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BY Brock Dudley
Navigating the Economy: JMOs and the Labor Market
What’s Happening with the Economy? A Lot.
If you’ve been following the news, you know the economy is experiencing a lot of change. Inflation, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions make for a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable landscape. But if you’re a Junior Military Officer (JMO) considering a transition, one key aspect matters most: The labor market. Despite broader economic uncertainties, opportunities for strong leadership talent remain abundant, and companies are actively planning for the future. Our CEO, Chuck Alvarez, has observed these trends firsthand and has over 30 years of seeing how the economy can affect labor markets.
You can hear his insights in his latest LinkedIn video HERE as he explains how to navigate the economy and how the current state of the labor market impacts JMOs.
The Labor Market: What JMOs Need to Know
The labor market is just one part of the economy, but it’s a crucial one, especially for those transitioning into the business world. The good news? Things are actually pretty stable.
- Unemployment Rate: Currently in the low 4% range—historically a strong number.
- Job Openings: The latest JOLTS (Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey) shows a promising number of openings, with business turnover creating even more opportunities.
- Companies Are Hiring: Despite economic concerns, organizations continue to seek leadership talent and plan for the future.
Economic Uncertainty: The Bigger Picture
While the labor market remains solid, broader economic factors contribute to uncertainty:
- Federal Reserve’s Interest Rate Policies: To fight inflation, the Fed has kept interest rates high(er) for an extended period. While this slows certain sectors, it also means the Fed has room to cut rates if a downturn occurs, helping sustain economic growth.
- Geopolitical Strains: Global tensions impact markets and business confidence. Whether in Europe, Asia, or elsewhere, these uncertainties create unpredictability.
- Economic Warfare & Tariffs: Recent tariff discussions could disrupt global trade and business investment, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging economic environment.
Timing the Economy? A Losing Game.
Many people believe they should “wait for the right time” to make a career move. The truth? You can’t time the economy. The market will always have ups and downs, but opportunities remain. The key is to prepare and position yourself for success, regardless of external conditions.
Our Advice: Take Control of Your Future
Instead of waiting for the “perfect moment,” take charge of your future with these steps:
- Lead Your Life: Don’t let external factors dictate your career decisions.
- Develop a Plan: Set clear goals for yourself and your family—both personally and professionally.
- Educate Yourself: Research career options, industries, and potential paths. The more you know, the better decisions you can make.
- Ask the Right Questions: Where do you see yourself in five years? What obstacles might you face? Do you need or want help?
- Mitigate Risk: Engage with mentors, start early, and build a solid strategy.
“Fortune Favors the Prepared”
Regardless of economic conditions, those who plan ahead are always in the best position. Companies will continue searching for strong leaders and planning for the future. The key is to be proactive. Start with a good 5 year plan, and work backwards from there.
If you’re a JMO considering a transition to business and want to know more about your options as well as Cameron-Brooks and what we do, don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. We might not be right guide for you in the transition, but we can help you talk about your options and point you in the right direction.
With over 50+ years of helping non-tradition leadership talent like the JMO develop a plan, realize their business potential, along with our network, we’re here to help you build a strategy that works in any economy.
What’s next?
Stay tuned! Next week, we’re launching Episode 1 of a new 6-part series titled “The JMO Transition Rules to Business” via the Cameron-Brooks PCS to Corporate America Podcast. I’ll also be providing a preview to what we have in store for the April 2025 Career Conference!
Brock Dudley | (210) 874 – 1495 | bdudley@cameron-brooks.com | LinkedIn
Principal, Transition Coach
