PCS Season is Here: Tips to Get Your Job Search Going

Janine Spurrier
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We are a few months into summer, a time characterized by warm weather, vacations, and creating family memories. However, for military spouses, this season also marks the peak Permanent Change of Station (PCS) period. For military spouses, this time can be particularly challenging when it comes to job searching. It adds an extra layer of complexity as it requires spouses to balance the demands of their family’s relocation, which include finding housing, settling children into new schools and pursuing new employment opportunities. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help military spouses effectively organize their time during the PCS season while navigating the job search process.

Leverage Military Resources and Networks:

Military spouse programs, such as Hire Heroes USA, Hiring our Heroes (HOH), the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) and Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO), offer a wealth of resources tailored to supporting military spouses in their job search endeavors. These programs provide access to job boards, resume assistance, career counseling, and networking opportunities specifically designed for military spouses. Don’t be shy when it comes to networking and always remember to communicate professionally. Immerse yourself in online forums where you’ll find a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can provide insights and potentially lead to professional prospects.

Seek Remote or Flexible Opportunities:

Consider exploring remote work or flexible opportunities that can accommodate the summer months and your frequent relocations. This approach allows you to maintain work-life balance while leveraging technology to stay connected with your employer and colleagues. Do your research to find Military Spouse Friendly organizations, and a cultural fit for who you are as a person and a professional. Additionally, if you have a strong relationship with your current employer, presenting a well-thought-out plan for remote work could demonstrate your commitment and dedication, increasing the chances of successfully negotiating a remote work arrangement.

Practice Self-Care:

Don’t forget to take care of yourself physically and mentally. Manage stress by incorporating some physical activity into your day whether it be exercise, meditation or quality time with those who uplift you. Explore on-post activities and camps for children. This not only gives them a chance to have fun and make new friends, but also provides you with some quality time to focus on getting organized. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial to staying focused and motivated throughout the job search process.

 While the job search may demand your time and effort, remember that you are not alone in this journey. There are a plethora of tools and resources at your disposal. Break away from your hesitations and ask for help when needed. In addition to the support from your community and network, Military One Source offers free counseling services for military spouses and their families, providing you with a confidential space to address challenges you may be facing.

Janine is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA.  Hire Heroes USA provides free job search assistance to U.S. military members, veterans and their spouses, and we help companies connect with opportunities to hire them. We have a proven track record of success helping over 75,000 veterans and military spouses get hired since the company was founded. The services never expire. Sign up today at www.hireheroesusa.org.