If you're trading in your uniform during this sour economy, you'd better learn fast how to maneuver in the civilian job market. Otherwise, you'll probably be unemployed for a long, long time. These days with all the branches trimming ranks, it'll be harder to get back in once you leave. If you are determined to leave active duty, consider remaining in the reserves. Start preparing for your job search early.
Experts say it can take six months to a year to find a job.
Generally speaking, the better the job, the longer the wait. Make a list of the jobs you'd like to do. Then find out if there's much hiring going on in those fields. Scan help-wanted ads in newspapers and special publications like The Wall Street Journal's National Business Employment Weekly. Once you have a feel for the job market and a hunch about what you'd like to do, try your base's free employment assistance services before you hire somebody to counsel you.