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Transitioning from a military career to a private sector or government job isn't easy. In some ways, going to work for the government makes that transition easier—you're still in touch with familiar structures and will probably encounter less resistance to your special needs from coworkers and bosses.

As you seek a government job, be proud of your special status as a military vet and keep an eye out for hurdles you might encounter. Take this advice to heart and you'll slide smoothly into your new life.

Graduate School as Preparation for Civilian Life

Take time between getting out of the military and entering the workforce to get a graduate degree in your field of interest. A year or two in graduate school allows you to settle back into regular living and advances your skills so you can score a great government job.

Get your VMET (Verification of Military Experience and Training) as soon as you separate from military service. When you request information from graduate programs, ask if they need to see the VMET right away or if you should include it later in the enrollment process.

Use your current skills and future career goals to tailor your graduate degree in government and public policy to match. If you have leadership skills, a Master of Public Administration might be perfect for you. If you worked with indigenous populations, a Master of International Affairs or a concentration in Diplomatic Studies might fit.

Getting a Government Job

Network with other government workers who have transitioned out of the military. They've been where you are so ask for advice and support. Soon, you'll be able to return the help to other newly-minted government employees.

Develop patience and humility. Getting a government job is a drawn-out process filled with interviews, applications, tests, questions, more interviews... Be patient with the process. Learn to take orders from superiors and give them to co-workers with grace and style. Civilians have different expectations than military personnel.

You've heard it before—but watch out for PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect any military veteran (not just those who served in combat). Mild PTSD takes the form of down moods or depression, isolation, and being uncomfortable in many situations in civilian life. Don't let even mild PTSD symptoms linger. Talk to a professional.

More info on entering a government career after leaving a military career can be found at GovCentral.com. Go to military.com for specific active military and retired military information.

Learn "How to Negotiate a Higher Government Salary" or find out more about graduate programs in Government and Public Policy.

Go beyond “entry level” government jobs with a master's degree program. Check out the GraduateSchools.com government graduate programs finder.