PCS to Corporate America: From Military Tactics to Corporate Interviewing Strategy

After using PCS To Corporate America in my own transition out of the Marine Corps, I can say that PCS is the best tool a junior military officer can get in preparing to leave the military for the corporate world. It truly is a one-stop-shop of knowledge I continuously used - from deciding to leave the Service over a year ago until I accepted an offer with a premier company just three weeks ago. The authors don't dance around issues - this book is packed with simple, clear, concise knowledge with real-world examples for succeeding in transitioning out of the military and into corporate roles. You can spend the time bouncing around different literature on translating military skills and experiences, interviewing, resume writing, professional attire, etc, or you can just get PCS and save your time and money. Definitely a book that'll stay close by my side throughout my career.

A great book for any Officer in any service looking to make the transition. Whether you are sure or still trying to make the decision. This books is a great read. It can help you figure out what the working world is like if you have never experienced it prior to the military. It also has great advice all through out and recommended readings of some of the best business books in the industry. Worth the time to read if you want to leave the military and jump straight into a leadership role.

I would honestly say this is one of the best books to read when transitioning out of the military. It gives great perspective and ideas on what transitioning is and how to go about doing it. But I'll tell you he contradicts himself in his advice. From one angle he tells you to take control over your career, from another he says you should only use one service or "burn the ships". Meaning when you think about choosing a career in corporate America stick with it..well I'll tell you, you have the right to change your mind..it's your career. Recruiters are modern day slave traders, remember you are just a profit to them.

Goes through everything a military officer could want to know about preparing to interview for corporate jobs.

Whether you are military or not transitioning, we’re already out in the civilian world this book set you up for success.

My brother who was in the Air Force recommended this book to me. It was amazing, it answered all the questions I had been wondering about how to interview. I am not in the military myself, but most of what's in this book applies to anyone.

This book is an effective tool for any military service member considering the transition from the military workplace to the corporate workplace. Though the target audience is the Junior Military Officer (JMO), much of the books content will be helpful for any service member, regardless of rank or job position. It will help you self evaluate where you are and help you understand where you want to be, and then teach you how use your accomplishments in the military to gross that gap.If you are considering working with the author's company (Cameron-Brooks), this book is helpful for you to understand their mission and business model for the JMO, and if it is the best fit for you. The 4th edition is significantly updated in its content and tone from the 3rd edition; I recommend the 4th if you are planning on reading it (I read both). I have ran into several service members who have used this book to help them make the decision to transition (as early as the 90s); some made the transition and some did not, but all gave me a 5-star verbal review of this book. I now agree. I will reference this book for years to come.

PROS:This is a very insightful book and a recommended read. It is good to prepare and have all your certifications such as your PMP, SIX SIGMA, and possibly your MBA prior to your transition out of the military. This will build upon your credentials since this is an objective measure in order for you to get the job. The book has good tidbits on how to assist you with your transition out of the military. Take advantage of the free subscriptions on Morningstar on AKO. A regional newspaper, Wall Street Journal, and Forbes are also good to subscribe to. Also, look into vets.syr.edu for your certifications. Developmental jobs are optimal for upward mobility. Also, acp-usa.org provide good mentors that are in the field you are trying to pursue. Cameron brooks does all the research so you don't have to do it. It takes time to get an interview. Providing the interview for you gives you a step ahead of the game. After all, it is your Resume that gets you the interview, and the interview that gets you the job. I like the recommended reading list they have available on the back of the book.CONS:Know what Companies that hire from this organization because companies do not want to pay the finder's fee to cut down on cost. If you really want to work for a bank or consulting firm that doesn't use their services, than you probably better off applying six months prior to your ETS and signing the contract with Cameron Brooks when you don't get feedback from these banks or consulting firms. Use your Alumni network and look for developmental roles there. Companies have their own military recruiting HR which is easily found on Linked In. Militarymojo.org might be an alternate resource and network with their HR from there. It is important to have a fall back plan and Cameron Brooks would be a great utility. How do you know they have your best interest when you have to pay for a plane ticket to get to their hiring conference? If you are part of that 15% that get accepted, ask what is the placement rates and retention rates for the Companies that they place? Their rapport with the Company is dependent on how long you stay with the Company which is better continued business for them. Review the financials and ask yourself if this if the Company is going to exist 5 to 10 years down the road or join a start up if you want to take the risks. When it comes to downsizing, people will get fired which may include the CEO. Hopefully, you find a good job and stick your head up during this time if you are part of the few. It is good to have loyalty but this should be reciprocal and should be based on a Company that has your best interest at heart.