Regardless of whether you serve for 3 or 33 years, leaving can be daunting! Life beyond service can be discombobulating! Finding your way can feel tricky and landing the right job can be a challenge. The good news is that you are not alone (16,000 service leavers do this every year). Everyone I have spoken to says how generous people are with their time and advice. Here is what worked for me:
- Take a break. I was tired after 30+ years of service. But I didn’t recognise it and I was at risk of not seeing the “Bigger Picture”.
- Spill the tea. Embrace your network to help work out what you want AND most importantly what you don’t want to do!
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Work out Why. You only live once, so "Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire" (Jennifer Lee). Purpose, Passion, People, Position, Place and Pay - these answered “My Why” and led me to BFBS Creative.
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LinkedIn Works. Doom scrolling with intent can bring big rewards. I spotted a new role; “Head of Inclusion – to expand BFBS Creative’s Diversity and Inclusion services”. First impressions got me interested. As it had just appeared on LinkedIn, I thought I would reflect, research and return to it. About a week later (before ruminations were complete!), a LinkedIn “inmail” message from the BFBS HR team arrived; asking if I was interested in the role! I had no idea that they could see that I had looked at it! After a number of interviews (including by my peer group – brilliant way to see if you are going to be a good fit!), I was extremely excited to be offered the job!
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What good looks like. Caring, compassionate, committed, capable, collaborative and curious people. Add in real purpose and great culture - where “I’ve got your back” is still a thing. Embrace unexpected challenges; they will often become opportunities to grow and learn.
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Service. Someone wise said you can’t lead until you serve. The need to serve and support others remains as strong as the need to belong. I am super lucky to continue to “serve” AND belong with the brilliant people at BFBS Creative.
Finally, even if you struggle with imposter syndrome you, and your skills/ experience, are much in demand! You have to work out what you most want to do, why and with whom!
