What’s the hardest part of transitioning from the world of Army Special Operations to the private sector?
This question, posed by a grizzled, ten-year veteran of a West Coast-based Navy SEAL Team, hung in the air.
It was in response to my address to a group of Navy SEALs from The Honor Foundation , an organization dedicated to “bridging military and private sector careers … for members of the Special Operations Forces community.”
I had been invited to talk about my successful transition into the private sector after serving in two wars, including five combat deployments in the 75th Ranger Regiment, the Army’s premier Special Operations raid unit. I currently work at MuleSoft, a San Francisco-based enterprise software company.
After pausing to reflect, I replied, ” You can generally expect people in the private sector to demonstrate a drastically lower level of receptivity to negative feedback than you would encounter in the military .”
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Image courtesy of US Army
Interesting article. I have worked with many veterans and I would tend to agree, their candor is sometimes seen as gruff, however, you at least know where you stand. I worked for one boss, former military, who frankly when I first met him, I was very intimidated. But over time, we got to know each other, and I actually appreciated his no BS way. I knew if something was wrong, he would just tell me. And I also felt open to speak to him in same manner. I have worked for a few bosses, however, that were brutal assholes and I wouldn't wish them on anyone. For those bosses, you just grin and bear it until they move on or you do.
One wonders how the current group of college kids who needs safe spaces, and are offended at the least thing will adapt in the working world when they work for someone who has the authority to criticize them and to hire or fire them and there is no safe room or Mom and Dad to hide behind.