Transitioning from Active Duty to the Civilian Sector?
You’re not alone. Transitioning to civilian life after serving in the military for so many years is a journey that includes both opportunities and challenges. To many veterans in Washington State, one of the most overwhelming barriers is building a robust professional network. While the military community provides a close support system, a new set of connections often unlocks civilian career success.
Fortunately, your military experience has already equipped you with valued leadership, teamwork, and communication skills- that can make networking your new superpower. At Operation Military Family, we understand the unique challenges transitioning service members face, and that is why programs like Discovering Your Post-Service Identity (DYPSI) work to fill the gap between military service and civilian success.
Why Networking Matters
It means more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about trust and relationship building, opening doors to new opportunities. Whether it be a dream job, finding a mentor, or even learning about industries one never knew existed, networking is key to unlocking your full potential in the civilian workforce.
When I first started building Operation Military Family, I really had NO network in the Veteran space – and I didn’t have the technology we have today to “blast” individuals through social media so I had to be strategic – and really get on the edge of my comfort zone…and pick up the phone.
Fortunately, we did have websites – and I would spend hours tracking down individuals who I would offer to buy coffee, in hopes that I would gain insight into how to build out my non-profit – and from that, gain a friendship.
It worked. Today, Operation Military Family has helped well over 10,000 military and veteran families connect to resources and gain footing back into the civilian world.
As you get ready to embark on the next chapter, it is time to build your network.
How DYPSI Helps Veterans Build Professional Networks
DYPSI is an 8-hour tailored program to help veterans translate their military experience into civilian success. This is how it makes a difference:
- Translating Military Skills: Time in the military sharpens your leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are valued in civilian industries. DYPSI will show you how to use those abilities to build trust and forge lasting professional relationships.
- Connect to Local Opportunities: Washington State’s JBLM area is full of tech, logistics, and operations opportunities. DYPSI connects you with local employers, mentors, and fellow veterans to expand your network and tap into the region’s potential.
- Nurturing Military Connections: As you build your civilian network, nurturing your military connections is important. These provide the foundation of trust and shared experiences to sustain you throughout your career.
Your Next Steps
- Engage With Fellow Veterans: Share your experiences and learn from those who have successfully transitioned. Check out Veteran social media groups and join those. Tap LinkedIn and start identifying industries you want to purse. Find someone in that industry and offer to buy them coffee (yes, that does work).
- Leverage Programs Like DYPSI: Take advantage of tailored resources that help you build a strong civilian network.
- Take the Leap: Attend local events and get a mentor. Start building your professional circle today. There is no better time than now to start building out your network.
Join DYPSI Today
Ready to turn military experience into civilian career success? DYPSI offers the tools, resources, and connections needed to make it happen. Register here (https://operationmilitaryfamily.com/unite-us-intake-form/) and take that first step to increase your professional network and help attain your post-service goals.
We would love to hear from you! Please share your strategies for networking in the comments below, and let’s continue to support one another in making a strong veteran community in Washington State.