I did an interview with my good friend and fellow military spouse Carrie Cook about PCSing and finding a job. She has moved several times and has a lot of experience with job searching after a PCS.
What are some types for finding a job after PCSing?
Don’t give up. It took me almost a full year in Hawaii to get the job I wanted. Granted I was working doing temp and part time work to stay busy but just keep applying to jobs. Even if it isn’t the exact position you want but you know you want to work for that company apply, get your foot in the door that is most important. Also if you have a contact or know someone who wants to help you out always accept it. It doesn’t mean you’re weak, we all know how hard it is to find a new job.
Do you have any tips for writing a resume?
My tips for writing a resume are you have to sell yourself. Even if you did something you don’t think is pertinent put it on your resume. Also have more than one resume. For example I have one for different types of jobs I am applying to whether it be in a hospital setting or elsewhere. And I try to use the buzz words in the job description in my resume.
How do you deal with having to virtually start your career over every time you PCS?
I stay positive and persistent. I apply to anything and everything at the companies I am interested in working at. Each PCS I gain new experience and wisdom and I use that to help me deal with it because I know in the long run it is making me stronger and more resilient. Each PCS allows me to reflect on my career and choose which path I want and gives me an opportunity to make a change if I want to.
I think Carrie was able to provide some great tips for finding work after PCSing. I know this is a big issue that many of us deal with. Hopefully some of her tips will be able to help some of you.
What a great idea! There are so many spouses out there who every 3 years or so have to start over. I am not in the work force right now but I can’t imagine it is easy to constantly be readjusting to different work environments.