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How to Activate the Reserves (Part One)

by Deanna

Activate The Reserves 300x177 How to Activate the Reserves (Part One)
 
So, you are preparing to leave the military. And, you are looking for a job. You have decided to return to your home of record, you know, the place you lived when you joined the service. You haven’t lived at home for about eight years now. Things have changed, you know that. You have changed, you know that, too. So, how do you get a jumpstart on your job search even before you get home?
 
You do what I call, “activating the reserves”. You “activate” the people in your home town and have them be the “foot soldiers” to help you get a position fast. 
 
Most people, when they are starting something new, (a new business, a new career, a network marketing business) are told to make a list of their old friends, call up them up and say, “I’m so excited and I just called you to share with you that blah, blah, blah, blah.” 
 
That’s about how much your old buddy or college chum actually hears before they have tuned you out.
 
Instead, ask questions that focus on them.
 
“Hey, Joe! It’s Steve Smuckatelli. I know it’s been a while since we’ve talked. I was looking through our high school yearbook (saw you on Facebook) the other day and thought about the time that we…”back in the day.” So, I wanted to give you a call and see what’s new with you. Are you busy? Can you talk now?”
 
Keep the conversation light and focused on them.
 

  1. So, what’s changed about you since I saw you last?

  2. Are you married? Got Kids? How many? What are their names? How old are they?

  3. How’s your mother? Sister? Brother? Wife?

  4. Did you buy a house? What neighborhood do you live in? How are the schools there?

  5. Where are you working? What do you do there? How long have you been there?

  6. What do you like about it? What don’t you like about it?

  7. What are some of your professional goals? How can I help you reach them?

  8. What do you do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies?

  9. If money were no object, how would you spend your time?

 
And, finish with something like this:
 
“It’s awesome getting the chance to speak with you today. I’ve really enjoyed catching up with you. Here’s my number (XXX-XXX-XXXX) I’m getting out to the service soon and I’m coming home. Let’s stay in touch, maybe we can do something together when I get back. And, hey, if you hear anything about a job in the [whatever industry you are gearing yourself towards], would you let me know? Thanks, Joe. You’re the best!”
 
Take notes on what they are telling you. And, if you come across something that can help them, help them! Pass on an opportunity, send them an article that may help them reach their goals, give them a “lead” on a government contract, forward them a copy of our newsletter, anything to be of service to them.
 
Younger Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines tell me that they stay connected with their families and friends through social media and don’t feel like they should have to do this. But, here’s the thing: for people that don’t know you, social media can be a wonderful thing. (You’re probably reading this post because you heard about it through social media) but for people who actually know you and are happy to hear from you, social media IS too easy to use, it doesn’t convey how much a person is liked, respected and valued by you like a phone call can. Remember, relationships first!
 

I’d love to know if having these tips helped spark some new ideas for you if you are preparing to leave the military and looking for a job!  Please leave me a comment here on my blog or on my Facebook Page. Good Luck!

May I also suggest that you sign up for the RSS feed of this blog. I know you will not want to miss these posts. Click here to sign up for the feed.

 
 

Dblueshirtback2u How to Activate the Reserves (Part One)Deanna Wharwood’s passion is to help veterans, service-disabled veterans and their dependents create the systems they need to start and grow businesses from their first dollar to six-figures. Unlike other coaches, consultants, mentors and trainers, she is a veteran who successfully transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. Learn more about Deanna – The Veterans’ Coach and how she can help you!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Tagged as: activate the reserves, deanna wharwood, deannawharwood.com, find a job before you leave the military, job hunting for military service personnel, leaving the military looking for a job, military job serach, the veterans coach, transition coaching, transitioning from military life to civilian life

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