Finding a great job just got easier for military spouses. In the past, their search for employment had been impacted by the following:
- The mobility of a military lifestyle
- Increased responsibilities due to frequent deployments
- Varying state requirements for some jobs
If you can identify with the above circumstances, get excited because a new day is here. We've put together several steps and resources you can take advantage of to help manage and maneuver through any potential roadblocks you may encounter.
Read More»
Knowing is half the battle
First, you must do your homework. Did you know the Department of Defense and the military service branches offer a full range of programs that can be accessed online, by phone, or in person? In fact, the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program offers military spouses comprehensive education and career support, and has career counselors who can help with:
- Career Exploration — helps to identify your skills, interests and aptitudes, and assists you in selecting an interesting and rewarding career.
- Education, Training, and Licensure. — supports your career goals that may require education, technical training, a license or credential.
- Employment Readiness — resources like the Military OneSource Spouse Career Center Employment Readiness page can help you brush up on current trends, write a resume, network and hone your interviewing skills.
- Career Connections — can open the door to your next opportunity. Such connections include: Military Spouse Employment Partnership, USAJOBS.gov, and CareerOneStop and more.
You can contact a Spouse Education and Career Opportunities career counselor online or by telephone: 800-342-9647. You can also locate your Employment Assistance Program office through your installation's Military and Family Support Center.
Another resource to consider is the MilSpouse eMentor Leadership Program, which helps military spouses reach their career goals by offering three types of mentors:
- Corporate mentors from military spouse-friendly employers
- Career mentors from various industries and/or career fields
- Peer mentors to advise fellow military spouses on professional and personal issues relevant to military families
These programs are in place for your benefit, so don't hesitate to take advantage of them.
But what about the kids?
When it comes to child care, arrangements may not always be "one-size-fits-all," but they are manageable for military spouses who are seeking employment. The Department of Defense and the service branches offer extensive military child care programs on installations and in surrounding communities worldwide. These options include:
- Child development centers — offer care for children from six weeks to five years of age.
- Family child care (also known as child development homes) — offers care for children from infancy to 12 years of age.
- School age care — offers programs for children age six to twelve and usually opens before and after school, on holidays and for summer day camp.
- Youth and teen services — offer activities and classes for youth ages 12 to 18.
For more information on child care solutions at your installation, visit the MilitaryINSTALLATIONS directory of Child Development Centers or call 1-800-342-9647.
Making moves without transportation
Transportation is key when searching for a job, but these days, you don't have to travel far to find one. In fact, many organizations right on your installation are looking to hire military spouses. Here are some ideas to consider that may not require much of a commute:
- Connect with a Spouse Education and Career Opportunities counselor — These counselors can give you the inside track to opportunities you didn't know existed.
- Telecommute/telework — If you've got access to the Internet, you've got access to a job. More companies are allowing employees to work from home; this may be a right fit for you.
- Set up a home business — Having your own business can be empowering. Based on your professional skills and expertise, you can come up with an idea and turn it into a profitable, sustainable business.
Making the transition
If your military sponsor is transitioning out of service, you can take advantage of available Department of Defense programs and solutions that may help you find a great job:
- Connect with the Transition Assistance Program — When a service member is transitioning out of the military or retiring, his or her spouse can participate in the Transition Assistance Program. This program can assist with resume preparation and provide seminars and personalized coaching with an emphasis on transitioning from military life.
- Determine if you are eligible for unemployment compensation — The rules vary from state to state. Check the Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration site under "Unemployment Insurance Filing Assistance" to learn about your state's policies.
Military OneSource
Finding the right kind of work is important for building a strong career and it's reassuring to know employment assistance and career counselors are available to help you.
Military OneSource provides a free, 24-hour service that is available to all active-duty, National Guard and reserve members (regardless of activation status) and their families. Consultants provide information and make referrals on a wide range of issues from childhood services to transportation options and more. Free, face-to-face, phone, video and online non-medical counseling sessions are also available. Call 1-800-342-9647 or go to Military OneSource to learn more.