Note: The ‘Making the Modern Aviator’ series is targeted specifically at serving RAAF personnel and aims to provide useful career guidance across a range of topics. So there might be some jargon and acronyms that may not be easily understood by others.
This article provides tips and pointers for aviators as they start preparing for their next job.
Ok…so the hurricane has come and gone, the house of cards remained intact (sort of), and a posting order emerged with your name on it. You’re now staring at the computer screen looking at this piece of career management handiwork. Now what? This article provides tips and pointers for aviators as they start preparing for their next job.
Trust us – there is a reason
Once postings are released, Career Managers (CMs) will often be asked “why did that person get that job?” First up, please note that CMs won’t disclose personal information about other people and their posting, so don’t be surprised if you get a generic response to this question! As highlighted in the last post, CMs strike a balance between an individual’s experience & aspirations, and current & future organisational needs. Everyone’s posting is nested within the bigger picture, so please take your CM’s word on that one!
Not my first preference
As hard as CMs try to find a position and/or location that meets every aviator’s preferences, we know there will be some who are unhappy with their next posting.
In some instances, CMs may have been able to make this more palatable through tools such as shortened posting tenures or an arrangement where members have a higher priority for their preferred location next time around (also known as a RICP). But unfortunately, there are occasions where there might not be any option other than to understand the reasons why the posting has occurred (CMs should explain this) and set about making the best of it.
Because while we don’t think about it all that often, full-time military personnel have an obligation to provide unrestricted service and that can mean doing postings that aren’t always on our preference list.
First impressions
Ok, back to the positive stuff. There’s no standard protocol for contacting your new unit (unless they specify this in advance), but it’s a good ice-breaker to reach out and introduce yourself. This can take many forms; from informal means (phone call, email) to formal (such as demi-official letters – if you need a good template let me know).
You can reach out any time between getting your posting order and your posting start date. In previous roles, I’ve tried to reach out early to say hi then followed up closer to the date with questions like who do I meet, what uniform to wear on the first day etc.
Handing over / taking over
This can be tricky depending on where you’re moving to/from (not to mention COVID restrictions!); but if you can, try to meet the person you’re replacing and/or visit your new workplace. Not only can you get tips & pointers on the job and meet your future team, but knowing where to find your desk/office can make your first day a lot smoother. You might even get a head start on some admin processes. Speaking of which…
Prior preparation
For some postings, you’ll need to undertake some preparation well in advance, such as security clearance upgrades or courses to ensure you hit the ground running. Ask your new unit about these and get the ball rolling as soon as you can.
Flexible work
CMs are often asked about Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA). While CMs appreciate the heads up that you’ll be seeking a FWA in your next job, ultimately the negotiation and approval of FWAs are between the member and their chain of command (CoC). Speak with your new CoC as soon as your posting order is released to negotiate further.
Revise & adjust the long-term goals
Hopefully your next posting is another step on the pathway to achieving your long-term aspirations. While you don’t need to do it now, you should start thinking about updating your Career Development Plan (CDP). When you’re ready, review the CDP post and think about how this upcoming posting fits into your broader career. Ideally, the first column in your aspirations table can disappear and everything takes a step to the left, or it might be time to think a little deeper and readjust. Your CM is available to help you on this journey.
Things change…
As highlighted in the last post, the posting window isn’t the only time postings are released. Factors such as new positions, separations and individual compassionate circumstances can alter the posting landscape and changes to individual postings (sometimes more than one) may be required.
CMs will aim to minimise the impact of any changes and give affected individuals as much notice as possible. On the flip side, if you foresee anything that may change your ability to serve the full tenure of your posting please let your CM know as soon as you can.
As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss further chat with your CM.
