Translating military experience to a civilian job
Many ex-military staff find it challenging to translate military experience into the civilian employment arena. If this is you, you might already know that it can be hard to know where to start, what to include on your resume and how to explain your military experience in civilian terms. Like all big changes, it can happen much smoother with preparation. Let’s take a look at some tips on making this transition. Create a transition planThe military has unique cultures so it’s not uncommon for discharged members to experience ‘culture shock’ when adjusting to civilian life and civilian workplaces. There are quite a few services and resources to support the transition including Open Arms. These services offer confidential one-on-one counselling to talk through any issues you or your family may be dealing with. This can help keep your mindset open to opportunity and your new chapter. Veterans looking to explore a career in tech could consider WithYouWithMe. This site also has a range of career assessment tools including aptitude and behavioural tests that can help you understand your potential careers in the civilian workforce. The Veteran Employment Toolkit is also a practical guide to planning your transition to the civilian workforce and is recommended by many veterans. Identify the job you’re seekingOnce you have an idea of the types of roles you are looking for, you can focus on bridging the gap between the skills and experience you already have, and those needed for the type of job that you want. You might need to complete a course or gain on the job experience to fill these gaps. Once you’ve decided on your desired job, you can then work backwards to identify the path to upskilling for your chosen job. Assess your transferable skillsFinding employment outside the ADF isn’t easy but understanding your skills is the first step in finding work that aligns with your post-transition employment goals. Ex-military staff sometimes sell themselves short and take whichever job they can get because they don’t realise how valuable their skill set is and how employable they are. For example, perhaps you managed or worked with a team, made on the fly and fast decisions, coordinated actions in high-stress environments or even thrived in ever-changing and chaotic environments. There are multiple soft skills in these examples. It’s just about taking the time to think about your experience and translate it to civilian life. You’ll be surprised at the number of skills you have! Some examples of transferable skills between military and civilian life include: Problem-solving Collaboration Critical thinkingResponsiveness Leadership Technology SkillsProject management Teamwork OrganisationAttention to detail Strong work ethic Technical writingManaging logistics and resources Understanding compliance, SoP’s and technical frameworks Self-sufficiency Australia’s military is one of the most highly skilled in the world. It’s likely you have qualifications, training, skills and experience that will make you a valuable member of the civilian workforce. Don’t underestimate the professional learning and development you have gained from your service. Identify and build networksNetworks are a great way to find new opportunities. In fact, a high percentage of jobs are still never advertised because they are able to fill the positions within their networks. Connect with ex-colleagues, family and friends and let them know you’re looking to transition back so they can keep their eye out for roles that might suit. You can also build your network by meeting people through others including ex-service organisations, sporting or other interest groups, and/or through social media. Great networks not only help to open up job opportunities, they also create a solid support structure and help you feel more connected in civilian life. Adjust your language to your new audienceYou’ve probably spent years speaking with particular terminology and phrases relevant to the military but in order to adjust to civilian life as an employee, you’ll need to focus on changing your language to match the way people speak in the type of job that you’re pitching for. Avoid using acronyms and make sure you translate any jargon into language that employers can understand. Employ a professional resume writerHiring a professional resume writer can take the stress out of the job search. The process also helps build confidence and gets you started on the right foot. Phil Mitchell, based on the NSW/VIC border, is particularly experienced in supporting veterans transition to civvy life. He works with clients one-on-one to help you create the perfect resume that combines your military experience with your relevant skills. Phil will also help you to explain your skillset in non-military terms. Obviously, you’re the expert when it comes to your military experience and similarly, it’s critical to employ an expert when it comes to marketing yourself for employment opportunities. As well as producing an outstanding resume, they can also assist you with publishing a LinkedIn profile and writing tailored cover letters for your job applications. It’ll be money well spent because selling yourself in the best possible light is necessary for your success. Please contact us today to help you get started in cracking the civilian employment market.
Mature Age Workers: Unlocking Opportunities for Job Seekers and Employers in Australia
Written by: Louise De Chiera, Successful Resumes South West Western Australia Are you wondering what it means to be a mature age worker? As I sit here contemplating this question, I find myself in my mid-40s, reflecting on my own professional journey. Despite having worked for myself over the past seven years, I can’t help but acknowledge that I may fall into the mature age bracket. If I were to enter the labour market and apply for a new position, I would likely be considered a mature age candidate, competing against individuals from various age groups. According to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, mature age workers are generally classified as individuals over the age of 45. This means that you may spend a significant portion of your working life, approximately twenty-two years, as a mature age worker until retirement at 67. That’s not even taking into consideration that an increasing number of people are choosing to work well beyond the age of 67, extending their careers into their 70s. If you are a mature age worker contemplating a job change or considering a career transition, it’s essential not to let age become a barrier. There is growing recognition of the value that mature age workers bring to organisations, prompting business owners, HR professionals, and recruiters to reconsider their perceptions. As a young twenty-year-old starting my career, I learned invaluable skills from colleagues aged over 45. I am grateful for the knowledge and experience they passed on. As a mature age worker, you possess life experience and a diverse range of skills that can greatly contribute to a business. Employing mature age workers offers numerous benefits: When applying for positions as a mature age worker, it’s important to communicate these advantages to prospective employers. How to avoid age bias Discrimination based on age, whether it’s favouring younger candidates or overlooking the skills and experience of mature age workers, can limit opportunities in the job market. Here are some simple tips to help avoid age bias during the recruitment process, consider the following tips: Reach out for support Jobs and SkillsWA offers support programs for mature age workers re-entering the workforce, including Skills Checkpoint, Skills and Training Incentives, and Work Bonuses that allow you to earn additional income without affecting pension payments. At Successful Resumes, we understand the unique experiences and challenges faced by mature age workers. Our team of writers, most of whom fall into this category, can relate to your situation. Contact any of our writers today to help identify your skills and tailor a compelling resume and cover letter for your next application. Ultimately, the mature age workforce presents a distinctive opportunity for both job seekers and employers in Australia. Excerpt: Are you a mature age worker considering a job change or career transition? Don’t let age be a barrier to your success! Discover the benefits of employing mature age workers and how to avoid age bias during the recruitment process. At Successful Resumes, we understand your unique experiences and challenges, and our expert writers can tailor a compelling resume and cover letter to showcase your skills. Take advantage of the distinctive opportunities in the mature age workforce. Contact us today!
Why you shouldn’t create a resume using ChatGPT
ChatGPT took the world by storm in late 2022. The chatbot created by open.ai quickly went viral on social media with users showing the enormous capability of the platform. Next you know, we’re all using the tool to help with travel planning, writing code, creating content, and even writing resumes. It’s no surprise people are attracted to using automated tools to create their resumes. It’s fast, easy and on the surface, looks like a solid option to speed up job search success. But while it might seem low-cost, convenient and time-saving, there are drawbacks to relying solely on generative AI to tell your career story. Let’s delve into the reasons why you should think twice before using generative AI to write your resume. Lack of Personalisation One of the major drawbacks of generative AI is its tendency to produce generic content. Resumes crafted by AI algorithms lack a personal touch and uniqueness that can make you stand out from other candidates. Since the AI system generates templates based on pre-existing data, there is a high probability of sounding just like countless other applicants, diluting your individuality and making it harder for employers to put you in the ‘interview’ pile. Unintentional Mistakes and Misrepresentations AI like ChatGPT relies on vast datasets to create content, but it can’t accurately capture the nuances and intricacies of your professional experiences and achievements. AI algorithms can inadvertently produce incorrect or misleading information in your resume, leading to potential misunderstandings during the hiring process. Trusting AI blindly may result in misrepresenting your skills, qualifications, or work history, which can seriously harm your credibility. Limited Contextual Understanding Resumes are not just about listing your skills and experiences; they are an opportunity to tell your story and demonstrate why you are the right fit for a particular role. Generative AI algorithms lack contextual understanding and are not able to grasp the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for. This limitation can lead to irrelevant information or the omission of crucial details that would have otherwise highlighted your suitability for the position. The key to a fantastic resume is making it relevant and meaningful to the reader. The document should present you as the solution to their need by tying the role requirements to your capability. Inability to Reflect Your Voice and Style Your resume is a reflection of your personal brand and professional identity. It should authentically represent your voice, values, and unique attributes. At least for now, generative AI can’t capture your individual writing style, tone, or personality. Relying solely on AI-generated content is more than likely going to give you a resume that feels impersonal and detached, lacking the essence of who you are as a professional. Worst case scenario, it looks and sounds a lot like other resumes they have received, also written by AI. Human Touch and Expertise Resume writing requires a human touch. A skilled professional resume writer will provide you with new insights into your unique strengths and capabilities and tailor your resume while understanding the intricacies of the job market. Professional resume writers possess the knowledge and experience to optimise your resume for specific roles, highlight your strengths, and craft compelling narratives that resonate with potential employers. Their expertise ensures that your resume is tailored to your unique background, showcases your accomplishments effectively, and maximises your chances of standing out. While generative AI has its advantages in various domains, relying solely on it to create your resume can be a gamble. The lack of personalisation, potential for mistakes or misrepresentations, limited contextual understanding, inability to reflect your voice, and the absence of human expertise are compelling reasons to opt for a more personalised and human-centric approach when it comes to crafting your resume. To make a lasting impression on employers and increase your chances of securing interviews, consider seeking the assistance of a professional resume writer who will draw out your unique strengths and capabilities to create a tailored and impactful resume that truly represents who you are as a candidate. Investing in a professionally written resume will ensure that you present yourself in the best possible light and enhance your prospects in today’s competitive job market.
What to do when you’ve lost interest in your job
We all have days where we feel like we’re just going through the motions at work. But when those days turn into weeks or even months, and you find yourself dreading going to work each day, it might be a sign that you’ve lost interest in your job. This can be a difficult and frustrating situation to be in, but there are steps you can take to regain your motivation and find fulfilment in your career again! Identify the source of your disinterest The first step in addressing your disinterest in your job is to identify the source of the problem. Ask yourself: What specifically is causing me to feel unmotivated at work? Is it a lack of challenge or growth opportunities? Is it a difficult relationship with a co-worker or manager? Is it a misalignment between your values and the company’s mission? Identifying the root cause will help you determine what steps you need to take to address the issue. Challenge your thinking to change how you feel. Before taking bigger steps to solve the problem, first test if reframing can help change the way you’re feeling. One of the best ways to get excited about your work is by focusing on what you like about it. Focusing on the positives can be a powerful tool to help you regain interest. One way to do this is by making a list of all the things you like about your job. This could include things like: Once you have your list, take some time to reflect on each item and think about how it makes you feel. Try to focus on the emotions that each positive aspect of your job evokes. For example, if you love that you get paid well for your work, think about how that makes you feel. Perhaps it gives you a sense of security or allows you to feel more financially stable. Talk to your manager Once you’ve identified the source of your disinterest, it’s important to communicate your concerns with your manager. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but the more open and communicative you can be the more likely you will be able to work with your manager to come up with solutions that work for everyone. Be honest and specific about what’s causing your disinterest and what you would like to see changed. Talk to your boss about any opportunities for growth or development within the company, and don’t be afraid to ask for new challenges. Find ways to reignite your passion If your manager is unable to offer a solution that meets your needs, or if you’re not ready to leave your job just yet, it’s important to find ways to reignite your passion for your work. Look for new challenges or projects within your current role that you find interesting. This can help you see your job in a new light and regain your motivation. Alternatively, consider taking on new responsibilities or volunteering for projects outside of your job that align with your interests. Invest in your professional development Another way to regain your motivation and interest in your job is to invest in your professional development. This can include attending conferences or workshops, taking courses, or working with a mentor or coach. Not only will this help you develop new skills and knowledge, but it can also provide new perspectives and insights into your job. Consider career counselling Seeking support from a career counsellor or coach can be a great way to explore your interests and identify new career paths that align with your passions and goals. A career counsellor can help you envision success. What would your ideal job look like? How would you feel if you had the perfect career? Getting clarity on your skills, interests and passions can help you feel inspired and enthusiastic about your future next steps. Consider a career change If you’ve tried all of the above steps and still find yourself disinterested in your job, it may be time to consider a career change. This can be a difficult decision to make, but it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to pursue a career that aligns with your interests and passions. Take the time to research new industries and positions that interest you, and reach out to your network for advice and connections. Losing interest in your job can happen to anyone. However, by focusing on the positives, reframing your mindset, taking on new challenges, and seeking support, you can regain your enthusiasm and find joy in your work again. Reach out to the team at Successful Resumes Australia to see how we can support you find a career you love.
Soft Skills vs Hard Skills: What’s the Difference?
In today’s job market, employers are not just looking for candidates who have technical expertise but also for people who have the right mix of personality traits and abilities that can help them succeed in the workplace. These personality traits and abilities are referred to as soft skills, while the technical expertise is called hard skills. Understanding the difference between the two and why both are important, can not only help you stand out but create the career you’ve always wanted. What Are Hard Skills? Hard skills are specific and measurable technical abilities that are often job-specific and acquired through formal education, training, or experience. Typically they are quantifiable and teachable and can include knowing how to use specific tools, platforms, or computer programs as well as how to perform tasks and processes that are required to do a job. Hard skills are essential for carrying out the tasks and responsibilities of a job and are often listed as requirements in job descriptions. Examples of Hard Skills Technical skills: These are skills related to using specific software, tools, or equipment. Examples include proficiency in programming languages, graphic design software, or operating heavy machinery.Analytical skills: These skills involve the ability to analyse data, solve complex problems, and make data-driven decisions. Examples include statistical analysis, financial analysis, and strategic planning.Project management skills: These skills include the ability to plan, organise, and execute projects effectively. Examples include setting timelines, delegating tasks, and managing budgets.Language proficiency: The ability to communicate in multiple languages is a valuable hard skill in today’s globalised world.Writing and editing skills: These skills involve the ability to write and edit various types of content such as reports, proposals, copywriting, and marketing materials.Marketing skills: These skills include the ability to create and execute marketing campaigns, conduct market research, and analyse consumer behaviour.Sales skills: The ability to persuade and influence others to make a purchase is a valuable hard skill in sales-oriented roles.Data entry and analysis: These skills involve the ability to accurately enter and analyse large amounts of data, such as financial records or customer information.What are in-demand hard skills in 2023 LinkedIn has reported the most in-demand hard skills across the world in 2023 are: Software developmentSQLFinancePythonJavaData analysisJavaScriptCloud computingOperationsCustomer relationship managementEmployers often list hard skills in job descriptions because, typically, they are required to be successful in performing the duties or responsibilities of the job. For this reason, most job candidates expect that if they have the right technical skills for the role, they’ll be considered for the job however as the world of work changes, having hard skills alone is not enough. This is where soft skills come in. What Are Soft Skills? Soft skills are non-technical abilities that are often more difficult to measure than hard skills but are just as important in the workplace. These skills include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, leadership, creativity, emotional intelligence, and time management. Unlike hard skills, soft skills are not learned through formal education or training programs. They are often developed over time through life experiences, personal growth, and interactions with others. They are unique to the individual rather than the environment so are transferable between industries and occupations, which makes them valuable assets in any career. Why Are Soft Skills Important? Soft skills are the glue between all the things we do. They build relationships, facilitate teamwork, and influence how we approach problems. They help us effectively collaborate with colleagues, communicate with clients and customers, and adapt to changing circumstances in the workplace. Understanding your soft skills can give you much deeper insight into the types of roles you will feel naturally confident in. If you’re an efficient, multitasker who enjoys difficult problems, you will thrive in a role where you can use those skills. If you’re creative and like to think outside the box you’re probably not suited to a role that is rigid with no autonomy. Knowing your unique mix of skills can often be the first step to carving out a career you will love. From the other perspective, employers look for candidates who possess soft skills that are aligned with the needs of the role because this is what will distinguish a successful employee from someone who will struggle to perform. Their reputation as the magic ingredient has meant that the demand for soft skills is on the rise across industries. According to LinkedIn data, 45% of jobs posted on the platform identify communication skills as a priority. LinkedIn also reported that since the pandemic, these ‘people skills’, have become more powerful than ever with some even calling soft skills, “the currency of the future workplace”. The Importance of a Balance between Soft Skills and Hard Skills While it’s the hard skills that often get a candidate hired, it’s the soft skills that make them really good at their job. There isn’t much value in knowing how to code an app if you don’t have the communication and teamwork skills to really understand how the app will be used. A balance between the two means you’re working solidly in your strengths zone and this is a surefire way to not only feel good about the work you are doing but be great at it too. To sum up, while hard skills are essential in many job roles, soft skills are equally important to perform well and thrive in the workplace. It’s no surprise then that employers look for candidates who possess a balance of both. Understanding what your skills are and what skills you would like to have can be done through self-reflection, seeking feedback, and actively working on your personal growth. By doing so, you’re not only working towards a career that is successful but one that is deeply fulfilling as well. If you would like help to understand your skills, reach out to the team at Successful Resumes for a quick career development session. A small investment of time is sure to have a big impact on your career.
Mining Resumes
How to Write a Standout Mining Resume for the Australian Job Market Whether you’re stepping into FIFO life for the first time or ready to take your mining career to the next level, your resume is one of the most important tools you have. In a high-risk, high-regulation industry like mining, your resume needs to do more than just list your job history. It should show that you’re site-ready, safety-focused and capable of handling the unique demands of the industry. So, what makes a mining resume work? Let’s walk through the essentials. Mining Resumes Are Not Like Regular Resumes Mining and resources employers look for very specific skills and credentials. A generic resume won’t cut it. You’ll need to demonstrate: A well-written resume can help you stand out from hundreds of applicants by clearly showing your experience and qualifications in a way that’s professional, targeted, and formatted for applicant tracking systems (ATS). Why Many Mining Resumes Miss the Mark We see it all the time. Resumes in the mining sector are often: Your resume should show your readiness to work on-site, not just describe past roles. Employers want to see evidence of safe, skilled and reliable work. What to Include in a Strong Mining Resume Licences, Tickets and Certifications Keep this section front and centre. Include: Machinery and Systems Experience If you’ve operated CAT dump trucks, Komatsu excavators or underground drill rigs, make sure to list them. Also include systems you’ve used, such as Pitram, MineStar or SAP. Clear, Safety-Focused Job History Use practical examples, not just job titles. For example: “Completed over 1,200 incident-free hours operating CAT 793 trucks on a 2:1 roster at Moranbah.” FIFO or Remote Work Experience Fly-in-fly-out or remote experience is a big plus. Make it clear if you’ve worked shift rotations, camp-based jobs or handled site isolation challenges. Want a Resume That Gets You on Site? At Successful Resumes, we specialise in helping tradespeople, operators, and mining professionals write resumes that get noticed. We don’t use templates or AI-generated content. Every resume is written by a local expert who understands the industry and what recruiters are looking for. We help you: Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s help you land the interview. Whether you’re moving into a new FIFO role or applying for a leadership position, a professionally written mining resume can make all the difference. Chat with your local resume writer today and start your next career move with confidence.
