June 4, 2024
I was asked how I transitioned from being a military leader to a corporate leader, and what my leadership style is.
It’s a really good question that most veterans struggle with when transitioning out of service.
Here are my thoughts on how to go from the Military to Civilian world.
Becoming an Individual Contributor
I decided I was going to be an individual contributor.
That’s a big thing that a lot of people don’t understand — you are going to be an individual contributor before you’re a leader again, regardless of whether you were an officer or enlisted.
Your previous rank doesn’t matter in this transition.
Leadership and Decision-Making
You’ll find that your counterparts or contemporaries – five or six others doing the exact same job as you – often freeze and don’t have the ability to make decisions.
They are afraid of looking bad because they don’t understand that most decisions can be reversed.
Conclusion
What I’ve learned is that being willing to make decisions – even as an individual contributor – sets you apart.
While your role might change, that military confidence in decision-making is something worth keeping.
The key is knowing when to use it.
Remember these three things:
- You start as an individual contributor, regardless of your previous rank in the military.
- Decision-making is a differentiator. Military experience can still confidence in making decisions.
- Knowing when to lead is key. Success in the corporate world requires adapting your approach.