Military life: your secret weapon for career success (even when it feels like a challenge)
Being in a military family can have its positives.
You may get to travel the world, meet incredible people, and learn to adapt on the fly. But let’s be honest, it also throws some curveballs at your plans. Sophie Woffenden, head of people at Vantage Talent Solutions, is here to tell you how to turn those “challenges” to your advantage when it comes to nailing your career goals.
Frequent moves? You’re a master adaptor!
Job interviewers love to grill you about all those school moves. Instead of freaking out, own it! Explain how military life made you a quick learner who thrives in new environments. Employers value flexibility and resilience – two skills you’ve practically mastered by now.
Uncertain future? Forge your own path!
Military life can make long-term planning tricky, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take action. Focus on your end goal and show employers you’re committed to pursuing your career dreams, no matter the bumps in the road. Plus, being adaptable lets you explore different options and find your perfect fit.
Incomplete projects? Highlight your drive!
Had to ditch a project due to a relocation? Don’t sweat it. Focus on the application, not the application process. If it’s relevant, explain the situation honestly and then emphasise your initiative. Mention any self-study you did to stay on track. Employers are looking for people who keep learning, and you’ve proven you can do that even amidst chaos.
Parental deployments? You can handle the pressure!
This is a chance to showcase your maturity and responsibility. Explain how you manage your studies and work while supporting your family. Remember, everyone faces challenges – yours just happen to involve deployments. Employers appreciate people who can handle pressure and prioritise their responsibilities.
Dealing with stress? You’re building character!
Military life can be stressful, but guess what? So can most careers. Talk about healthy coping mechanisms you’ve developed – hobbies, exercise, or support systems. This shows you’re self-aware and proactive, exactly what employers are looking for.
Sophie’s three bonus tips
1. Prep your evidence
Have your CV or application form handy during interview prep (or even during the interview itself). For each skill or experience listed, jot down 2–3 specific examples that showcase them. This could be:
Resilience: Overcoming challenges related to moving, like completing a project despite disruption.
Teamwork: Demonstrating collaboration through sports teams, Cadets, or group projects.
2. Research like a pro
A little research goes a long way. If you know who’s interviewing you, check their LinkedIn profile to understand their background. Seeing their picture can even make introductions feel less awkward!
Company insights: Skip the generic careers page and delve into the company’s ‘About Us’ section for a deeper understanding of their mission and values.
Video advantage: Many companies have short YouTube videos that give you a glimpse into their work environment and culture. Watching them can help you feel more comfortable and prepared.
3. Focus on your strengths
Interviews are your chance to shine. While some questions might seem irrelevant, like balancing work with being a young carer, stay focused. If you encounter such a question, politely redirect the conversation back to your strengths and qualifications mentioned in your CV/application. Highlight specific examples that showcase your skills and how they’d benefit the company. Remember, the interview is about your potential as an employee – keep the focus there!