Transitioning From Military to Civilian Healthcare Careers

sustained networking, including acquiring experiences outside military command and control structures. Myths vs. Realities Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 5 Myths vs.<br><br> Realities " Search firm executives report that when they present a military candidate for a C-Suite search, that individual may not be viewed competitively Perceptions of reliance on command and control vs. collaboration/consensus-driven leadership styles Limited experience with developing joint ventures, particularly with medical staff Perceptions of limited skills/experiences needed to meet the challenges of a competitive environment Assignments toward the end of the individual 9s military career may involve policy more than operations Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 6 Myths vs. Realities " Advantages that military officers can focus on Leadership skills Strategic focus Perform well under pressure Physically fit and high energy level Technologically advanced and savvy Goal-and results-oriented Affordable (salary history relative to candidates from civilian sector) Easier to relocate given military career experience and military relocation benefit available upon discharge/retirement Solutions Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 8 Solutions " Be realistic about the role of executive search firms Understand that the client of the search firm is the employing organization, not the candidate searching for a position " Be realistic about the level you are seeking Be prepared for a multisteptransition to first demonstrate effectiveness in the civilian sector before advancing to more senior-level positions Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 9 Solutions " Be realistic about the type of position you are seeking Look for ways to get your foot in the door Large systems may be seeking officers 9expertise in supply chain management, executing large capital projects or other technical/functional specialties " Be realistic about the impact of blind inquiries that have limited impact Direct mailing of unsolicited resumes Cold calling Responding to ads or listings Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 10 Solutions " Gain experiences in the civilian sector Involvement in ACHE local chapters when stationed in the United States Voluntary organization leadership in non-command and control situations " Learn the language of the civilian healthcare sector Demonstrate that you understand the framework/ environment of the civilian sector by speaking its language " Note involvement in continuing education outside the military (e.g., ACHE seminars; earning board certification as an ACHE Fellow) Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 11 Solutions " Translate your resume to a form that a civilian search committee will understand Reflect measurable accomplishments, as well as leadership, problem-solving and change management skills/experiences Highlight any collaborative cwin-win defforts with physicians Numbers by themselves may not impress (budget, unit size); focus on relevant comparisons to civilian healthcare settings Include awards/citations judiciously Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 12 Solutions " The most important key to success is sustained networking 4beginning years before your planned separation from active duty " Networking involves developing and maintaining ongoing relationships/communication 4not just when you need assistance Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 13 Solutions " Network at multiple levels, seeking insight and advice and forming professional bonds Network with former military officers personally known to you and who already have made the transition to the civilian sector Network with former military officers not personally known to you and who already have made the transition Network with civilians known to you, especially while on assignment in the United States Network with civilians not already known to you Executive Search Firm Observations, 11/2007 14 Solutions 15 Addendum: Selected ACHE Resources " Affiliates Only, Career Resources on ache.org Online Employment Service Mentoring & Networking Resources Healthcare Competencies Assessment Tool Job Search Skills Audio/Web Conference " ACHE Healthcare Executive Career Resource Center Assessments and Workshops " Tyler's Guide: The Healthcare Executive's Job Search , Third Edition by J.<br><br> Larry Tyler, FACHE, FAAHC, Health Administration Press (includes materials on transitioning from the military)

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