Season 5 Episode 175:

Exceeding Your Own Expectations with Christopher Coffey

What happens when your therapist asks you to practice rejection by applying for jobs you think are out of reach? For Air Force Tech Sergeant Christopher Coffey, it led to three six-figure job offers and a complete rethinking of his value in the civilian workforce.

This eye-opening conversation challenges the most persistent myths about military transition, especially for non-senior enlisted personnel. Chris shares how he landed a management position with a six-figure salary without using LinkedIn or networking – simply by having a professional resume and thorough interview preparation. His story directly contradicts what many hear in Transition Assistance Programs about "starting at the bottom" after military service.

The journey wasn't without challenges. Chris candidly describes his process of "demilitarizing" himself – adjusting to civilian workplace culture where not everyone follows regulations to the letter, learning to call his boss by first name instead of "sir," and adapting to a workplace that values gradual improvement over immediate action. These adjustments, while sometimes frustrating, were key to his successful integration into his new role.

Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from Chris's experience is his mantra: "Don't tell yourself no." By refusing to disqualify himself from opportunities and letting employers make the decision instead, he opened doors that many veterans assume are closed to them. His advice to fellow transitioning service members is refreshingly straightforward – get help with your resume, prepare thoroughly for interviews, and most importantly, recognize the true value of your military experience in the civilian marketplace.

Whether you're years away from transition or actively job hunting, this conversation offers practical insights that could dramatically change your approach to finding meaningful civilian employment. What opportunities might be waiting if you stop telling yourself no?

Connect with Chris Coffey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-m-coffey/

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The Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast is sponsored by Seek Now and their Drive Academy. Seek Now is the property inspection industry's leading business and they created Drive Academy DoD SkillBridge and CSP internships to teach transitioning military service members and veterans skills that prepare them for lucrative and rewarding careers in the property inspection and insurance industries. You can learn more and apply today at www.internwithdrive.com.