Myth v. Reality: Life After the Military

Category:

Veteran Resources

Date: Author:

INvets

Let the INvets team help you get set up for success after service by busting these common myths.

An estimated 200,000 people leave military service each year. If you’re thinking of getting out, you probably have questions about the best way to set yourself up for success after service. 

Leaving the military and stepping into civilian life is a big life transition and it’s natural to have some worries about what comes next. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths out there that can make this transition seem scarier than it really is. 

Let’s break down some of these myths and talk about the realities of finding a job and settling into life after your service.

Myth 1: “Veterans Don’t Have Many Job Options.”

One of the biggest misconceptions is that veterans are limited in what they can do after leaving the military. The truth? Your military experience has likely given you a wide range of skills that are valuable in multiple careers and industry sectors. 

Whether it’s leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, or technical know-how, these are exactly the skills that many employers are looking for. From manufacturing to tech, healthcare, and beyond, there’s a place for your skills in the workforce.

Myth 2: “Civilian Employers Won’t Get My Military Experience.”

It’s easy to worry that civilian employers won’t understand or appreciate what you did in the military. While some employers might not be familiar with military roles, many companies are working hard to change that. Take the INvets partner network, for example…

Our team has built a network of hundreds of employers open to hiring military talent because they know the value former service men and women bring to the table. Learn more about our partner companies here.

Myth 3: “Finding a Job Will Be the Hardest Part.”

Job hunting can be tough for anyone, but many veterans say that adjusting to the civilian workplace culture is challenging. The good news is that there is plenty of support to help you navigate this transition. 

From veteran-focused job fairs to mentorship programs and networking events, there are many resources to help you get comfortable in your new role and grow your career.

Myth 4: “I’ll Make Less Money in a Civilian Job.”

Another common myth is that you’ll have to settle for a lower salary than your salary earned in military service. But that’s not always the case. Many veterans find that their military experience helps them land well-paying jobs in today’s job market. 

Worried about managing it all after you leave the military? You don’t have to go it alone. We’ve compiled some helpful financial resources to ease the burden for veteran families here

Myth 5: “All Veterans Struggle with the Transition to Civilian Life.”

While the transition can be tough, it’s important to remember that not all veterans struggle. Many make the switch smoothly, especially with the right support.

We’ve built a strong network of resources to help veterans and their families adjust, including job placement, financial advice, and personal guidance with our Veteran Engagement team. With our help, you can tackle any challenges that come your way.

Myth 6: “I’m On My Own After Leaving the Military.”

Each person’s journey out of the military is different, but no matter what your journey looks like you are not alone. Whether you need assistance with job placement, housing, healthcare, or just want to connect with other veterans, there are plenty of people and resources both within and outside of government to back you up.

At INvets, our team of veterans and active-duty team members serves as a bridge from military service to civilian success. We are dedicated to helping former military members find work they feel good about and a place to call home in Indiana through our network of employers across the state.

Helping Veterans Transition to Civilian Life 

Leaving the military is a big step, but it’s also the start of an exciting new chapter. By cutting through the myths and focusing on the realities, you can approach this transition with confidence. 

Indiana offers a welcoming community and a wealth of opportunities to help you succeed in your civilian career. At INvets, we are by veterans for veterans, and we’ve built a network of partner employers across the state ready to welcome your skills to Indiana.

Our team is focused on helping former service members and their families find job placement, community, and place to call home in the Hoosier State. Become a member and start browsing open jobs for veterans today!