Sure, a permanent change of station is moving across the country - or the world - to support your service member's career. But, it's also the chance for some pretty incredible adventures and a unique opportunity to grow your own career along the way.
There might never be a "right" time to start your career or change jobs, but finding new employment in the middle of another major life change can be downright stressful. Don't let a pending or recent PCS move keep you from finding meaningful employment. Here are several tips to help you prepare for your upcoming job search.
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When do you start?
Once you have orders in hand and a probable arrival date, you'll want to begin researching and contacting resources at your new duty station:
- Update your resume. Print copies and hand-carry them when you move.
- Narrow your focus. Think about where you'll be living - either on or off installation - and what kind of commute you're willing to take on. If you have kids, also consider the convenience to their school, day care and activities.
- Call or email your new installation's employment assistance program for employment leads in your new area. The program name varies across the services. Find contact information through MilitaryINSTALLATIONS or your Military and Family Support Center.
- Speak with a Spouse Education and Career Opportunities certified Career Counselor to learn more about opportunities at your new duty station.
- Be open to something new. Maybe this PCS move is time to make your own move in the career goals department. You could start a business, volunteer or go back to school.
- Transfer your occupational license or get licensed in your new state. The My Career Advancement Account Scholarship may help you cover the cost of getting certified or licensed in your new state.
Get down to business
Once you arrive, there are lots of ways you can start to look for a job more aggressively:
- Link up with the employment assistance program on your installation (if you haven't already). The staff can lend a hand with federal employment, resume tips and interview skills.
- Network with other spouses. Go to a spouses' club meeting or attend unit functions to make friends and career connections at the same time (and make sure to mention your stellar multitasking skills in your next job interview).
- Go to a job fair. Don't forget to pack plenty of resumes.
- Fit in to stand out. Explore your new area. Find your favorite spots and talk with the locals about jobs around town.
- Use the Internet. Check local websites regularly, and while you're at it, scanning the good old-fashioned newspaper want ads can't hurt.
- Take advantage of training and education opportunities in the area. Local colleges and tech schools might offer training especially for military spouses. You never know if you don't check.
- Volunteer. It might just lead to a paid position or spark a new interest.
- Become a temp. You can start earning a paycheck while you network.
- Apply to be a substitute teacher. Check with the schools in your area.
- Go into business for yourself. Start your venture with the local chamber of commerce for startup information. If you're hoping to run a business out of your home on the installation, check base regulations first.
- Find a telecommuting job. From bookkeeping to graphic design and all kinds of things in between, you can have a thriving career at home. Watch out for scams, though, and be suspicious of any employer who asks for money up front.
- Be flexible. Ah, the old military spouse mantra. Remember that it's OK to find a job that's different from your last one. It's possible that you might not find the right job right away, so don't be afraid to try something new that challenges you.