Episode #26: Finding Your Why, What and Where You're Going with Justin Pearson

During his Army service, Justin Pearson went from the position of an Airborne Infantryman who earned a Bronze Star in Afghanistan to that of a senior recruiting manager by the end of his military career. He transitioned to positions in senior marketing management, strategic partnerships and brand management for Fortune 1000 companies such as Wells Fargo and AAFMAA. Consistently sharing his hard-earned lessons as a mentor for transitioning service members and military spouses, Justin reveals his stumbles along the path to his success and his perspective from the talent acquisition industry in the hopes of making an easier transition for others.

Lessons Learned:

• As a currently active leader in the military, it is important for you to understand aspects of the transition so that you can provide practical examples for those who follow you.
• Technology changes quickly, especially in the civilian world. This includes the technology associated with finding a new job and career.
• As early in your military career as possible, find a mentor who can and will suggest useful certifications for you to apply during your service as well as afterward.
• Don’t throw spaghetti on the wall. Be targeted and personal when you reach out to network with people.
• It’s scary to hear the truth from mentors, such as the fact that you will need a much higher civilian salary to maintain your current lifestyle and accommodate tax brackets.
  • It’s a misconception to think that you need to “start over” because “your military experience doesn’t correlate” to work in the private sector.
  • Evaluate:
    • What do I want to do, next?
    • Why do I want to do that?
    • How do the skills I’ve developed relate to that role/industry?
    • What skills do I NOT want to pursue in my next career?
  • To determine what you want to do next, consider:
    • What kind of work makes me happy?
    • What kind of environment do I want to work in?
    • What type of company do I want to work for or with?
  • Recruiters want to hire and retain the candidates who best fit what the organization needs.
  • You need several key mentors in life, and you might interact with each one in a different way:
    • Maybe you just read what they post on LinkedIn.
    • Sometimes, you work for them.
    • Sometimes, you take turns working for each other.
    • Your mentors help with physical, mental, emotional and professional wellness.
    • You need the challenge of multiple perspectives and ways to handle different situations.
  • A mentor does not makes goals for you. Rather, he or she is a compass who guides you toward your desired goals.
  • Networking is a little like dating.
    • You want to communicate.
    • You provide value.
    • You learn how to better assist those with whom you want to network.
    • Don’t rush it, because relationships take time and authenticity.
  • Brand yourself in the future tense for hiring managers.
  • Growth is uncomfortable, so be aware of that when you want to grow.
  • You can connect with Justin on LinkedIn at:
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/pearsonjustinc/