VILSECK, Germany (Dec. 16, 2013) -- The job market is tough. Add an overseas tour, limited quantity of occupational choices, a large quantity of talent, and trying to find a job can be downright disheartening.
If you look hard enough, or perhaps in the right places, however, opportunities are bound to present themselves, and Army Community Service is a good place to start.
Numerous classes, including "Let's Talk Jobs," offer the community an opportunity to gain insider knowledge on navigating the USAJobs system, and hear success stories firsthand.
The format for the Dec. 11 "Let's Talk Jobs" class has changed, replacing human resource managers with professionals in the field.
According to Rhani Ellis, Employment Readiness Program manager, USAG Bavaria ACS, the change will provide a more intimate view of the job market here.
"They can tell you what to expect or what to do because they've done it," she said. "It's coming straight from the source."
The panelists for the Dec. 11 event included Kathy Aydt, Deputy Garrison Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria; Audrey Binder, director, USAG Bavaria's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation; and Judy Brown, Community Bank manager.
Held in round-table format, the subject matter experts answered question and offered advice to more than 30 job seekers.
They come from unique backgrounds: Binder, a former Soldier, Aydt starting as military spouse, and Brown, also a military spouse who began her career as a volunteer. Their disparate backgrounds, however, provided a mixed bag of commercial industry knowledge.
While their paths to success were quite different, they all agreed that being diverse and open to new experiences helped them garner success.
"Success is a formula of motivation, ability, knowledge and opportunity," said Binder. "The more diverse you are in experience, the more marketable you'll be."
Aydt agreed, adding: "Take a job, or volunteer in an area that might not be a perfect match, but has room to grow."
Articulating your end goal is important when navigating the Army system, said Aydt, as it allows for continued growth.
"I've seen every grade, some twice, but I did it for a deliberate reason," she said. "If your organization knows what you want, or where you want to go, they can help you achieve that goal."
Brown, who will complete her master's degree at the age of 60, said it's never too late to begin or advance a career.
"We all start somewhere," said Brown. "And once you start, you can begin to grow."
All three panelists agreed that they are always looking for that next talent, that person who stands out.
And while the market is competitive, in the end the community is designed to help people succeed in their employment endeavors.
"We don't want to just give you a job," said Binder. "We want to give you a career, the career you want."
For more information on upcoming classes to help navigate the job market, contact ACS at 476-2234, Civ. 09662-83-2234.
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