Whether you are contemplating your military-to-civilian transition or already established in the civilian sector and seeking career advancement, changing jobs is an intricate process. Regardless of the reasons that brought you to this point, it's important to realize all military officers have a wide variety of skills, experiences, and passions to offer. And, because you do many things well, you might find it difficult to assess what is right for you at these crossroads. For example:

• Should I seek a position that uses my transferable military skills or embark on a radically new course?
• Do I align better with a Fortune 500 company or should I pursue something more entrepreneurial?
• Is now the right time to buy a business, become a consultant, head to a graduate program, or enter public service?

As you can imagine, the possibilities are infinite. Understanding who you are and what you would like to achieve requires much introspection and consultation. Speaking with former colleagues, gaining insights from mentors, and availing yourself of career assessment tools can help you think through and analyze your choices about what might be the best career path for you.

Remember, understanding what you can contribute to an organization can give you a competitive edge.