A career in the military can be very different than a civilian career in many respects but military and civilian institutions do have things in common, including an appreciation for people who have a solid grasp of business principles and the skills to successfully apply them to manage and improve the organization. These attributes are almost universal since virtually any type of organization needs individuals to oversee organizational operations and to facilitate or manage all of the tasks and actions that need to be done in the workplace.
Responsibilities
Many military activities require highly effective time management and organizational skills, as well as the ability to coordinate administrative functions. These skills are highly transferrable to the civilian business world, particularly for those who want to pursue a career in management or administration. These roles have a variety of day-to-day responsibilities, including:
- Develop and implement administrative plans, policies, and procedures
- Manage support department operations
- Direct personnel management functions such as hiring, training, and performance evaluations
- Review bids, proposals, and formal contracts
- Review requests for supplies and services
With highly relevant experience and abilities developed in the military, many service members have the ideal organization and management skills to be successful in this field.
Helpful Attributes
Many of the same attributes acquired from military service can be successfully applied to a career in business administration, such as:
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work effectively with people
- Strong communication skills
- Good organizational and management skills
Military experience will also help you solve problems, achieve goals, set and enforce standards, and develop and implement effective processes.
Education and Training
Although many business management and administration jobs provide on-the-job training, there are courses you can take in general business topics such as organizational planning, accounting, supply chain, and purchasing that will enhance your placement opportunities. Obtaining a degree, such as a bachelor’s in business administration, can also be very helpful. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is often considered the premier business degree and candidates with this advanced degree typically have excellent placement prospects.
You can also pursue professional certifications to improve your employment prospects. Professional business certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Business Manager (CBM), Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), and various levels of Six Sigma certifications.
List of Potential Work Places
Civilian business administration and administrative support specialists work in almost any business, government, non-profit organization, or agency. Business administration professionals may serve in more of a managerial or supervisory role while administrative support specialists may find positions as office managers, office clerks, or administrative or executive assistants.
With the organizational skills that service members learn from military training, pursuing a path in the business administration field is an ideal career for individuals from the military. The leadership, organization, and time management skills developed in the military are significant assets for those looking for a career in this field.
