Whether you went to fulfill your patriotic duty, are a war and history buff, want free education and benefits, or simply think you would love the job, the military has great career opportunities available.
Today, there are roughly 1.2 million active duty, and approximately 800,000 reserve members of the military. If you’re hoping to become next among them, you need to understand the recruiting process so that you can put your best foot forward.
Here are some points that you should know about military recruiting so that you can set out on the military career that you have always dreamed of.
Know the Requirements
First, get clarity on the prerequisites for joining the military. The Army, Navy, Air Force, and other branches all have requirements that you need to fulfill before you can enlist and work in the military.
You’ll need to fulfill these requirements before you can sign your contract and go off to basic training. Consider the branch that you are thinking about joining to see any differences between these prerequisites. Some examples of these requirements include holding a high school diploma or GED, being 17 to 28 years old, and having a clean background check.
Make sure that you satisfy these requirements so that you can move forward with the recruiting process.
Discuss Things With a Recruiter
Next, you will need to schedule an appointment with a recruiter in the branch that you are considering joining. This is the meeting that will let you ask all of your questions and learn the ins and outs of the service that you are thinking about joining. A recruiter can help you decide on the job role you would like to take once you are enrolled in the military, while also learning what to expect. They can also help to process and facilitate your paperwork so that you can move forward with the process.
Make sure you come prepared with questions that you have for your recruiter. Take notes and feel free to ask the recruiter about their career and what they have gotten out of it.
Take the ASVAB and Other Exams
You also will need to take the entrance exams required of new military members. The higher you score, the better placement you can expect. In the military, the main entrance exam is the armed services vocational aptitude battery exam (ASVAB).
This test will help decide what roles you are best suited for once you enlist. Give yourself enough time to study for the ASVAB so that you can get a high score and gain entrance to the military. After taking and passing the exam, you will also have to submit a physical exam to make sure that you are fit for service.
Get Sworn in and Sign Your Contract
Finally, you will have your swearing in ceremony so that you can officially join the military. Your recruiting officer will guide you through signing the paperwork and congratulate you on your new endeavor.
From there, you will have a start date for basic training and will receive further instructions for getting started.
Military Recruiting 101
These tips are helpful when you’re interested in joining a branch of the armed forces. Undergoing military recruiting will help you chart your path for a new career taking on one of the many military jobs available.
In the meantime, you can also find your nearest military recruiter here.