Hi Pete,

I was made redundant from the RAF in 1996 and struggled for the first couple of years but moved into health and safety and have never looked back. There have been lots of posts over the years from servicemen leaving and asking similar questions to yours so have a search on the forums. One of the key things is to 'civilianise' your CV and remove any uneccessary military speak and jargon. You can't get away from the fact that you were in the military (an a lot of companies do like the work ethic etc), but concentrate on your key achievements and how your skills are transferrable into the new life. Your carreers / resettlement people should also be able to give you some guidance.

I can't really comment on the work experience element, especially in your location ( I was once stationed near Cambeltown) but I am sure there are some contributors who could. Best of luck with your future career.

Pete,
I must agree with all the other guys comments. I have been out of the army for 3 years now. I only found my perfect las year as a health and safety advisor after bouncing around between jobs for the previous 2 years.
On ressetlement phase they tell you to gear your skill set around jobs that you already do. But you must make then sound more favourable to an employer. You will not just walk into a very well paid job nor will it be the only one that you will stay in. So do not be put off by rejection. there are loads of jobs out there....
I would say aim high (because we are better qualified than we think for civvy street) but do take the opportunities in other jobs and roles till you get sorted. That way you will gain more 'civilian' experience, keep CV updated and you will therefore become more empolyable.
Also for the first 6 months make use of the information and guidance from the ressetlement office and jobs sites they provide as they often have many jobs on-going for ex forces.

hope this helps and good luck...

Guys,

Thanks for all the advice, it’s very much appreciated. Certainly given me food for thought about changing my approach and I am now looking into other areas of employment to get a foot in the door at least.

Decimomal, thanks for your comments, I am relatively new to this forum stuff, and your right I have been a tad busy looking for a future, apologies for not replyingy sooner to you all.

Cheers

Pete Mac

Yes. My company does. Cannot advertise here so you will need to PM me. There are however conditions and it depends on what quals you have and courses you want. It is all wrapped up in a forces leavers package using ELCAS to get NEBOSH NGC, NEC, NFC and/or NCC. Also we give an assurance that if you are using ELCAS for resettlement, we will always run the course, even if you are the only student.

Dear Petemac,

For interviews I used a book My CV, have a resource of questions to ask at the interview, the best ones are on what benefits you made in the workplace.
Offshore renewables is a sector that's one the up, try some research there, your naval experience should put you in front of your competitors in that field.
Those who go the extra mile will find work, a bit of luck and keeping positive.

Hi Petemac,

Try to break down the different roles you have had in the Navy, do not use acronyms that people won't understand. For each role write 2 key achievemants (H&S based) e.g No notifiable injuries occurred during any construction periods. Do not lie or bluff, you will be caught out on the interview.
See what companies like forces in your area, check monthly CTP email as they list them. Network Rail, Balfour Beatty etc like forces.

Use contacts and ask for work experience (non paid), be polite and positive. Have your CV ready if they ask for it. Good luck!