You’ve earned the right to do something you love to do! It’s time to make your dream job a reality by combining your skills and qualifications with your passion.

MOAA can help you land that ideal position —the one that makes you leap out of bed and race into morning rush hour, ready to begin another fabulous day. The one where you do what you love and get paid what you’re worth. The one where you can excel, advance, and make a difference!

[RELATED: MOAA’s Job Board, Powered by Indeed]

Ready to get started? Take these simple steps to make your dream job come true. Want more? Watch a recent MOAA webinar on landing your dream job by registering at this link; MOAA Premium and Life members can find a webinar recording here (login required) as part of their access to MOAA’s extensive webinar archive:

1. Take Time for Self-Reflection

Assess your family’s priorities. Figure out what you value most, along with the kind of work that energizes and excites you.

As part of that process, identify that which is non-negotiable. Begin your search from there.

2. Network, Network, Network!

Grow and cultivate your network. While people may not want to be on the hook for “getting you a job,” they will want to help you shape your professional career naturally.

Some of your mentors, friends, and contacts will offer ideas and tools of the trade. Others may provide a glimpse into their own career journey, and what makes them successful.

Don’t just accept this vital information – make networking a two-way street by showing interest in their questions and goals.

[RELATED: More Networking Resources From MOAA]

3. Use Your Tools

You will need some key tools in your transition toolbox – and they need to be in their finest working order. Think:

• LinkedIn Profile: Learn to leverage social media.
• Résumé: Showcase your key skills, metrics, and accomplishments.
• Biography: Paint a positive, coherent picture (and have an easy way to introduce yourself during the networking process).
• Business Cards: Reinforce your connections with the basics – name, number, email, LinkedIn URL, QR code. Don’t forget to follow up after you’ve traded cards.

As you fine-tune your tools, you’ll also want to build your knowledge base. Informational interviews (network expansion) and interview preparation will be incredibly useful.

4. Attend TAP

Transition Assistance Programs provide key resources, contacts, and vital information, helping to ensure success after service.

Start early on critical, information-packed seminars, and ensure spouse involvement and participation.

More From MOAA

MOAA Premium and Life members have access to personalized career consultation services as well as other exclusive benefits; learn more about what’s offered at our Transition and Career Center.

Not a Premium or Life member? Check out MOAA.org/join for information on joining MOAA or upgrading your membership.