Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Looking For Defense Jobs Overseas? Take These 5 Free Pieces of Advice.

By Alexis Tierce

Are you ready for the surge? While the 30,000 new troops are gearing up to hit Afghanistan, civilian jobs through LOGCAP 4 will be booming too. With a huge amount of troops and infrastructure coming into the country, those high paying jobs are out there.

So - are you thinking about applying? If so, we've got 5 pieces of direct, clear advice to get you prepared.

#5: You Won't Make Friends With These Defense Jobs.

Many people head over to Afghanistan with high hopes of being direct support to the military working on the mission there - that the civilian contractors will form a kind of supportive network that works together, in camaraderie, with a spirit of teamwork.

Not going to happen. This is work, this is contractual stuff, and it is cutthroat. If you aren't ready, you'll be left at the door - fast.

#4: Be Ready to Get Overwhelmed.

Loads of people come over to Afghanistan thinking that shooting straight will help them, that even though they've heard a few stories, being honest and direct with everyone will still be the best approach.

Approach this from a different angle - don't go looking for a positive experience but rather just try and get through it, and you might be alright.

#3: Doing Well in Defense Jobs? It's Not Only About Shooting Straight.

Ever read Machiavelli's "The Prince"? You should, before coming over to Afghanistan. This isn't a clear chain of command like it is in the military. If you thought the army itself was full of politics and backstabbing, wait till you see LOGCAP 4.

#2: The People Can be Rough.

Background checks don't go back past a certain date on these projects, so you've got some very special people you're going to be working with. If you don't want to be around these people (again, there's a reason the pay is high), or can't deal with them at all, it's best to reconsider. If you're tough, though - step right up.

#1: Above all, When Looking for Defense Jobs, Know What You're Getting Into.

Don't listen to people who try and sugar-coat the experience for you. If someone told you that going into war was a cakewalk, would you believe them? No. Same goes for civilian contractors - the more direct, honest advice you get in advance, the better prepared you'll be when you go and get that high-paying job.

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