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cover of episode Life After The Military: Colonel (Retired) Kirby Watson

Life After The Military: Colonel (Retired) Kirby Watson

2022/4/21
logo of podcast Life After The Military

Life After The Military

Shownotes Transcript

Do you want to learn the lessons of what to do and what not to do IOT to have a low stress and highly successful transition from the military to the public or private sector?

Did you say “YES?

Then check out the newest @pivotalmomentsmedia @charliemikevets #lifeafterthemilitary podcast with Army Colonel (Retired) Kirby Watson!

Kirby is one of the finest, most authentic, and genuinely caring leaders that our co-host, Howie Cohen, EVER served with during his 27+ year military career!

Kirby spent 33 years as an Army Signal Officer and candidly discusses everything he did right and wrong

  • what he did wrong while transitioning - overscheduling interviews, not focusing on one area of need, not properly informing colleagues of the transition
  • what he got right - focusing on finding a good team, taking advantage of the TAP program, being honest about his health state, sourcing colleagues and job applications and honest company reviews through his LinkedIn network, carefully preparing for interviews
  • Discusses how he transitioned out as a veteran by taking the initiative to seek out mentors and carefully going through each step leading up to the job search process

Howie, Lee and Kirby implore listeners to

  • Be honest about medical needs during the transition
  • Put yourself and your needs (and the needs of your family) first
  • Connect with colleagues on LinkedIn and extensively research positions
  • Focus on team building rather than resume building

Kirby also shares advice and guidance for veterans looking to enter the government contracting space and what mental fitness means to him 

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