Step 4: Re-employment

Step 4 is re-employment

Step four is re-employment and this is the point at which former members should have the opportunity to be employed in the post-service environment, without risk of underemployment.

There are some mistakes being made in the treatment of former service personnel as many community groups and organisations attempt to weigh in on the subject.

One mistake is developing and implementing new recruitment processes specifically for service personnel on the basis that existing recruitment processes do not properly appreciate nor demonstrate the existing skills of these individuals. This further isolates the individuals from the civilian world, perpetuates the us and them the mentality and fails to identify the need for the re-creation of the individual through the development of a civilian body and mentality. The recruitment industry in Australia and internationally invests extensively annually in the movement of people. To ignore a proven system and suggest that former service personnel need a different process will prolong the ‘between-ness’ experienced by these individuals. That is, keep them stuck in a ‘us and them’ mentality with the civilian world - the world in which employment is available.

“The term transition is not helpful in the post-service environment and should be discouraged from use as it perpetuates the us and them mentality.”

— Dr Kate Martin

Examples of Suitable Employment

The following table shows the details of participant’s re-employment to which employment sector.

How do I achieve new employment?

In a civilian workplace, usual processes apply. Check job boards like smart jobs or Seek. Network with former or current colleagues, family or friends.

Most importantly, take the time to investigate what you really would like to be able to do, need to be able to do (financially for example), and are physically and/or mentally able to do.

Research suitable positions

The first question is what would I like to do. Then research the requirements such as jobs available and selection criteria.

If you are undecided, seeking the help of a career advisor may be helphul.

Resume and cover letter

In the civilian world, a professional and up-to-date resume and cover letter should accompany any job application you submit.

Click on the button below to open the Queensland Government website that provides some great advice for you to follow.

Qld Goverment

Interview preparation

Successful applicants always prepare well and rehearse answering questions prior to attending any job interview.

Research the company. position and selection criteria and then practice how you would answer questions relating to them.

Portfolio

If you have documentation to support your experience at interview, such as your cover letter, resume, and copies of any qualifications or achievements, feel free to place them all together as a portfolio.

You do not need to include a service record as civilian employers cannot decipher them, but you can include achievements, commendations, or a certificate of service.

Job Outlook

Career Information

Job Outlook website is provided by the Australian Government to help everyone find the most up to date career information, industries and an A-Z for jobs.

Includes a career quiz and skills match tools.