For many, Thanksgiving revolves around family, friends, feasting, football, and simply giving thanks. For those who recently underwent their military-to-civilian transition, landed a promotion, secured new employment, or launched a new business venture, the holiday is great opportunity for reflection: Considering how you’ve achieved your new role, who helped along the way … and what’s next. 

To manage this transition – and others you’ll encounter in the future – MOAA’s team of experts recommends these simple, easy, yet often-overlooked steps:

Thank Everyone 

Reach out to all those who played a role in your transition. Use this holiday break to share your gratitude. No matter how big or small their contribution, they each made a critical difference to your success.

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Share the News

Now that you’ve thanked your inner circle, reach beyond that group and inform your network about your next step. Tell them where you landed and share your new contact information.

Working with transitioning servicemembers, I can’t tell you how many have landed a role in the civilian world but seem to be keeping it a secret, at least going by their LinkedIn profile.

[RELATED: Follow MOAA on LinkedIn | Subscribe to Our LinkedIn Newsletter] 

Stay Connected

Let those in your network know you will keep in touch – and then do it.

When people are networking, they often worry more about expanding their contact list than keeping up with those already on it. Don’t neglect these personal and professional connections; the holiday season is a great time to foster relationships and reconnect in a meaningful way.

[RELATED: More Networking and Social Media Resources From MOAA] 

Stay Ready

About 200,000 servicemembers transition from the military each year, but studies show nearly 50% will change jobs within the first few years of joining the civilian workforce. This not necessarily a negative thing: You may find a new position that more closely aligns with your professional aspirations, or one that offers career advancement.

As a civilian, you are always in transition, so keep your self-marketing materials (such as your résumé and cover letter) updated!

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Take a Break

You earned it! Military service is demanding, and the transition process may not be much different – more than 1 in 4 respondents to a Pew Research Center study called their reentry into civilian live either “somewhat difficult” or “very difficult.” The report outlines some of the unique challenges and stressors faced during transition, including how family issues and post-traumatic stress can complicate the process.

[RELATED: Mind the Gap: Should You Take a Break After Leaving Service or Between Jobs?]

Over this Thanksgiving holiday, stay in the moment, cherish your family and friends, and consider these steps as you prepare to embark upon your next adventure!