Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. AT&T has provided items as compensation and provided for giveaway, however all opinions are my own.
One of the concerns of Military Spouses is “How can I sustain a career when we are always moving.” A valid concern, because in the nine years we have been a Military Family I too have said the same. I’ve compiled five job search tips for Military Spouses.
Update Your Resume
Have you ever come upon a job fair in your new area and realized your resume was not up to date? Yep, I’ve totally been in that position. Follow the Boy Scout motto, and always “Be Prepared.” It’s honestly one of the best things you can do to go from one job to another. With that being said, always keep an eye out and do online searches for Job Fairs in your area. If you can get away attend a job fair a couple cities away. You never know when companies are going out of town in search of new talent.
Network
Networking is one of the best things you can practice on the ground level. You never know if you could be speaking to your next employer in the line at the grocery store. There have been times when I meet someone and they ask me, “Hey do you know of anyone looking for a job?” That statement is gold! Even if you aren’t the fit for the position, you can possibly refer a friend. And you become a confident referral for your friend as well.
Make a Good Impression
My mom always told me, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” I think it’s such a great idea to always look presentable. Sometimes I think I might be over dressed, but I think about what my mom says. It’s so important to always put your best foot forward. If you are going out for an appointment, spend an extra few minutes and look your best. Never know when someone could be looking for someone like you.
Volunteer
When we were stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC, I was a volunteer with Army Community Services (ACS). Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to volunteer too much before we left again. The hubs deployed nine months after we arrived there and I came home with a then 11 month Aramis. But I kept in contact with the ladies and several times they would tell me, “Had you stayed behind, we would have gotten you a job here.” Granted at that time I wasn’t looking for employment, I was a new mom and my husband was deployed. But had I had the chance and Aramis be a little bit older I might have taken them up on their offer. Volunteer, get out there and show your character. This goes back to two previous tips, you are making a good impression and networking at the same time!
Be Open to Potential Opportunities
We aren’t going to do the exact job we set out to do and I’m not saying settle exactly either. I’m saying, be open to doing a position in hope of getting another opportunity to place yourself where you wanted in the beginning. Get your foot in the door! Remember that by following the tips above if you happen to get into a position that you weren’t really wanting but know it has potential for growth is there. It’s all about growth. So be open.
Did you know AT&T supports the hiring of active military personnel, veterans and their families for nearly 100 years?! I had no idea! This is a wonderful opportunity for the Military community. Per the AT&T website: “We know and appreciate the sacrifices military spouses make every day as they serve alongside their service member!” AT&T accommodates frequent relocation, hello multiple pcs in several years! Working with AT&T all of that can be one less for you. AT&T has a virtual career session for in between those moves. Learn more about AT&T’s flexible career opportunities by visiting att.jobs/milspouse.
Get in on the conversation and share with your fellow Military Spouses online using the #MilSpouse hashtag and if you have any questions tag @ATTJobs
AND NOW FOR THE WINNER OF THE AT&T PRIZE PACK!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO EMILY H.
Thanks to everyone that entered! I love doing giveaways so I’ll be starting another this weekend!
Candy
Added to the
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
Those are all great tips.. There is so much help available to our military and their spouses and I love how every one supports each other in the military.
Lindsey @ Redhead Baby Mama says
It’s all about networking. So much more than I would have ever though.
Virginia Higgins says
Great tips. Networking is so important.
Amanda says
Those are great tips! I agree with everyone – networking is vital! The saying it’s not what you know but who you know is so true!
Carly Bellard says
I have 2 brother in laws in the USMC. Moving your family is always tough. Military Wives are a special breed to be able to pack it all up and start over.. time after time!
Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? says
Those are great tips for anybody searching for a job. I can only imagine how much harder it is if you are moving often to support your spouse’s profession.
Rosey says
These are all good tips. I used to dress for image but have so so so slacked on that in the last few years (turning into a temporary sahm).
gaynycdad says
Any job hunting tips are useful these days. Especially for your particular market. Thanks for sharing this!
Mitch
casavilorainteriors says
These are all wonderful tips and not just for military spouses. Networking is probably the biggest thing you can do when you a job hunting
Heather @ It's a Lovely Life! says
Those are great tips for everyone. I know that military spouses have unique challenges when finding employment and these will really help them.
Janell poulette says
Thanks for sharing these tips. I think they can also apply to anyone looking for a job.
StacieinAtlanta says
These are some great tips. The biggie in my book is networking. Someone you know or meet will have that lead that you need.
Christie says
I agree with having some amazing folks in your life to network with. But I think these tips can apply with anyone!
Pam says
It must be incredibly frustrating to start and nurture a career when you are moving frequently. These are great tips to take into consideration and I think everyone can take something away from them.
Susanna @Zealous Mom says
These are great tips for anyone who moves a lot! Not being from a military family, I’ve never thought of spouses struggling maintain a career. That sounds like it could be very frustrating.
Krissy Higgins (@Krissy_r) says
Definitely some great tips! I believe that keeping an updated resume is ALWAYS important, and always making sure to make a great first impression! Thanks for sharing.
Ashley (@IrishRed02) says
These are great tips, I have military friends I will be sending this over to them.
krystal says
Volunteering is a great tip. You never know where it could end up!
Marina says
Great tips! Being open is so important. Too many people miss a good opportunity because they’re blocked on what they want.
Ashley M says
As a very new military spouse I really appreciate these tips! It’s something I’ve been worrying about as our move date gets closer.