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Recently posted to a new area, returning to work after your fourth baby, or just looking for a new job? Here are some quick time-saving job search tips from military spouses who have (you guessed it) "been there, done that!"
Military Spouse
Job Hunting
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Be Prepared
Have your voice mail system in place and make sure you have an appropriate email address. Though tide_me_over69 @gspot is great to give potentials at the night club, you may want to consider your other email, depending on the employer. Always have an up-to-date resume ready and on hand - even if you are not currently looking for work. You never know when you might meet a potential employer at a mess function or pub-crawl night.
Update and Downgrade
Have copies of your resume on your computer ready to edit so you can change the content to match the requirements of the job you're applying for, but the contact information and your opening and closing paragraphs won't need to be changed. Downgrade your education level as necessary to avoid the inevitable employer excuse, “You’re too over-qualified for this job.” Since most of your university degrees are useless at places that are willing to hire a Military Wife, it’s best to put them away until you get a divorce or join the military yourself.
Spice Up Your Resume
Updating your resume isn't just about adding your most recent jobs. Try to keep your resume current by updating your skills and reviewing the layout of your resume every so often. That course you took through the MFRC last week could be just what you need to land your next job. Use some action words to describe specifics of past jobs. So, instead of “made coffee to sell at drive through window” try, “Enabled customers to remain physically motivated through service of caffeinated beverages”.
Keep your eyes open
Search the local MFRC and grocery store job boards, watch for signs in windows, and put the word out with friends. Use job search engine sites to search the major job banks, company sites, associations, and other sites. Look for posting most likely to hire a post-secondary/ college/ university educated military wife: bars, night clubs, cleaning companies, coffee shops, fast food service, clothing retail, food retail, hotels/inns, esthetics (with proper training), pet sitters.