When you enter your location to find your closest AJC, you’ll find up-to-date messages about local office
closures or virtual assistance. If you need to file for unemployment insurance, please visit the
Unemployment Benefits Finder.
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2.8 Activity: Access the AJC Online
STEP ACTION
1 Access your AJC online

at
www.veterans.gov/.
2 Click FIND A JOB.
3 Click GET ONE-ON-

ONE ASSISTANCE.
4 Type in your city AND

state or zip code in
the Location box and
click Search.
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Preparing for Success
23
Section 3 Preparing for Success

Your next steps may be to pursue an education for your new career, but
you may still need to work while you progress toward your goals. Your first
job after the military may be your first steppingstone toward achieving
your goal, or your goal might change over time.
This section will provide you with the skills and documents you need to
apply for a job. You will learn how to:
 Adjust to the civilian workplace.  Draft your professional introduction.

 Create an employment history outline.  Network.
 Identify the basic sections of a resume.  Create an effective LinkedIn profile.
Let’s take a short quiz over some of your ideas about the employment process.
Read each statement and indicate whether it is true or false. True False
1. Given two qualified job applicants, employers will usually hire a Veteran over a non-Veteran.
2. The same job you had in the service will pay up to twice as much in the private industry.
3. Military skills transfer to civilian jobs without additional training.
4. Civilian employers believe that members of the military do not deal with profit and loss.
5. Most employers have had enough military experience to be able to understand military language.
6. Most employers are skilled at selecting new employees.
7. You may have to overcome an employer’s negative reaction to Veterans to get a job.
8. Veterans must build a network of job contacts as part of their job search.
9. Collecting unemployment compensation can hurt your pride and self-respect.
10. After military service, you may have to take a lower-level job than someone of your age who has
not been in the service.
11. A good resume will get you a job.
12. In a job interview, you should always address the interviewer as “sir” or “ma’am,” just as you would
in the military.
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Notes
25
3.1 “Think Like an Employer”

The most effective strategy you can adopt in your job search is to not think
like a job seeker, but like an employer. You can apply this employer-focused
mindset to every aspect of your search, from writing your resume to
networking, interviewing, and negotiating. By taking the time to
understand the employer side of the hiring process, you will have an edge
over your competition.
3.2 Adjustment to the Workplace

Transitioning to civilian work life may bring many challenges and new opportunities to you and your
family. The following topics contain details on some of those challenges as well as related definitions.
Cultural Expectations
Every organization has its own culture

and processes that you will have to
become familiar with to be successful
in that organization. Just like each of
the Armed Forces has its own distinct
culture, so too does every company,
public agency, or nonprofit
organization. When you joined the
military, much of your initial training
indoctrinated you to military culture
and rules.
Similarly, civilian organizations have

cultural norms, expectations, and rules
as well, but it is unlikely that a description of those unwritten rules and expectations will be included in
your new employee orientation. It is incumbent on you to watch and learn the organizational dynamics
and recognize the culture and rules that are at play in your new environment. It may take time and
effort to fit in to the culture of a new civilian workplace, but you can do it.
26
The chart below lists some important differences between military and civilian workplace cultures.
• Clear pathway to promotion and • Unclear pathway to promotion

advancement. and advancement.
• Periodic pay raises. • Periodic pay raises are rare.
• Clear structure in chains of • Vague structure in chains of

command. command.
• Formal communication protocols. • No formal communication

protocols.
• Used to giving and receiving • Respect is earned, not given.

respect due to rank title.
• Frequently expected to exercise • Need supervisor’s approval for

initiative. initiative.
• Teamwork is a core element. • Teamwork is desired but not a

core element.
• Rules of conduct and behaviors • Rules of conduct and behaviors

are established. are unwritten.
• Healthcare, legal services, • Need to select and pay for

education programs, and healthcare, legal services,
personal/financial counseling are education programs, and
convenient and free on base. personal/financial counseling.
• Communicate clearly and directly • Communicate to influence

to get point across. rather than command.
• Have strong job security. • Do not have job security.
27
Overcoming Stereotypes
You may have to work to dispel stereotypes that employers—many of whom have had no direct contact
with Service Members or Veterans—may have about you. To address those stereotypes, you should
develop stories you can share during networking conversations and job interviews. The table below
shows some common stereotypes and what you can say to overcome them.
Stereotype Response
“Veterans will not fit into my less formal work Share how you have quickly integrated and
culture.” developed good working relationships with team
members when joining new units.
“Military personnel are rigid and lack creativity.” Share how you have improvised and innovated to
meet unpredictable challenges.
“A veteran's only leadership approach is giving Share how you have motivated, coached, guided,
orders.” and supported team members using a
collaborative leadership style.
“Most veterans have medical issues.” Share a skill, such as resiliency, you developed as
a result of being in the military and a specific time
it helped you overcome a personal setback (NOT
medically related).
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3.3 Translating Military Terminology into Civilian Terms

One of the easiest ways to help employers understand your military experience is to substitute military
terms, titles, ranks, and acronyms for their civilian equivalents in your professional introduction, cover
letter, resume, and interview. Review and familiarize yourself with all the following examples.
Terms & Acronyms
Military Civilian Equivalents
NCOIC, Watch Captain, Petty Officer Supervisor, Manager, Coordinator

of the Watch
Commander, Chief Division Head, Director, Senior Manager
Executive Officer (XO) Deputy Director, Assistant Manager
Action Officer (AO) Analyst (or Senior Analyst, if applicable)
TDY/TAD Business travel
PCS Relocation, move
OER/NCOER/FitRep Performance appraisal, job evaluation
MOS/MOC/AFSC/Rating/NEC Career field, specialty
Commanded Supervised, directed
Battalion, Unit, Platoon, Wing, Flight Organization, agency, department, group, team
Mission Responsibility, task, objective, job
Combat/War Hazardous conditions, conflict
Headquarters Headquarters, corporate office
Subordinates Employees, coworkers, direct reports
Service Members Employees, coworkers, colleagues, personnel, individuals
Military Personnel Office (MILPO) & Personnel office, Human Resources

Personnel Action Center (PAC)
Regulations Guidance, policy, instructions
Reconnaissance Data collection, survey, analysis
Cyber warfare Information security
Logistic Specialist Supply Chain Administrator
Recruiter, Personnel Services Human Resources

Specialist, Career Counselor
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Job Titles
Rather than focusing on military titles (Captain, Major, Sergeant), focus more on communicating the
functional area of the job title (Communications Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, Nurse).
Do your research before trying to translate military titles into an exact civilian equivalent. The role of
Senior Advisor, Deputy Director, or Chief Executive Officer can mean very different things in the civilian
workplace, depending on the nature of the organization or company. You don’t want to inadvertently
overinflate your experience level and be perceived as dishonest.
The following table contains a few examples.

Senior Field Grade Officer (O5-O7) Chief Executing Officer (CEO), Director, Chief Operating
Officer (COO), Deputy Chief Administrator
Field Grade Officer (O4) Executive Officer, Deputy Director, Assistant to the Director,
Operations Manager
Company Grade Officer (O1-O3) Operations Officer, Program Administrator, Supervisor
Warrant Officer Technical Manager, Specialist, Department Manager
Senior NCOs First-line Supervisor
Sergeant Major, Master Chief Petty Officer, Senior Advisor
Master Gunnery Sergeant, Chief Master Sergeant
First Sergeant, Chief/Senior Chief Petty Officer Personnel Supervisor, Division Manager
Squad Leader Team Leader, Team Chief
Supply Sergeant Supply Manager, Logistics Manager
Operations NCO Operations Supervisor
Platoon Sergeant Supervisor, Instructor, Trainer
Education
Make your classroom achievements easy to understand by describing your military education in civilian
terms, as demonstrated in the table below.

Basic Training Basic Skills Course
Advanced Individual Training (AIT) Advanced Skills Course (mention career field)
Warrior Leader Course (WLC) Basic Leadership Development Course
Advanced Leader Course (ALC) Advanced Leadership and Management Development Course
Senior Leader Course (SLC) Senior-level Leadership, Technical, and Management Course
Officer Career Course Junior Officer Training Course
Combined Arms Staff College Senior Managerial Leadership School
Command and Staff College Senior Leaders Program
War College Executive Leadership School
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3.4 Employment History Outline

The first document you will prepare is your employment history outline,
which is a comprehensive list of all your job titles, duties, employers, and
employment dates. The outline will help you determine the most effective
way to discuss your work history, create your professional introduction, write
your resume, and fill out job applications.
If you need assistance remembering dates, job titles, etc., refer to your VMET
or other military documentation. Once you have the preliminary information,
you can go back and write down your job duties later.
3.5 Activity: Create Your Employment History Outline

Start by filling out your current or most recent employer’s name and location, your job title, start date,
and completion date. Be sure to include paid and unpaid positions as well, such as volunteer work.
1. Employer Name & Location:

US Army Recruiting Command
Job Title: Date:
Producer
Network Enterprise Technology Command
Job Title: Date:
Inspector General
55th Signal Company (Combat Camera)
Job Title: Date:
Visual Information Supervisor and Trainer
55th Signal Company
Job Title: Date:
SHARP Trainer, Victim advocate
White House Communications Agency
Job Title: Date:
Video Director, Lead videographer
55th Signal Company
Job Title: Date:
Visual Information Team Chief.
31
3.6 Resumes
In the employment process, you must have a resume. A resume is a
document that quickly shows an employer all your relevant skills and
experience. It is often the first line of contact that you have with a
potential employer and is the employer’s first impression of you.
The goal of a resume is to effectively summarize and highlight your

qualifications in a way that makes the employer want to reach out and
schedule an interview with you.
In this section, you will learn the basic components of a resume and
how to start preparing for the resume writing process.
Types of Resumes
You need two types of resumes: a master resume and a targeted resume.
• A master resume stores all your work experience, accomplishments, degrees, training, and
awards in one document. The master resume is never given to the employer but used to create
the targeted resume.
• A targeted resume highlights skills and experience that are relevant to a specific position.
Resume Styles
There are three styles you can use to organize the information on your resume: chronological,
functional, and combination. In this training, we will focus on the chronological resume style due to its
popularity among employers, but you should be familiar with all three types.
32
Resume Format
Employers often spend less than 30 seconds looking at your resume on the first review. To pass the
initial screening, ensure your resume format is visually appealing and easy for an employer to quickly
scan. There are many resume formats and templates, so find one that works best for you.
Remember, your resume introduces you to a potential employer. Be sure your resume makes an
excellent first impression. Misspellings, inconsistent use of font and type size, and misaligned margins
indicate a lack of attention to detail.
Example of a Basic Chronological Resume: 1. Contact Information

Provide your phone number, email
account, and LinkedIn URL (if
Your Name applicable).
(123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | www.linkedin.com/in/your.name
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS: 2. Summary of Qualifications

Brieflyofsummarize
A dedicated and experienced security professional who balances the necessity whatand
protecting people makes youwith
property qualified
the need
for theof position
to maintain good relationships with customers and the public. Equally capable by listing
working alone or as a off yourofskill
member set.and
a team,
comfortable exercising initiative and solving problems. Use language from the job posting.
o Top secret clearance o Leadership experience o Tech savvy
o Bilingual (English and Spanish) o Adept at conflict resolution o Training skills
EXPERIENCE:
3. Experience
Security Manager, U.S. Marine Corps, 20XX-Present Describe your responsibilities
and achievements in terms of
● Supervise security for $100 million dollars of highly sensitive equipment, inventory items, and correct discrepancies
resulting in zero loss over a three-year period. impact and results. Use
examples,
● Implement new system security plan that led to an increased in lockdown protection but keeppersonnel,
for incarcerated it short.
ensuring the safety of 25 staff and 125 inmates.
Warehouse Supervisor, Micro Chemical, Inc., Akron, OH, 20XX-20XX
● Supervised a crew of 15 in daily operations, including performing evaluations and providing corrective actions
4. Education & Training
resulting in a company record for productivity.
●
List your most recent, relevant
Monitored complex cataloging and ordering systems by implementing a fast-track procurement system decreasing
supply turnaround time by 20%. education, training courses,
certificates, and certifications.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING:
● Security Specialist Training, U.S. Marine Corps, 120 hours

● Transit Safety and Security Program (TSSP) Certificate 5. Honors & Awards
● Associate of Science in Safety and Security Administration,
This is an optional section for you to highlight
University of Akron, Akron, OH, 42 Semester Hours Completed
your honors and awards that are relevant to the
HONORS AND AWARDS: position. They are the first thing to be deleted if
space is an issue. Awards should be personal,
• USMC Good Conduct Medal, 2006
not unit awards. Instead of adding an awards
• National Defense Service Medal, 2003
section, you may include awards under the job
where the award was obtained.
33
Notes
34
3.7 Create a Resume that Stands Out with the STAR Method
To stand out from the crowd, your resume must tell the employer how you have positively impacted
and added value to your employers’ businesses. You can do this by writing a resume that is focused on
your achievements rather than your responsibilities.
A job responsibility describes a task, whereas an achievement describes how well you
performed that task. A direct way to create an achievement statement is by
using the STAR method.
3.8 What is the STAR Method?

STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
The STAR method is a four-step technique that will help you discuss how you used your skills to achieve
your goals. It provides a concise narrative that gives a fuller picture of your competencies and how you
previously put them into practice.
STAR statements are a valuable reference for more than just your resume. They can help you:
• Develop a concise professional introduction.

• Write effective cover letters.
• Prepare for behavioral interviews.
3.9 Putting STAR into Practice

Instead of listing your job responsibilities under the Experience section of your resume, convert the job
responsibility statement into an achievement statement.
Review the job responsibility and think of a skill you used to accomplish that responsibility. Put the skill
in the STAR format. See the example below.
35
Job responsibility: Plan and establish work schedules, assignments, and production sequences to meet
production goals.
Then, take the information from the Action and Result areas to create the achievement statement. Start
with a powerful action verb and use numbers to quantify your achievements, if available.
STAR achievement statement:
Developed and applied a comprehensive document tracking system, ensuring that 100% of 5,500
promotion packages were updated, accurate and completed ahead of the Board deadline.
Examples of how to convert a job responsibility into an achievement statement:

Job Responsibility Achievement Statement
Prepare training for department. Conducted compliance training for 225
managers across six locations with 95%
satisfaction rate.
Determine appropriate equipment and staffing Reduced time spent on inventory by 20% by
levels to load, unload, move, or store materials. reorganizing physical storage of supplies.
Perform personnel functions such as selection, Increased employee retention rate by 16% by
training, or evaluation. focusing on training, team building, and
recognition programs.
36
3.10 Activity: Creating an Achievement Statement using the STAR Method
Step Take one job responsibility (use the VMET) or task in your position and write it
down in the box provided below.
1
Setup remote mutlicamera live switch for the president
Review the job responsibility and ask yourself the following questions?
Step
2 • Did I implement any new processes to improve things?
• What did I do that went above and beyond my normal responsibilities?
• What problems did I solve and what skills did I use to solve it?
Step Use the STAR method to create your achievement statement.
3
Using the STAR Method
S – Situation Think of a specific time or circumstance when you used this skill; define the general
context of that situation.
Setup and operate multi-camera switcher to capture Presidential speech
T – Task Name the key objective you were responsible for in that situation or the
challenges/obstacles you had to overcome.
Transportation, setup, troubleshoot, and operate anycast in a short amount of time in

a location not designed for live television production.
A – Action Describe what you did to complete the assigned task; emphasize the skills and
resources involved.
Ran cables for cameras, tested and trouble shooted internet connections, installed
camera positions, set up and tested multi-camera switcher, Acted as director for live
production, direct 3 camera operators, sometimes operated as a Director and
R – ResultDirector. Summarize the outcome and how you specifically contributed; describe the
Technical
improvements and/or benefits.
37
Take the information from the Action and Result areas to create your achievement
Step statement below. Start with a powerful action verb and use numbers to quantify
4 your achievements, if applicable.
STAR Achievement Statement
3.11 Professional Introduction

Your professional introduction (also known as an elevator speech or 30-
second introduction) helps set the stage for productive conversations with
prospective employers or members of your job search network. It helps you
prepare your response to the “Tell me about yourself” question that is
asked in most formal or informal networking events or job interviews.
You need multiple versions of your introduction that are customized for
different audiences and purposes. Use your employment history outline
and resume to help you identify previous experiences you want to discuss
that can help you connect to your target audience.
How to Prepare a Professional Introduction
Introduce yourself.
1 Whether it is at an event, interview, or anything in between, start off with an
introduction. Give your full name, smile, extend your hand for a handshake, and add a
nice greeting like, “It’s nice to meet you!”
Provide a summary of what you do.

2 Provide a brief summary of your background. You should include the most relevant
information like your education, work experience, and/or any key specialties or
strengths.
Explain what you want.

This step will depend on what you are using the introduction for. This is a good
3
opportunity to explain the value you bring, why you are a good fit for a job, or generally
what your audience must gain from your interaction.
Finish with a call to action.

End your professional introduction by asking for what you want to happen next.
4
Examples can include asking for a meeting, expressing interest in a job, or confirming
you fully answered an interview question.
38
Tips on How to Deliver Your Professional Introduction
• Take your time.

A professional introduction is a quick conversation by nature. Keep it short but try not to speak
too fast.
• Practice. Practice. Practice.
Memorize a general outline or key points to keep the introduction conversational without
sounding too rehearsed in your delivery. The more you practice, the better you will be.
• Avoid niche words and phrases.
Using military acronyms can confuse or alienate your audience. Try to translate the military
acronyms into civilian terms.
• Express confidence.
Even the best professional introduction can lose its effectiveness if your delivery lacks
confidence. Keep your chest high, shoulders back, and smile.
3.12 Activity: Draft Your Professional Introduction

Below are sample statements to help guide you in prepping your professional introduction.
STEP ACTION
Introduce yourself. Give your full name, smile, extend your hand for a handshake, and
add a nice greeting like, “It’s nice to meet you!”
1 “Hi, my name is Ana Lopez. It’s nice to meet you.”
Your
Hello, I'm Brien Vorhees.
Statement
STEP ACTION
Provide a summary of what you do. Include the most relevant information like your
education, work experience, and/or any key specialties or strengths.
2 “I recently completed my service with the Marine Corps as a pilot. I have over 20 years
of experience operating a variety of aircraft. I am certified as a flight instructor.”
Your
I recently completed my military service as a combat photographer. I spent
Statement
the last 20 years shooting, editing, producing and directing video and photo
productions around the world, including directing multi-camera productions
of Presidential events
39
STEP ACTION
Explain what you want. This is a good opportunity to explain the value you bring, why
you are a good fit for a job, or what your audience must gain from your interaction.
3 “I’m interested in being a flight instructor. I would love the opportunity to put my
expertise to work for your company.”
Your
I want to bring my experience in multimedia and audiovisual production to
Statement
your company and put it to work for you.
STEP ACTION
Finish with a call to action. Examples can include asking for a meeting, expressing
interest in a job, or confirming you fully answered an interview question.
4 “Would you mind if I set up a quick call next week for us to talk about any upcoming
opportunities on your team?”
Your
Let's set up something next week where we can discuss what I could
Statement
bring to your organization.
Completed “Hi, my name is Ana Lopez. It’s nice to meet you. I recently completed my service with
Professional the Marine Corps as a pilot. I have over 20 years of experience operating a variety of
Introduction aircraft. I am certified as a flight instructor. I’m interested in being a flight instructor. I
Example: would love the opportunity to put my expertise to work for your company. Would you
mind if I set up a quick call next week for us to talk about any upcoming opportunities
on your team?”
40
Use this box to draft your professional introduction.
41
3.13 Networking
Statistically, 60-80% of jobs are found through networking. Every single person that you know, meet,
and interact with is a member of your network. People play various roles in your network by providing
access to different information, resources, or connection opportunities. But it is important to remember
that networking is a mutually beneficial process. You never know when your skills and resources can
prove to be beneficial to others in your network.
3.14 Activity: Identify Your Network Contacts

The good news is that you already have a network of people and contacts that can help you with your
employment process. Use the categories in the chart below to begin brainstorming the names of people
you think can give you useful guidance or information on your job search.
Iliac,
Mike C.
55th Alumni
WHCA Alumni
42
Notes
43
Tips for Networking
By nurturing relationships through your job search and beyond, you establish a strong network of
people you can count on for ideas, advice, feedback, and support. Below are a few networking tips.
Tips for Networking
Reach out to your network. When we are in networking mode, we tend to think about the
future and forget about those who helped us get where we are now. But reconnecting with
old coworkers, bosses, mentors, and former coaches is key.
Let your network know you are looking for a job. All the connections in the world will not
help you find a job if no one knows about your situation. Let your network know you are
transitioning from active duty and looking for a job.
Be authentic and considerate. In any job search or networking situation, being yourself—the
real you—should be your goal. Be mindful and respect other people’s time.
Be specific in your request. Be prepared to articulate what you are looking for. Is it a
reference? An insider’s take on the industry? A referral? An introduction to someone in the
field? Also, be sure to provide an update on your qualifications and recent professional
experience.
Take the time to maintain your network. Maintaining your job network is just as important
as building it. Start reaching out to your network way before you transition. This will give you
time to nurture the relationship before you ask for help.
Find ways to reciprocate. Networking is about cultivating a relationship that is mutually
beneficial. That means giving as well as receiving. Find ways to help your network and check
in periodically to see how they are doing.
3.15 Expanding Your Network to Online Networking

You can strengthen your job search and increase your networking capacity by utilizing the following
strategies for leveraging your social media networking capabilities:
• Use your social networks to locate employment opportunities.

• Take advantage of social media to learn more about the companies you are targeting and their
hiring decision makers.
• Connect with hiring decision makers, either directly by using the messaging tools within a social
media site or by arranging for an introduction through someone in your network.
• Allow social media sites to work for you by setting your job preferences and creating job search
alerts.
• Use information gathering as another excellent social media resource.
44
3.16 Using LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional online network and
is an effective way to reach people inside and outside of your
existing networking circles, background, and industry.
According to LinkedIn data in 2018, 70% of jobseekers were
hired at a company where they had a connection, which means
you are 4 times more likely to get hired at a company where
you know someone.
A basic LinkedIn account is free, and they also offer a one-year

complimentary Premium Career subscription for Veterans,
Service Members, and their spouses. The Premium Career
subscription includes one year of access to LinkedIn Learning,
which is an online educational platform that helps you discover
and develop business, technology-related, and creative skills through more than 5,000 expert-led
courses. You can also choose to add these courses and related skills to your LinkedIn profile once you
complete them.
3.17 Effective LinkedIn Profiles

If you have not signed up for LinkedIn, you can do so, though it is not necessary to register to complete
the class activities. If you already created a profile, review it to ensure that it clearly highlights your skills
and strengths in the best possible light.
Note: After one year, the premium account has a monthly subscription fee. For more information,
access the link at www.linkedin.com/military.
3.17.1 Getting Started and Profile Photo

Getting Started
• Make sure the email address you use is one you check often and add a phone number—the
more ways a network connection or potential employer can reach you, the better.
• Browse for clever ideas. Look at profiles of veterans, classmates, and people further along your
same target career path.
● Customize your LinkedIn profile address (URL).
The Profile Photo
● Members with a profile photo receive up to 21 times more profile views.
● The photo should be recent and should look like you. Make sure the background is neutral and
does not distract from you.
● Wear professional attire and smile.
● Do not include animals, children, or other people in your profile photo.
45
3.17.2 Activity: Create Your Headline

This activity helps you draft your LinkedIn headline.
The Headline
● This is where you describe what you do in 120 characters or less. Think like an employer and ask
yourself “What skills and accomplishments are the employers I am interested in looking for?”
● To create an effective headline:
o Tell the viewers what you do. Share your relevant professional experience that the
employers are looking for.
o Showcase your specialty. Highlight your specialized training, certificates, education, or
experience to get an employer’s attention. Employers will search for certain keywords,
and your profile will show up in their searches if you have the skills listed in your headline.
o Add flair. You can use symbols and other characters to separate your titles, if desired.
The following are examples of LinkedIn headlines to help you get started on drafting your own headline:
• Project Manager | Lean Six Sigma Black Belt | Operations | Training Development |
• Strategic Communications Executive, PMP, MBA
• Experienced Program Manager available for new opportunities--Active Clearance--Team Builder
• Transitioning Military Cyber Security Professional ★ Infosec ★ CISSP/GCFA/CHFI/CCFE
Create your own headline in the box below:
video editor, producer, director | Graphics | Photography | Active Clearance
3.17.3 Activity: Draft Your Summary Statement

This activity helps you draft your LinkedIn summary.
The Summary Statement (About)
● It is an online version of your professional introduction with 2,000 characters. Mention all the
things that will be relevant to a future employer in your next career field.
● This is also the section where you can explain the logic of your transition and why it makes
sense—how your transferable skills from your previous jobs are a perfect match with this
transition.
Here are some guidelines to follow when writing your summary:
• Start strong. By default, LinkedIn shows only the first three lines of your profile summary before
readers must click to see more. Use the first sentences to convey the most essential information
about your experience and talents.
46
• Use first person. It is okay to use personal pronouns (“I,” “me,” and “my”) to add a personal
touch.
• Incorporate keywords throughout your LinkedIn summary. Recruiters search for a combination
of job titles, skills, and other keywords to find the right candidates. Job postings are keyword-
based content, making them a great resource to find the right keyword to use in your summary.
• State your career goals. This helps your viewers better understand you as a professional, and if
they are a recruiter, lets them evaluate whether your aspirations align with what they are
looking for.
• Tell your career story. Share what you do, show off your accomplishments, and add what makes
you great at your job.
Example of a summary statement:
I am a motivated, naturally outgoing salesperson with a passion for learning. I have over five years of
experience in management and have led teams in developing clear strategies, providing targeted
training, and maintaining compliance standards to achieve organizational and team success. I am looking
for a management position in sales to deliver excellent services and build customer loyalty.
I have been recognized as the best out of 150 of my peers and am requested by-name to communicate
with stakeholders. I have led military operations and sustained a flawless safety record while ensuring
100% accountability for over $100,000 of resources.
I have spent the past five years working in an ever-changing landscape full of decisions that have global
implications. I know how to work together with clients to define the targeted objective and design the
path to achieve common goals.
Use the answer prompts to help you draft your summary statement.
Summary Draft
1. What do you do? (Make this an action statement, not just a job title.)
2. What is your career goal?
47
3. What are things you do better than anyone else? (Name a specific accomplishment and quantify your
statements, if possible.)
4. What are some accomplishments that you are most proud of that show relevant skills and
accomplishments to future employers?
Review your answers to each of the above questions. Is anything missing or inconsistent with what you
do? If so, adjust it, or recognize that it might not be something to include in your summary statement.
Do the answers seem authentic? Did you use the first person?
The Experience
● The Experience section is where you add your employers and positions, dates worked, and some
information about the work you did.
● Use your employment history outline and include accomplishment statements written with the
STAR method to help your work stand out from others.
Tips for Writing Your LinkedIn Experience Section
Use specific job titles. Use O*NET at www.mynextmove.org/vets/ to help you translate your
military job titles into civilian titles.
Use action words to describe your duties. Action words add impact and purpose to what you do.
Use keywords. Research the keywords that you should include for each job that will get the
attention of recruiters for that position.
Use the correct tenses. Use the present tense for your current job and past tense for previous
jobs. This may seem like common sense, but it is not common practice.
Focus mostly on recent work. If you have many years of work experience and many past jobs, just
focus on the 2-4 most recent jobs. It is appropriate to have a different entry for your different
tours of duty, but if you have had some civilian work experience after the military, then you can
list military service as a single entry.
48
The Education
● List your most recent degree first and include courses and projects that directly illustrate
your fit to your new career.
● Enter any extracurricular activities you participated in while attending that school/college in
the Activities and Societies text box.
● Enter any awards or honors you received from the school/college in Description.
The Skills & Endorsements
● Highlight the skills you have. When recruiters use

LinkedIn to find potential candidates, they search for
people who have the key skills they need. This is the
perfect place for you to highlight the many skills you
have. You can only highlight 50 skills. Make sure you
think like an employer and highlight skills that are
relevant to your future job.
● Remember to translate your skills. Use civilian
equivalents like “communications networks,” “aircraft
maintenance,” and “supply chain management,” which
are much more likely to increase your chances of
showing up in a recruiter’s search results.
● Use the field auto complete. When you enter skills like “leadership” or “communications,”
the field auto completes common skills others have claimed, which you should use.
● Endorse others for their skills. LinkedIn also allows other users to endorse you for the skills
you listed, which verifies that you possess those skills. The more endorsements you have,
the higher you appear in searches for those skills. The best way to get endorsements is to
endorse your network connections’ skills, so take the time to endorse others.
● Pin skills. LinkedIn lets you pin your top three skills on your profile so you can highlight what
you want to be recognized for.
The Recommendations
● This section is like a traditional reference. LinkedIn recommendations tend to carry greater
weight than endorsements do.
● Tips for asking for recommendations:
o Ask people you know. To ensure you are getting quality recommendations, ask for
them only from credible people who can genuinely vouch for who you are and what
you do.
o Personalize your LinkedIn recommendation requests.
o Make it easy. Provide samples of recommendations your people can either use or
modify as they choose.
49
The Location & Industry
Carefully consider what information you put into the location and industry sections of your profile while
using LinkedIn during your military transition.
● If you plan to move to a new city post-transition, choose that city instead of where you are
currently located. This allows LinkedIn’s algorithms to recommend jobs for you in the
correct location.
● Likewise, if you are using LinkedIn during this transition period, do not select “military” for
your industry. Instead, select the industry that you are interested in entering. This will help
LinkedIn’s algorithms recommend jobs, connections, and news articles from the right
industry.
Other Sections
With more details included on your profile, it becomes more likely that recruiters and potential
employers will be able to find you. In the Add Profile section right below your profile picture, you can
add the following sections to your profile:
• Causes you care about: Shows you are sensitive to the needs of others.
• Licensures & Certifications: Demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills to
perform the work. A certification or license, in some cases, may be the equivalent to holding
a college degree.
• Courses: Shows that you are a lifelong learner and dedicated to self-improvement.
• Honors & Awards: Features the recognition you have earned.
• Volunteer Services: Highlights your passion and how you like to give back.
LinkedIn is a great tool you can use to increase your online presence and strengthen your networking
potential. Before you make your profile public, be sure that you have completed each section to make it
easy for the LinkedIn algorithms to help you with your job search and networking.
When you are ready to begin your job search, in your LinkedIn profile, you can turn on open to
opportunities to alert recruiters that you are actively looking for a job. Edit your “open to work”
preferences in your main profile.
LinkedIn offers several online tutorials for building your professional identity and creating a strong
profile. For more information, visit www.linkedin.com/military.
50
Applying for a Job
51
Section 4 Applying for a Job

In this section, you will learn:
 What you should know before filling out an employment application

 How to identify job opportunities
 How to analyze a job posting
4.1 How Hiring Occurs

Companies hire employees through a variety of methods:
1. Advertised Vacant Positions
When a company has an immediate need to fill a

position, they usually advertise the vacancy, review
job applications and/or resumes, interview some of
the qualified candidates, and select the one that best
meets the needs of the organization.
2. Talent Hires
Companies can also acquire talent by hiring someone

who impresses them, even if they do not have a
specific vacancy to fill.
3. Unadvertised Employment Opportunities
Companies sometimes informally search for talent to

fill an anticipated or vacant position by asking people
they know and trust if they can recommend anyone for the role.
52
4.2 Selecting an Application Method

Compete for Advertised Vacant Positions
This is the most straightforward approach to job searching. Invest some of your time and energy
pursuing this strategy.
Things to consider when applying to a vacant position:
• There is often a great deal of competition for an advertised job, especially if it is an attractive
position.
• A larger business that expects to attract many applicants will use software, such as an applicant
tracking system (ATS), to quickly screen out all but a handful of the resumes it receives; as such,
your application may never be seen by a hiring official.
Pursue a Talent Hire Opportunity
In some cases, you may be able to persuade a hiring decision-maker who is not consciously
seeking to fill a vacancy to hire you because you will add significant value to their business.
This approach is used by job seekers when:
• They are unable to discover any acceptable advertised or unadvertised job vacancies.
• They have a good understanding of their knowledge and skills and know how they can apply
them to contribute to the business in a meaningful way.
Pursue Unadvertised Employment Opportunities
Many employers, especially smaller businesses, try to fill vacancies without posting public
advertisements. They will often initially try to fill vacancies by tapping into their personal, social,
business, or professional networks, or by asking their current employees and other people they
know to recommend people for an opening.
Advantages of pursuing unadvertised vacancies:
• There is less competition for the position.

• It is more likely that your application materials will be read and considered by a hiring decision
maker.
• It is more likely you will get an interview, and this is where the real opportunity to market
yourself occurs.
Ways to find unadvertised jobs:
• Through your personal, social, or work-related networks

• Visit, call, or email the right individual in a business; provide them with a targeted copy of your
resume; or fill out an application and hope they either have a vacancy now or will in the future
53
4.3 Seeking Out Veteran Ready Employers

To leverage your job search as a Service Member you may want to seek out Veteran-ready employers.
Federal Hiring
The federal government made hiring Veterans a priority. Veterans are particularly valued by many
government agencies due to their transferable skills. You can visit www.usajobs.gov for job
opportunities in the federal government.
HIRE Vets Medallion Program
The HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program is the only federal award
program that recognizes employers who recruit, retain, and employ
Veterans.
Employers must meet certain criteria to be awarded. There are two

different medallion award levels, Platinum and Gold, which is based
on the size of the company. You can visit www.hirevets.gov/awardees
to view these employers and target them for employment
opportunity.
4.4 Activity: Job Search

Use the following steps to explore job postings at CareerOneStop.
STEP ACTION
1 Access www.careeronestop.org.
2 Hover the mouse over the Job

Search tab.
54
STEP ACTION
3 From the secondary menu, click
Job Listings.
4 In the Job box, enter the

occupation.
5 In the Location box, enter your

current or desired working
location by city AND state, or by
zip code.
6 Click Search.
7 View the list of open positions in

the area.
55
STEP ACTION
8 In the Sources box, click the down
arrow to view jobs on other job
posting websites.
The National Labor Exchange (NLx) is a public-private partnership between the

National Association of State Workforce Agencies and DirectEmployers and
provides a database of job openings in public, private, and nonprofit sector
organizations. https://usnlx.com
America’s Job Exchange (AJE) is a leading destination for

employers seeking best–in–class solutions for diversity
recruitment and federal contracting compliance.
https://www.americasjobexchange.com
CareerBuilder combines the best in advertising, software, and

services to help companies find, hire, and manage great talent.
https://www.careerbuilder.com
Indeed is a job site for job seekers, giving them free access to
search for jobs, post resumes, and research companies.
https://www.indeed.com
56
4.5 Analyze a Job Posting

Job postings, whether online or in a newspaper or other print publication, can provide insights into the
skills, experience, and other selection criteria that an employer considers most important for a specific
job vacancy.
Here are some tips for maximizing the information you can gain from job postings:
Tips for Maximizing Job Postings Information
Read the entire job posting. Skimming the posting may cause you to miss pertinent
information.
Print out the job posting and highlight keywords in the qualifications, skills, and experience
sections.
If the contact for the job posting is a private employment agency, find out if they will charge
you a fee. Some agencies charge the employer a fee; some charge the job seeker a fee.
Be wary of job postings that ask you to pay for training or purchase kits or training materials
as a condition of employment.
Some job postings use the word “preferred” (degree preferred, two years of experience
preferred, etc.). This usually means you can apply if you do not have that skill or ability if you
have the other qualifications.
When sending a resume in response to a job posting, be sure you meet the minimum
requirements. If the job posting says certification, license, degree, experience, etc. required,
you might be wasting your time if you do not have those qualifications.
57
4.6 Activity: Analyze a Job Posting for Keywords & Information

Before you submit your application, take several minutes to carefully analyze the job posting.
Review the example job posting below for a Clinical Nurse position and pay special attention to the
keywords and phrases that are highlighted.
The Clinical Nurse is responsible for providing total comprehensive nursing to patients and their families through the
implementation of a plan of care. The plan is based upon the patient's developmental and healthcare needs identified
through the assessment of the patient's physical, psychological, socioeconomic status, and physician orders regarding
care, treatment, and education. The Clinical Nurse understands the needs of the organization and supports the
mission, values, and management of patient care services. The Clinical Nurse actively supports and incorporates ANA
Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice, North Carolina Board of Nursing Practice Act, WakeMed's Division of Nursing
Professional Practice model, and WakeMed's Patient & Family Centered Care (PFCC) model. The four key concepts of
PFCC are: Dignity and Respect = Listen to and honor patient and family perspectives and choices; Information Sharing
= Communicate and share complete and unbiased information with patients and families in ways that are affirming
and useful; Participation = Patients and families are encouraged and supported in participating in care and decision-
making at the level they choose; Collaboration = Patients and families and the Clinical Nurse collaborate in the
delivery of care.
Experience Requirements:1 Year Clinical - Surgical Services Preferred
Education Required: Graduate Nursing Required - Or College Courses Nursing Required - With Required
Licensure/Certification - And Bachelor's Degree Nursing Preferred
Licensure/Certification Requirements: Registered Nurse Required
Hours of Work:7a-7p
Weekend Requirements: As Needed
When you review a job posting that you are interested in, it is beneficial to consider all the keywords
and phrases and compare your qualifications with the job requirements, as done in the example below.
Job Posting Analysis: Keywords & Details
Keywords & Phrases Job Requirements My Qualifications
• Total comprehensive care • Experience: 1 year of clinical • 5 years of clinical

• ANA Scope and Standards of (required) • RN – associate
Nursing Practice Surgical Services (preferred) degree/Pursuing
• North Carolina Board of • Education: Nursing graduate or bachelor’s degree
Nursing Practice Act nursing college courses (required)
• WakeMed's Division of Nursing Nursing bachelor's degree
Professional Practice model (preferred)
• WakeMed's Patient & Family • Licensure/Certification: Registered
Centered Care (PFCC) model Nurse (required)
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To complete this process on your own with a job posting that you are interested in, complete the
following steps.
Steps Actions
1 Select a job posting.
2 Thoroughly read the job description, paying close attention to the position requirements,
qualifications, and responsibilities.
3 Review the job announcement for keywords and phrases that provide insight into the
company’s mission, values, and organizational culture.
4 Use the chart below to document the keywords and job requirements from the job
posting, as well as your qualifications. Check to see how you meet and exceed the job
requirements to determine if you are a qualified candidate.
Job Posting Analysis: Keywords and Details
Keywords & Phrases Job Requirements My Qualifications
Am I qualified to apply to this job? Yes No
5 Ask yourself: “Am I qualified to apply to this job?”

a. If no, go back to your list of job postings and look for another job that is a better
match for your qualifications.
b. If yes, continue to Step 6.
6 Ask yourself “Will this job help me reach my goals?”, “Does the job description interest
me?”, and “Can I see myself working in this job for 8 hours a day?”
a. If yes to all these questions, you may be ready to apply for the job!
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4.7 Completing a Job Application

The job application process is not universal—no two
companies follow the exact same process or protocols.
To apply for the job, you must follow the directions the
company has provided. Most job vacancy
announcements clearly state how to apply. You may be
required to submit your resume and cover letter by
email, in person, or through a job board or company
employment website.
Many company job portals allow you to apply directly

online by establishing a user account and profile in the
company’s system. Once you are set up in the system and you decide to apply for a position, your
application will go directly into the company’s applicant tracking system (ATS).
ATSs are programmed to scan for keywords, former employers, years of experience, and schools
attended to identify candidates of interest. This can expedite the process for the employer and for the
candidate while allowing you to track and monitor the status of your application to determine where
you are in the process.
Below are some tips for filling out a job application.
Tips for Filling Out a Job Application
Read and follow application instructions carefully. Complete each field as requested. For
hard copy applications, complete the application as neatly as possible.
Keep your application consistent with your resume. Tailor your answers to the job you are
seeking. Do not provide negative information but answer the questions truthfully. Copy and
paste from your resume where applicable.
Update your resume and cover letter. Make sure your resume and cover letter are targeted
to the position you are applying to. Always accompany your application with a resume and
cover letter.
Consistently save your information when completing an online application to protect your
data. Organizations may build a time-out feature into their online application system.
Anything that is not saved before the system times out may be lost.
Do not leave blank spaces. Employers may be required to have a complete application. If
there are questions that do not apply to you, respond with “N/A” or “not applicable.” Never
write “see resume” on the application, as this may imply that you are disinterested in the
position.
60
Do your salary research. Employers may have you list your salary requirements, and your
answer could be a deal breaker. It is okay to say “open” or “negotiable.” If those are not
options, provide a salary range based on your research for the position and company.
Be prepared to provide references. If an application requests references, provide accurate

contact information.
Proofread your application before submitting it. Have someone else proofread your
application to ensure that there are no typos, misspellings, or grammar errors.
4.8 After the Application Process

After you submit your application, you will need to proactively seek ways to get an invite to an
interview. Do not sit around and wait for the call. There are a couple of things you can do to increase
your chances of getting an interview.
Network. Network. Network.
Utilize your professional contacts, LinkedIn, and other social media

networks to connect to someone that works within the company.
This individual can give you information about the hiring manager,
the hiring process, and the inside scoop of the company’s culture.
You can also ask your contacts with a connection to the hiring
organization to put in a good word on your behalf.
Continue applying.
Continue applying to other open positions that fit your skills and
experience. The more applications you have in play, the better
chance you have of getting an interview.
61
Interviewing for a Job
62
Section 5 Interviewing for a Job

The interview represents one of the most critical stages of the employment process. It is your
opportunity to truly market yourself to a prospective employer. In this section, you will learn the stages
of an interview and interview questions, and you will have the chance to practice your interview skills.
5.1 Stages of an Interview

While every interview may be very different, there are four typical stages of an interview. The more you
understand each stage and what is expected of you, the better your chances of being selected.
Introductory Stage
The interviewer will form an initial impression that can contribute to acceptance or rejection. The
decision to hire begins at this stage.
You should build rapport that can extend throughout the interview. You should smile, introduce yourself
to the employer and offer a firm handshake. You can also make appropriate small talk to break the ice
but stay away from controversial subjects. Do not sit until the interviewer does or until he or she invites
you to do so.
Pay attention to interviewers’ names and job titles. It is fine to ask for a business card to have for your
records and later use. Throughout your interview project enthusiasm, confidence, and respect.
63
Employer Questions
Most interviewers use a standard set of interview questions as each interviewed candidate must be
treated the same. These questions relate to how your skills, knowledge, training, and work experience
fit the job and the company. Unfortunately, many job hunters do not prepare answers to these typical
questions. As a result, candidates may not present their strongest skills and qualifications.
Candidate Questions
You will often be asked if you have questions for the interviewer and can ask two to three questions to
gauge the organization’s fit to your standards and criteria. Ideally you should have 6-7 questions
prepared.
The interviewer is trying to determine your level of interest in the job and your degree of knowledge
about the company. Interviewers also learn about you, and remember you, by the questions you ask.
Interviewers respect candidates who think about their choices carefully, and they appreciate knowing
you have done your homework.
Closing Stage
During the last few minutes, take the time to end on a positive note. Reiterate your interest in the
position and be sure to thank them for the invitation to interview and offer a firm handshake while
making good eye contact.
Usually, the hiring authorities for the position will confer before anyone is offered a job. So, do not
expect a decision to be made about the position immediately.
Make a gracious exit, smile and be pleasant, and on your way out, say goodbye to anyone you see who
may have helped you.
5.2 Types of Interview Questions

Most interviewers use a standard set of interview questions. These questions relate to how your skills,
knowledge, training, and work experience fit the job and the company. In general, employers are
looking for the answers to the following three questions:
1. Does the candidate have the skills and abilities required to perform the job?
2. Does the candidate possess the attitude and work ethic the employer expects?
3. Will the candidate be a team player and fit into the organization?
Traditional Interview Questions
Traditional interview questions are broad-based. Here are the three most common traditional interview
questions along with what they want to know (the meaning), how you can respond (answer), and an
example response.
64
Question Meaning Answer Example
Tell me What value can Start off with your I have been a pilot for over 20 years in the
about you bring to the work experience and Marine Corps, and I absolutely love flying.
yourself. organization? highlight 2 to 3 skills I got a chance to travel all over the world
you want the and flew all types of aircraft, so I had an
interviewers to know exciting time. While I was serving in the
about you. Wrap up Marines, I finished my bachelor’s in
your answer by aviation. I have my FAA Airframe and
talking about how Power plant License along with an
your prior experience unrestricted ATP certificate. Now, I’m
has prepared you for looking for an opportunity to share my
this position. passion of flying with new pilots, and I
believe this position is a great fit for me.
Why should How are you the Make sure you I believe my experience and qualifications
we hire you? best candidate explain how you are a perfect match for this position. I
for the job? meet the required have a bachelor’s degree and over 20
qualifications for the years of experience in aviation. I also have
job. teaching experience from being an adjunct
at Broward Community College. I
understand student learning outcomes
and the student population at a
community college.
Why do you What do you Be specific about Two things I love the most are flying and
want this know about the what makes you a teaching. I feel that I can do both things
job? job and the good fit for this role within this position. As an adjunct
company? and mention aspects instructor at Broward Community College,
of the company and I thoroughly enjoyed teaching the
position that appeal students about aviation and helping them
to you the most. find their passion in life. Your program is
recognized as one of the best aviation
programs in the world, and I would like to
be part of it. I am confident that my
experience, knowledge, and expertise in
aviation will help grow the program.
65
Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral questions request ● Tell me about a time when you had to implement a major
descriptions about how you project.
have behaved in past
● Have you had to convince a team to work on a project that the
situations, and your answers
team members were opposed to? How did you handle that
are predictors of how you
situation?
might behave on the job.
● Have you ever encountered conflict with a coworker? How did
you overcome that conflict?
● What is your management style? Is it different from your

leadership style?
Situational Interview Questions

Situational questions present • If you were busy meeting a deadline and a coworker asked you
you with a scenario that could to help make copies, what would you say?
happen to gauge your skills
• If one of your supervisors tells you to enter more sales contacts
(problem solving, conflict
resolution, etc.) or your than you made, what would you do?
personality (integrity,
mindfulness, etc.).
You can improve your chances for success if you practice answering questions using the STAR method—
Situation, Task, Action, Result—as much as possible.
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5.3 STAR Method for Interview Questions

The STAR method is an excellent method for developing responses to behavioral and situational
interview questions, as it helps you to discuss the specific situation, task, action, and result of the
situation you are describing.
Be sure to follow all parts of the STAR method. Be as specific as possible without rambling or including
too much information. Eliminate any examples that do not paint you in a positive light.
Here is an example of how you can use the STAR method to plan your answer to the following interview
question:
“Provide an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.”
NOTE: Find additional interview questions with coaching suggestions in Appendix 9.1 to practice
using the STAR method when formulating answers.
67
Receiving a Job Offer
68
Section 6 Receiving a Job Offer

Receiving a job offer is the most exciting stage in the employment
process. But before you say “yes,” it is important to evaluate the job
offer first. In this section, you will learn how to evaluate a job offer to
ensure it meets your career goals.
6.1 Evaluating a Job Offer

Your decision to accept a job offer should not be based solely on the
salary. While salary is important, you also need to evaluate the job,
the company, and the opportunity for growth. You want to ensure
that this career fits within your interests, values, workstyles, and
aligns with your career goals. Think long-term when evaluating the job offer, not short-term.
Below are some factors to consider when evaluating a job offer:
Factors Yes No
Job/Position
How does this job fit into your long-term career plans? Is this the job you want to do or just a
means to an end? Also consider the job title, responsibility level, number of people you
manage, reporting structure, etc.
Career Growth Potential
Will you have a chance to make decisions and/or lead or manage groups? Are there
promotion opportunities? Can you learn skills that are easily transferable?
Company
Does the company have financial difficulties? Is the company in good standing with their
customers?
Work/Life Balance
Will you be on call all the time? Do you have rigid work hours, or can you work flex time? Can
you work from home part of the time? Will you be required to work night shifts, or weekends
and holidays?
Commute
How long is the commute? Long commutes can have a negative impact on both your health
and your cash flow—especially with rising gas prices. A long commute also cuts into your
quality of life because it takes you away from your family longer every day.
Travel Requirements
Are you required or expected to travel? How far and how often?
Benefits & Perks
Does the healthcare package meet your needs? Consider other important benefits: 401(k)
plan, pension plan, vacation time, sick time, disability, life insurance, tuition reimbursement,
sponsored daycare, etc.
Salary/Compensation
Does the salary meet your requirement? Also consider factors such as commission, bonuses,
stock options, and projected salary increases.
69
Communicating
Your Decision
70
Section 7 Communicating Your Decision

After you receive a job offer, you have the option to accept, delay, or decline the offer. Whatever you
decide, be sure to communicate your decision with the business within 24 to 48 hours, either verbally or
in writing. If the offer was made verbally, a verbal response is enough. If the offer was made in writing, a
written response is required. When you receive a job offer, it is important that you follow the
accompanying instructions and meet all prescribed deadlines.
This section will provide you with guidelines for communicating your decision with your employer as
well as how to negotiate for a better job offer.
Accept Delay Decline
Accepting a job offer is a big The employer may expect you to If you decided to reject the offer,
decision. It is a good idea to ask request time to consider the offer communicate quickly with the
for time to consider the offer. or to make a counteroffer. Make employer, and express your
You can then use that time to talk sure you start by relaying your gratitude for their time.
to your family and friends about appreciation for the job offer.
the opportunity and evaluate the Then ask what the deadline is to
job offer. get back with your decision.
Example: “Thank you so much for

If you are accepting the position,
the job offer. Do you mind if I
be sure to thank them for the
take a couple of days to consider
opportunity, and verify the:
your offer and discuss this
• Salary opportunity with my family? Is
• Benefits there a deadline I need to get
• Position back with you by?”
• Start date
Email template example for how to decline a job offer:
Subject line: Job Offer – [YOUR NAME]
Dear Mr. Johnson,
Thank you very much for offering me the position of Clinical Nurse. However, I have decided that this
is not the right fit for my career goals at this time.
I sincerely enjoyed our dialog as well as discussions with your team, and I very much appreciate you
taking the time to share information about the role and vision of WakeMed.
Again, thank you for your time and consideration; best wishes in your continued success.
Sincerely,
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7.1 Negotiating Job Offers

You may receive an offer that includes a mix of desirable and undesirable
elements. Rather than turning down the offer, you may want to consider
negotiating the terms of the offer with the employer.
Before you decide to negotiate, you must make some decisions. First, be sure
the issue is so serious that you would not take the job unless it was changed.
Look back at the job evaluation checklist from the last section to identify
which items are the unacceptable ones on your list.
 Salary
If money is the issue, be sure you research and know the salary for the position in your market
and the range you will accept. Having a range allows for compromise.
For example, you can say, “According to my research, I was expecting something more in the
$_______ to $______ range based on the position and my experience and skills.”
If the employer is not willing to flex on salary, you may want to negotiate other terms of the
offer instead.
 Schedule Flexibility
Time is money. You can negotiate for more vacation days, flex time, and the ability to
telecommute. These options can help maintain a healthy work-life balance and make the job
more attractive to you.
 Education & Training

Negotiate for the employer to pay the tuition for a degree program or the cost of earning a
professional certification. This option will help increase your skill set and add value to the
organization.
 Travel Reimbursement
Gas, parking, and toll costs can add up quickly. You can negotiate for travel reimbursement on
gas, parking fees, and toll fees.
Be creative! These little things can make a big difference in your quality of life.
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7.2 How to Negotiate
An in-person negotiation offers the advantage of addressing the employer's

objection(s) on the spot. If the job you are applying for is one where an offer may be
made at the end of the interview, you should be prepared to negotiate at that point.
An in-writing negotiation can give you the opportunity to word your remarks
carefully. It gives the employer a chance to evaluate your ideas, talk them over with
others, and make a counteroffer. It avoids instant refusal. Remember to keep the
letter positive and factual.
Whether negotiations are performed in person or in writing, you must think like an employer and
strategize. Use the following negotiation tips:
• Start your negotiations with appreciation and excitement about the offer.
• Explain and justify why you are requesting the specified changes to the initial offer.
• Evaluate where you meet or exceed the job preferences or requirements.
• Discuss the skills and experience that you offer and provide a range that would match with your
knowledge, skills, and experience.
Written Negotiation Example for a Higher Base Salary:
Dear Mrs. Patel:
Thank you for offering me the Assistant Director position. I would like to express again how excited I
am to begin working for your company.
Before I can accept, however, I would like to discuss the matter of compensation. As we discussed in
the interviews, I have two more years of experience and formal training than you required in the job
description. My eight years of expertise overseeing technical operations combined with my current
active Top Secret, SCI clearance will allow me to engage in operations that are vital to the
organization with little to no delay or additional cost to the company.
The research I've completed on comparable salaries in Atlanta, Georgia (job market range $35,000 to
$68,000), shows that a base salary range of $56,000 to $62,000 would be the market value of the
knowledge and experience I bring to this position.
I can certainly see a future for myself at the company, and I’m confident that I can bring a lot of value.
I know that we can come to a mutual agreement on an acceptable salary.
Thank you for your time,
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7.3 Negotiation Outcome

Remember, this is a collaborative negotiation where you and the employer want a positive outcome. If
necessary, you can accept the offer as presented or thank them for their offer and respectfully decline.
If you are unable to find middle ground during your negotiations with your employer and you choose to
decline their offer, you should walk away with confidence that, just as this employer has seen the value
in your skills, experience, and education, other employers will do the same.
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Summing It Up
75
Section 8 Summing It Up
Congratulations! You have taken significant steps toward setting yourself up for success. There will be
many more steps you need to take to get ready for your transition but know that you have a network of
supporters to assist you on your journey. You are not alone.
In this training you have:
 Conducted occupational research and job search for selected careers to complete the Gap
Analysis.
 Learned about the civilian work environment and how to market yourself effectively to a future
employer.
 Used the STAR method to write your achievement statements.
 Learned the basic sections of a resume.
 Drafted an employment history outline.
 Drafted a professional introduction to use for networking.
 Identified your network contacts.
 Drafted a headline and summary for your LinkedIn profile.
 Analyzed a job vacancy posting and connected your skills and abilities with the needs of an
employer.
 Learned appropriate verbal responses to interview questions.
 Learned the relevant factors in evaluating a job offer.
You are informed, prepared, and well on your way to a successful transition to a new and rewarding
career.
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Appendix
Section 9 Appendix
9.1 Practice Answering Interview Questions
You can improve your chances for success if you practice answering questions. Read the following
questions and the coaching guidelines below them. Then, write down your own personal answers using
the STAR method as much as possible.
1. Tell me about yourself.

Talk for approximately two minutes. Be logical. Be positive. Show some of your personality but relate
what you say about yourself to the job.
2. Why are you leaving your current position? Why did you decide to leave the military?
This is a critical question. Do not badmouth your former employer, service branch, or previous
supervisors. Remember, the person you are talking to may have served in the military or may have a
child, spouse, or sibling currently on active duty. It is good to state that after long, careful consideration,
you and your family have decided it was time to consider opportunities in the civilian workforce.
3. What do you consider your most significant accomplishment?

This can get you the job. Prepare extensively. Tell a short story that includes details of your professional
involvement. Describe an accomplishment that was truly worth achieving. Include challenging work,
deadlines, overcoming obstacles, important company issues, and relations with coworkers.
4. Why do you believe you are qualified for this position?

Pick two or three main factors about the job and about you that are most relevant. Discuss with specific
details. Select a technical skill, a specific management skill (organizing, staffing, planning), and a
personal success story.
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9.2 Example Chronological Resume
MARK S. DAY
Cell: 222-333-1234 [email protected]
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE SUMMARY
Over five years military experience in the U. S. Marine Corps working with diverse populations including
other branches of the military, federal civilian employees, government contractors and foreign
nationals. Able to complete assignments on time while ensuring compliance to regulations, policies, and
procedural information. Experienced in using hands-on problem-solving methods. Good spatial
awareness and skilled negotiator.
• Communication Personal • Punctual • Adaptable to Change

• Management • Decision Making • Project Coordination
• Problem Solving • Research / Analysis • Inventory Control
WORK HISTORY
U. S. Marine Corps August 2016 – July 20xx
Team Lead Camp Lejeune, NC
• Delegated work to 7 personnel based on priorities, selective consideration of the difficulty and
requirements of assignments and the capabilities of the employees, set and adjusted short-term
priorities, prepared schedules for completion of work and evaluated work performance.
• In charge of battery office supplies and acquisition including the office credit card operating
within the annual budget constraints of 10K.
• Justified the purchase of new equipment, improved work methods, and procedures used to
streamline assignments and increase productivity.
• Read manuals on weapon and vehicle maintenance to perform inspections and ensure
necessary repairs were conducted. Used step-by-step instructions while referring to manual for
identification of specific parts. Completed required requisition forms to ensure timely and
efficient use of supplies.
• Created “hip-pocket” informal training classes for numerous topics including weapon systems
and maintenance, vehicle systems and maintenance, and position improvement to provide
instruction to groups ranging from 5 – 40 participants using manuals and hands-on applications.
EDUCATION
Mountain View High School, Dallas, TX, diploma 2017
TRAINING AND AWARDS

Leading Marines, 6-week Marine Corps Leadership course 2020
Field Artillery Cannoneer, 12-week Marine Corps Entry Level Instruction course 2018
9.3 Example Combination Resume
HUNTER ADAMS
(999) 555-4900
[email protected]
Over 10 years’ experience working with and supervising personnel in the transportation field.
WORK EXPERIENCE:
TRANSPORTATION
• Recognized for driving over 8,000 accident-free miles over extremely challenging and hazardous
terrain while successfully transporting approximately 974 pieces of equipment.
• Operated multiple heavy equipment vehicles and maintained Class A license over 8 years.
MAINTENANCE
• Performed thorough preventive maintenance on assigned operating systems maintaining a 100%
vehicle operational readiness.
• Accountable for maintaining four heavy equipment transporters and four 70-ton semi-trailers
valued more than $900K with 100% readiness rate.
• Maintained equipment using various vehicle technical manuals, manufacturers updates and
maintenance bulletins and the organizations standard operating procedures.
INVENTORY CONTROL
• Proven accuracy and efficiency in inventory maintenance resulted in a promotion ahead of
schedule and before end of probationary period.
• Tracked daily shipments maintaining a 98% accurate inventory for 500-line items of electronic
parts over 2 years.
• Received shipments and distributed parts to proper location in 16,000 square-foot warehouse
maintaining zero loss.
• Input all inventory changes into the computer using Excel spreadsheet as single-source
document.
WORK HISTORY:
Transportation Operator, U.S. Army, Fort Hood, TX, September 2016 – April 2020
Shipping and Receiving Clerk, Air Ops, Phoenix, AZ, January 2016 – September 2016
EDUCATION AND RELATED TRAINING:

- Continuing Studies: Online General Course, Central Texas College, Killeen, TX, currently enrolled
- John Marshall High School diploma, Phoenix, AZ, 2015
United States Army Training

- Military Commercial Driver’s License Course to Class “A” Standards, 2019
- Fuel Handler Motor Transport Operators Courses. 2018
80
9.4 Website Guide o www.coursera.org

o http://www.edx.org/
ACTIVE-DUTY RESOURCES AND OPPORTUNITIES o www.linkedin.com/learning
• Community College of the Air Force: AMERICORPS

www.airuniversity.af.mil/Barnes/CCAF/
● AmeriCorps positions and profiles of Veterans
• Credentialing Opportunities On-Line for who served in AmeriCorps:
active-duty Service Members (by branch of www.AmeriCorps.gov/veterans
service):
o U.S. Army credentialing opportunities AMERICAN JOB CENTER
online website
https://www.cool.osd.mil/army/ind ● U.S. Department of Labor online portal for
ex.htm Veterans; Click “Find a Job” and enter your
location in the “American Job Center
o Department of the Navy credentialing Finder”: www.veterans.gov/
opportunities online website
www.cool.navy.mil/usn/ APPRENTICESHIP
o U.S. Marine Corps credentialing
opportunities online website ● Apprenticeship USA Toolkit answers to FAQs
www.cool.navy.mil/usmc/ about apprenticeships:
www.dol.gov/apprenticeship/toolkit/toolkitfaq
o U.S. Air Force credentialing
.htm
https://afvec.us.af.mil/afvec/Public/
● CareerOneStop apprenticeship finder:
COOL/
www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Training/find-
o Coast Guard credentialing certifications.aspx
https://www.cool.osd.mil/uscg/ ● Department of Labor Employment and Training
Administration general information about
• Voluntary Education - information related apprenticeships and access to contact
to attending college while still on active information for regional and local state
duty: www.dantes.doded.mil apprenticeship agencies:
www.apprenticeship.gov/
• DoD SkillBridge overview of program
requirements and eligibility: ASSESSMENT
www.dodskillbridge.com
● CareerScope®:
https://dol-
• United Services Military Apprenticeship
vets.careerscope.net/assessment
Program (USMAP) information and
instructions:
https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/stat ● O*NET Interest Profiler:
ic/index.htm www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip
CAREER EXPLORATION
● Free online classes:
● Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational ● Action Agency Directory:
Outlook Handbook provides occupation https://communityactionpartnership.com/
descriptions: www.bls.gov/ooh/
● The Department of Housing and Urban
● O*NET military-to-civilian occupation Development Exchange site. Resources for
translator: Homeless Veterans and Homeless Veteran
www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/ Service Providers:
www.hudexchange.info/veterans/
● My Next Move for Veterans search by
keyword, industry, MOS: ● The Department of Health and Human Services
www.mynextmove.org/vets/ Resources:
https://www.hhs.gov/programs/social-
CERTIFICATION services/homelessness/index.html
● The CareerOneStop Certification Finder tool ● State and County Veterans Affairs Offices:
can identify available certifications by va.gov/
keyword or by occupation:
www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Training/ INTERNSHIPS
find-certifications.aspx
● AmeriCorps program descriptions and
HIRE VETERANS application for national community service
opportunities:
● Employers recognized for hiring veterans www.nationalservice.gov/programs/ameri
www.hirevets.gov corps
HOMELESSNESS ● USAJOBS Pathways for federal government

internships:
● Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program www.usajobs.gov/StudentsAndGrads
(HVRP) helps Veterans experiencing
homelessness gain meaningful employment via ● U.S. Chamber of Commerce internship
services that include job placement, career opportunities:
counseling, workshops, and resume writing www.uschamber.com/about-
assistance: www.nvtac.org/grantees us/careers/internship-opportunities
● VA crisis line at (800) 273-8255, press 1 JOB SEARCH ENGINE
● The United Way’s search page: www.211.org ● The National Labor Exchange (NLx)
database of job openings in public, private,
● The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans’ and nonprofit sector organizations:
list of community-based organizations: https://usnlx.com/
www.nchv.org/index.php/help/help/locate_or
ganization ● The National Labor Exchange (NLx) Virtual
Job Search:
● The National Community Action Partnership site. https://virtualjobs.usnlx.com/
https://communityactionpartnership.com
Click on the Find Your CAA link at the top of the ● CareerOneStop, a great resource for career
page, then click on Community exploration, training and jobs:
82
www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/job-
search.aspx ● Build and engage with a professional network.
Access knowledge, insights, and opportunities:
● U.S. Department of Labor Veteran’s portal; www.linkedin.com
click link to find jobs:
https://www.veterans.gov/ ● Access tutorials on how to use LinkedIn and
other social media platforms:
● USAJOBS houses most federal job vacancy https://www.linkedin.com/learning/
announcements: www.usajobs.gov/
● Stay connected with friends, family, and
JOINT SERVICES TRANSCRIPT (JST) community: www.facebook.com
● Joint Services Transcript information and ● Online news and social networking service on
access: https://jst.doded.mil/jst/ which users post and interact with others:
www.twitter.com
LABOR MARKET INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY
● Bureau of Labor Statistics site for
comprehensive and up-to-date LMI; ● CareerOneStop alphabetical list of “hot”
provides deep dive into current economic technologies:
situation in the United States: www.onetonline.org/search/hot_tech/
www.bls.gov/
TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
● Bureau of Labor Statistics resources for
jobseekers: ● TAP Virtual Curriculum:
www.bls.gov/audience/jobseekers.htm https://tapevents.org/courses
● CareerOneStop links to up-to-date industry ● Small Business Administration website has

trends, career trends, occupation profiles, resources for Veterans who want to start
business finder and job finder tools: their own businesses:
www.careeronestop.org/ www.SBA.gov/bootstobusiness
● O*NET data on emerging careers; including UNEMPLOYMENT RESOURCES

descriptions, outlook, wages and relevant
in-demand technologies: ● The Unemployment Compensation for Ex-
www.onetonline.org/ servicemembers (UCX) program provides
benefits for eligible ex-military personnel:
LICENSING www.servicelocator.org/OWSLinks.asp
● The CareerOneStop License Finder tool can ● Reemployment Services and Eligibility
help you determine if an occupation is Assessment (RESEA) Program assists Veterans to
licensed in a state and provide links to the find training, jobs or services needed to prepare
state agency website for information on for employment: rc.workforcegps.org/
requirements and how to apply:
www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Training/ USMAP
find-licenses.aspx
• United Services Military Apprenticeship
SOCIAL MEDIA Program (USMAP) information and
83
instructions: • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/stat information for degree granting institutions:
ic/index.htm www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/higher_learnin
g.asp
• U.S. Department of Labor Employment and
Training Administration link for USMAP: • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
www.apprenticeship.gov/service- information for vocational/technical
members-and-veterans training:
www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/non_college_d
VA BENEFITS AND PROGRAMS egree.asp
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs VETERANS’ RESOURCES

comparison tool for finding estimated
benefits by school or program: • Small Business Administration has resources
www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool for Veterans who want to start their own
businesses:
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs www.SBA.gov/bootstobusiness
summary of GI Bill benefits, eligibility, and
links to payment rates: • U.S. Department of Labor online portal for
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill- Veterans; Click “Find a Job” and enter your
benefits/ location in the “American Job Center
Finder”:
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs www.veterans.gov/
explanation of work-study program:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill- • Veterans Benefits Administration
benefits/how-to-use-benefits/work-study/ information about Veterans’ benefits,
including education and training:
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill www.va.gov/education/
benefits for licensing and certification:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill- ● Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E):
benefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/ www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-
rehabilitation/
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
information about the Yellow Ribbon
program. Includes links to see participating
schools and current payment rates:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-
benefits/post-9-11/yellow-ribbon-
program/
● U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill

benefits for apprenticeships or OJT:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-
benefits/how-to-use-benefits/on-the-job-
training-apprenticeships/
84
Notes
85
Please complete the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Participant Assessment located at:
https://www.dodsurveys.mil/tgpsp/
86

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U.S.

January 2021 Edition

3.16 Using LinkedIn ............................................................................................................................. 45

Section 1 Getting Started

• Conduct occupational research and job search for

1.2 Course Overview

The table below shows a breakdown of each stage, including the

Employment Process Stage Stage Focus Topics & Activities

Employment Process Stage Stage Focus Topics & Activities

4. Interview for a job. How will you • Stages of an interview

The modules you have completed during your

Bring the following items to class each day:

• Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET)

1.4 Career Transition Timeline

Career Transition Timeline

Outcome High-Quality Civilian Career

1.5 Activity: Where Are You Now?

1. My current job in the military is…

photographer, editor, producer, leader

2. What I find most rewarding about my job is…

mentoring soldiers, coordinating field video shoots

3. Some of the strengths I’ve developed are…

interpersonal communications, leadership skills

4. After the military, I want to…

Continue to work in the government visual information field

5. One thing I need to learn for my job search is...

creating an effective resume

Planning Your Next Steps

Section 2 Planning Your Next Steps

In this section, you will:

2.1 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Career

2.2 Labor Market Research

• Which industries employ people

Here are a few key terms:

Useful Terms to Understand

Key Term Definition Example

Occupation Type of work, including the associated Registered Nurse (RN)

Industry A collection of companies and Healthcare, Education, Sales,

Career A full history of jobs (paid or voluntary), ER, Pediatrics, Patient

To put it simply: your occupation is what you do,

Example: Receptionist is an occupation that can be

After a few years on the job, you might

2 Access My Next Move for Vets online

3 Type the title of the chosen

5 From the list of search results that

6 View all the information provided for

2.4 Activity: Identify the Occupation Outlook & Salary Range

1 Scroll to the Job Outlook section at the

3 On the next page, complete the

Labor Market Information Analysis

My Next Steps, based on Gap Analysis and Labor Market Information:

2.5 Activity: Final Analysis

Based upon your Gap Analysis and Labor

2.6 Additional Transition Workshops

2.7 Getting Help at the American Job Center

2.8 Activity: Access the AJC Online

1 Access your AJC online

2 Click FIND A JOB.

3 Click GET ONE-ON-