Vice Admiral Bruce Grooms (Ret.) shared extensive career insights and personal experiences to help military personnel transition successfully into civilian careers. The session, part of the NNOA’s fireside chat series, was moderated by fellow senior leaders and focused on networking, professional readiness, and the realities of post-military life.
Key Points from Admiral Grooms:
- Importance of Networking:
- Career transitions are heavily dependent on relationships.
- Most opportunities come from people you know—not resumes.
- Cultivate your network intentionally. Know personal details about key contacts to build authentic connections.
- Avoid only reaching out when you need something; maintain genuine relationships.
- Resume Advice:
- Resumes are necessary but rarely lead to jobs on their own.
- Most hiring is driven by referrals and internal contacts.
- Tailor each resume to a specific opportunity; don’t rely on generic versions.
- Job Interviews and Offers:
- Every conversation with a company is part of your interview.
- Research company executives, their writing, and public appearances before interviews.
- Be strategic in interviews—let the interviewer talk and show genuine interest.
- Never discuss compensation until an offer is made.
- Do not accept the first offer immediately; always pause and negotiate professionally.
- Consider all aspects of compensation: base salary, bonuses, stock options, 401(k), relocation packages, etc.
- Business Acumen:
- Understand profit and loss (P&L) fundamentals; it’s critical in the private sector.
- Learn how to read financial statements like 10-Ks and 10-Qs.
- Military officers should work to shed the perception that they lack business understanding.
- Defense Industry Transition:
- Most veterans move into defense industry roles—this is common and acceptable.
- These jobs can be volatile; always be thinking about your next move.
- Business development is a common entry point, but understanding P&L makes you more valuable and less expendable.
- Ethical Standards:
- The private sector may not always match military ethics. Be prepared to navigate gray areas without compromising your values.
- Maintain documentation when facing ethical concerns to protect yourself.
- Security Clearance & Planning:
- Be aware of timelines for periodic reinvestigations; these can affect post-service opportunities.
- Plan your retirement timing accordingly to maintain clearance eligibility.
- Advice for Junior Officers:
- Transition strategies may differ by rank, but networking and preparation remain key.
- Don’t rely solely on seniority or time served—strategize your exit based on career goals and opportunities.
- Balance loyalty with practicality—if a better opportunity arises post-transition, take it.
- Final Reflections:
- Know when it’s time to leave—don’t stay too long if upward mobility is unlikely.
- Value your skills and experience. Be ready to learn new things and adapt.
- Leverage organizations like NNOA for mentorship, networking, and honest feedback.
Closing Remarks:
Vice Admiral Grooms emphasized integrity, preparedness, and relationships as cornerstones of successful transitions. He encouraged attendees to reach out for support and continue lifting others as they advance.