Networking Before You Separate

People move around a lot in the military, so sometimes it's hard to stay connected. Fortunately, technology and websites like LinkedIn make that easier. Now when you PCS you can connect with your old co-workers on LinkedIn and keep up to date with their professional lives. Why is it so important to use networking sites like LinkedIn, Rally Point, or the countless others?

“It’s often who you know, more than what you know that matters.”

Ever heard of that guy that always gets great assignments because he is friends with the assignment team? Well it's the same in the civilian world, especially if you are just starting out. Networking and building connections are great ways to get your foot in the door, and networking sites like LinkedIn have become essential to a successful transition.

Maybe your old supervisor now works for a company you are interested in, or your NCOIC from a few years ago knows the hiring manager. If you don't keep in contact with them, how will you know they could help get your foot in the door with your preferred employer? The last thing you want to do is start talking to them only when you want them to help you; that's disingenuous and most people will see right through that.

What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a professional networking website that serves as a means of connecting and building rapport with professionals in your area(s) of interest. Your profile is essentially an online resume, so anyone that looks at it sees all of your qualifications and experience. You can connect with other professionals and comment on discussions in industry and demographic-specific groups. 

LinkedIn enables you to apply for millions of jobs simply by submitting your profile, making the application process that much easier. Additionally, LinkedIn will show you who posted the job, giving you a point of contact to follow up on your application. Not only that, but LinkedIn lets you know when someone views your profile, so you can get an idea of the level of interest in your applications. 

Another great Linkedin feature allows you to receive and display recommendations from current and former colleagues. If a potential employer sees that you come highly recommended then they will know you are a high performer, thus making them more likely to hire you.

LinkedIn and other sites like it provide easy access to your resume anywhere, anytime so that you don't have to carry around a folder with resumes wherever you go. You can even use QR codes on the back of a business card to provide an employer immediate access to your online resume! Take a look at an example below:

You never know when someone you served with will be able to help you when you transition. So build a network before you separate from the military! 

David J Geaney is an Air Force Logistics Officer and budding entrepreneur with a passion for marketing people and causes that are important to him, including veteran employment, space exploration, poverty alleviation, and education. Geaney started Resume Class as a way of helping people, particularly veterans, translate their skills and experience into something employers understand and appreciate.