A #socialsaturday tip for my transitioning service members. Your connections shouldn't all be veterans. I get it. There's a comfort in connecting with people who've chewed on the same dirt as you. But don't let it be a limitation. Here's what "civilian" civilians have taught me: - We service members or veterans don't "own" patriotism, leadership, teamwork, or the flag of our nation. - Civilians weren't institutionalized in the system that created us. They filter the world through different lenses leading them to innovative ideas we might not come to if the only people we engage with are fellow veterans. - This is going to sound crazy but as good as you are at whatever it is you want to do, many of them are as good or better. Keep an open mind and learn a thing or two. - They are part of your future. If you live the average American lifespan, you will spend more time as a civilian than you did as a service member. It would be incredibly sad for you to live a life of distrust with the vast majority of Americans. - Last one and this is going to sound counterproductive. They're not going to understand or care about your rank or position. Many will feel great appreciation for your service. But your relationships with them won't be built solely on who you were. They'll be built on who you are and who you become. So be someone worthy of building relationships with. My challenge to you this weekend? Send 10 connection requests to civilians who have no tie to the military. Search for 2nd connections who share your interests or industry and reach out. Start building relationships organically before you need them professionally. I'm making an exception for me this weekend so if you're sending a connection request to a fellow veteran, I'm #opentoconnect. 🙋♂️ If you don't have LinkedIn Premium, don't worry about sending me a note. I know you only get five connection requests a month. Just hit "connect." If you do have LI Premium, I'd love a note from you. Let's be of value to each other. #veteranshelpingveterans #militarytransition #relationshipsmatter #jvknows
Great Words!!
Great advice!
Good thoughts Jose Velazquez Jr.! I made a similar comment to this on a different post yesterday, that I think LinkedIn networking can expand your life knowledge in a professional way. There is absolutely value in connecting with 'civilians' in your career field or perspective career field, to learn more about how that field operates from the non-military perspective. I think in addition to that, using the 'Follow' button can help diversify your perspectives as you move from the familiarity of the military out into the relative unknown. Want to know more about leadership? Follow those that talk about how they lead and challenges they face. Want to know more about starting a business? Follow entrepreneurs, both successful and unsuccessful as they talk about lessons that they have learned. Want to expand your perspectives? Follow a diverse group with opinions different from your established viewpoints. If there is an area of interest, likely there are others here that share that interest! These won't all be connections, simply following and reading, then engaging with comments. But through that you will find connections that can help you grow as a person, not just in a career.
👈🏻 civilian here. The best coworkers I've had have been former military. Many of my connections on LinkedIn are currently exiting or formerly served. Many of my students and mentees served. I am #opentoconnect !!! Thank you for your service 🙏🏻
Great tips as usual Jose! It's fine to start along Veteran lines to begin the network building, but you definitely need to branch out and gain valuable insight from folks who did not spend time in the uniform. They have unique perspectives within their industries that you do not want to miss out on!
Thank you for the wise guidance as always Jose!
Great challenge Jose Velazquez Jr.
Jose, your insights continue to amaze and inspire!
Jose Velazquez Jr. Very interesting. Thank you for sharing
Logistics Manager | Life Cycle Logistics (LCL) | Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) | Cybersecurity - SCRM (C-SCRM) | Veteran
8moWhat's your advice for introverts? I, for one, am not equipped for social conversations outside of work-related business. That, and I have zero time during the work week to even think about trying to research potential connections. Have a great weekend.