Are you considering a career change, or just a change of pace? Or are you preparing to wrap up your career in uniform, and unsure what your next step might be?

No matter your situation, these timeless tips will help you navigate unchartered waters as part of a successful career transition:

1. Network, Network, Network

Networking is about relationships, so be sure to grow and use your professional connections. Remember, it’s a two-way relationship – your experience and skills will help others in your network, just as you’ll draw information, guidance, and support.

Unsure how to strengthen your network? If you’ve never done one, make 2024 the year you go on your first informational interview.

[MORE MOAA RESOURCES: Networking and Social Media]

2. Do Your Homework

Before you can begin your search, you need to have a better understanding of your options.

What are your priorities? Only you and your family can decide. Once you make that decision, act on what’s most important to you.

3. Write an Award-Winning Résumé

You can write an effective résumé, and you don’t have to pay for résumé-writing help!

• Keep the target job and/or industry in mind.
• Tailor your résumé for each position, using key skill words in your résumé that match the potential employer’s job announcement or are impactful within your industry.
• Include the “so what” – why the reader should care about what you’ve written. Does your résumé align with your overall objective and their job need?
• Proofread to ensure no typographical errors, even if you have to read your résumé backwards.

[MORE MOAA RESOURCES:  Résumé Resources | Premium and Life Member Résumé Review]

4. Polish Your LinkedIn Profile

Be sure to leverage social media — especially LinkedIn, which can highlight your professional persona, and ensure your unique brand is always working for you.

• Begin with an attention-grabbing headline (your brand tagline right below your name).
• Upload a professional photo in civilian business attire with a neutral/plain background, along with a background photo that speaks to your brand.
• Include specific keywords and skills important to the roles and/or industries you desire.

[RELATED: MOAA on LinkedIn]

5. Put Yourself Out There

Given that anywhere from 80% to 85% of job seekers find their position through networking, be sure to spend a good amount of your time networking — attending events like MOAA webinars, our annual networking event, and virtual career fairs. And don’t forget to attend local-area in-person events and career fairs.

Be sure to actively engage and participate during these opportunities: You never know what conversation will help propel you to your dream job.

MOAA Can Help

MOAA Premium and Life members have access to personalized career consultation services as well as other exclusive benefits; learn more about what’s offered at our Transition and Career Center. Premium and Life members also can access our archived transition and career webinars, including this offering on tips to kick off 2022.

Not a Premium or Life member? Check out MOAA.org/join for information on joining MOAA or upgrading your membership.