Finding meaningful work after the military must be like finding true love in real life. If you have had it before, you are more likely to want it again. A lot. You are also more likely to find it again, because you know what it looks like.
That's why I am always glad to hear a transitioning military member, veteran or job-seeking spouse say they want a job that makes a difference. Or that they want to find meaningful work.
Yes, a healthy paycheck is essential in this economy. No one wants to work for free. Yet for many of us, a big paycheck is not enough. We want to find meaning in our next jobs, too. We want to make an impact. Is that too much to expect?
What Makes Work Meaningful After the Military?
We military job seekers are not alone in our desire for meaningful work. Over the past 30 years, research has shown that meaningfulness is more important to Americans than any other aspect of our jobs. Meaning matters more to us than salary, benefits, promotions, job security, hours and working conditions.
When we feel like we are making a difference on the job, we are more likely to feel engaged, committed and satisfied, as well as much less likely to quit. Of course, we want more meaning. But how do you get meaning and all those other nice benefits at the same job?
Finding Meaningful Civilian Jobs
Now I could make you a list of 100 civilian jobs that internet gurus think should be "meaningful," such as neuroscientist, attorney, veterinarian, therapist, teacher, firefighter, paramedic, gym worker. You would probably experience that list like a flashback from Richard Scarry's terrifying picture book, "What Do People Do All Day?". (Don't look at it. I'm still Scarry-ed).
Jobs that make a difference have to include so much more than a job title. That is why I am so excited that we are teaming with our Western Governors University sponsors on our newest free transition master class: "Jobs That Make a Difference: How to Find Meaningful Work After the Military." It will be held online on Thursday, Feb. 20, at 4 p.m. Eastern.
In our 60-minute free master class, you will learn:
1. How to identify great paying jobs with more meaningful opportunities.
Evaluate various career paths that align with your skills, interests and values to find professional fulfillment in the civilian world.
2. How to create a career plan that includes meaningful work.
Develop a strategic career plan for your first civilian job and thereafter. Identify the most important values to emphasize in an interview. Learn how to translate your military experience and reshape your skills so that employers see the real you.
3. How to find training for jobs that include meaningful investments.
Focused on skill development, this section covers how to invest in education and training that enhances employability. Veterans will explore certifications, degrees and other learning opportunities that can bridge the gap between military and civilian careers.
4. How to enhance meaning in your current work.
Your first job might not be what you expected, but you can use this time to focus on strategies to make current employment more fulfilling. Veterans will learn techniques to align their work with their values, commitments and employer.
You can make a difference in the world with the next phase of your amazing career. Find more meaningful work in your civilian life and sign up for our new master class today.
Find the Right Veteran Job
Whether you want to polish your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Subscribe to Military.com to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.
