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BY petevanepps
Maximize Interview Success: 3 Can’t-Miss Tips (E201)
I think one of the hardest parts of the transition from the military is the unknowns and uncertainty about what is next. Not everyone experiences this uncertainty. Many JMOs who move from the military have their immediate future locked up, whether they choose to attend a full-time academic program such as an MBA or law school or if they work in a general schedule (GS) role for the government agency or department, those options are often secured many months for they separate from the military.
Moving from the military to the business world is often very different. Corporate America hires for and fills open positions, whether recently vacated or new positions created because of the company’s growth. At each and every Cameron-Brooks Career Conference, companies attend with an actual open position and, very often, multiple open positions. By that, I mean each role has a boss and a salary with a start date in a specific location, and these positions are important and valuable to the company.
We continue to feature these Post-Conference Reviews because we want to provide a glimpse behind the curtain. We aim to help officers still serving on active duty hear and see future possibilities.
One of the most valuable aspects of these Post Conference Review webcasts is the live Q&A where officers attending our next Career Conference have the opportunity to ask those who just finished their Conference.
Here are the three key takeaways our alumni shared from their experiences, which shed more light on the process and how to maximize interview success.
Start Early
Each of our candidates came to the Career Conference ready to interview, and each said they wished they had started preparing for the transition earlier. Two alumni specifically mentioned wishing they had switched their mindset earlier in the process to apply what they were learning in their military roles. That would have enhanced their experience and helped them connect more effectively in interviews.
Read (or Listen)
The adage is familiar and true – leaders are readers! One of the biggest missteps officers make when preparing to transition is minimizing the importance of increasing their knowledge through reading and learning. Officers sometimes assume that their military experience is sufficient to describe their military experiences in a business interview effectively. Reading expands your knowledge, which, in turn, broadens your exposure. If you find that it takes too long to finish a book, try listening instead. Regardless, you will benefit and improve.
Build Community
Through the years, one of the most, if not the most, beneficial activities officers engage in is working with other officers to prepare for interviews. Whether it is strength in numbers, group accountability, or just making new friends and colleagues, participating in a study group will absolutely ramp up your preparation.
Many of you who listen to this podcast are already participating in the Cameron-Brooks program. If you are not actively participating but want to learn more, please contact me directly. I am glad to talk through your options, help you set goals, walk through your marketability and guide you to launching a successful career in Corporate America.
Want to maximize interview success? You can always learn more on our website and our YouTube channel.
Best of Success!
Pete Van Epps || (210) 874-1519 || pete@cameron-brooks.com
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