Boots to Loafers: Finding Your New True North

This kindlebook that is Boots to Loafers Finding Your True North by John W PhillipsLieutenant Colonel US Army Retired with Paul Falcone does have some informational points which include: an inspirational story involving army veteran Dawn Halfaker, traditional resources of websites to look up for multiple companies, websites to look up for top veteran friendly employers, other websites for identifying veteran friendly companies with job openings, a website involving employment and training service, a sample resume of a US Army Officer, a sample resume of a US Navy Officer, a junior career level resume, a cover letter sample, job boards, and more. I am blessed/lucky to have been in the navy for 8 and a half years and to also have over 3 years of university working experience with the current company. Additionally I have enjoyed the privilege of living in multiple places since my 20s that broadened my horizons: Japan, California, Florida, Virginia, Maryland etc. However, regardless of who is reading this review whether older or younger than me I just wish that I knew 10 years ago that I know now how important and helpful it could be to try to stick keep the related work experience in the military door open after serving in the military in case trying to go through an outside career door requires more experience, social capital, leadership experience andor right timing than initially expected. Additionally, try to make up one’s mind on where you want to live reside long-term regardless of what others tell you within ideally 10 years or sooner after completing a military career though the sooner one chooses where they prefer/want to live the better because you never know if an employment opportunity rug could be pulled from you andor changed metaphorically speaking and it might be necessary to find a new employment opportunity before you even feel ready even when you are intuitively and logically aware that you can be the captain of your own career ship/destiny. I understand that not everyone wants to reside andor live long term just by where they are passionate about living though I feel that living somewhere where you really want to live whether at least temporarily andor long term when feasible whether that is within the U.S. or outside the U.S. is more ideal for people who can exercise that option because enjoying the amenities and experiences that a particular place has can provide healing andor therapeutic consolation even if career andor employment goals/experiences go differently than planned. I have other lessons that I learned either the challenging or easy way that can fill at least a 50 page to 100 page kindlebook though I prefer to refrain from saying more to show some respect and consideration of the author (authors) who wrote this kindlebook that is Boots to Loafers Finding Your True North by John W. Phillips Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Army (Ret) and Paul Falcone.

I transitioned to the civilian world a generation ago after serving five years in the Corps. I wish I had this book back then! I know Lt. Col. Phillips, the author, and can hear his voice in this tremendous work. It is candid, sincere, fast to read, and I made many notes on my Kindle for reference points. I see now that I have been giving incomplete advice to vets I have mentored over the years, and I will make the appropriate adjustments. This book should be given to anyone getting out of the military, whether he or she has served three years or thirty ... and there is something in here for anyone, and I would not limit this to just veterans. The transitioning vet will keep this as close as his calendar or dictionary, and should refer to it often, even after securing employment. Get this book for a friend as a gift... it may be the best favor you will perform for that person.

Boots to Loafers is an excellent resource for those of us who are starting to consider civilian options after military service. John's writing is clear and to the point, and his insights as someone who has successfully transitioned to the civilian sector are invaluable. Boots to Loafers helped me see where I might fit into a corporate hierarchy, where to find growth industries, and how to translate skills from military to civilian terms. John's support for transitioning military extends beyond the book. John has personally responded quickly each time I have contacted him for advice. Easily deserves 5 stars!

John delivers a comprehensive, common sense guide for veterans that I found much more practical than a week long transition assistance DoL course. The easy read addresses all the prudent concerns facing career transitioners and is complete with military-to-civilian resume writing techniques and templates.He is committed to advancing vets into the private sector. His passion for assisting vets shines through the book as well as in his endeavors with veteran organizations. It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the "resources" out there, I strongly recommend narrowing the search to the Boots to Loafers guide.

John Phillips does a great job capturing the uncertainty that exists in transitioning Warriors and translating it into an easy to read, relevant guide. Through his experiences, John has seen and experienced first hand the challenges of making the personal shift from Soldier to corporate leader. I highly recommend this book to any military service member looking to begin their new career outside the military. It's really a process rather than an event, and LTC Phillips does a phenomenal job of discussing it in his book. Do yourself a favor and buy it today!

Outstanding book! This book should be part of the Transitioning Assistance Program (TAP) in the military. This book gives you the tools one needs to succeed finding that next career. John Phillips does a great job explaining the challenges one may face and how to address those obstacles. Must read!Respectfully,Angelo SanchezRetired Senior Chief, USN

This book is IT! It has all the in's and out's of the transition. It has the ways to determine what to look for. It has the benefits spelled out. And, it has met a much overlooked niche in our society. Thanks for preparing such a fine Trail Guide for our protectors. Needed by every military person returning from the field.

Having spent 46+ years taking care of veterans and their families, as a State Veterans Service Officer, I can truly say that BOOTS to LOAFERS is a must read for anyone attempting to help veterans and a must own book by all veterans seeking to help themselves. Tommy Clack Retired GA VSO