Posted on Jan 2, 2014
Do you have a hard time talking to people outside of the military?
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There have been a lot of articles recently on the civilian/military divide, and that the two entities, especially after the two prolonged conflicts we have been serving in, have come at odds when it comes to understanding one another.
This morning, I read an article from the Business Insider on military phrases that are commonly used (http://www.businessinsider.com/military-phrases-2013-12).
As a Guard officer, I can't help but remember the times coming off an active duty period in which I almost blurted out a "Hooah" or "Roger that" instead of something that you would normally use in a conversation.
So, it got me thinking: do you have problems communicating in the civilian sector? If not, what are your tips to switch up the mindset?
We advise troops not to use them outside of the service.
Posted in these groups: 
Civilians
Transition
Civilians Transition
Posted 11 y ago
Responses: 19
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I think its actually a very common place problem and not just a military to civilian sector issue. Its all about habits and taking the time to understand, not just what you do, but how your responsibilities can be effectively communicated. We in the military are very used to our acronyms and turn of phrase. So are Law Enforcement Officials, Medical Professionals, and if anyone here has ever spoken to an IT professional...then we all understand that sense of loss when they try to describe what they do. I have found that the more I work on my resume, the better I have become at describing what I do in layman's terms. This has greatly improved my communication skills within my career field and the civilian companies that I work with. Additionally, I take lessons from Senior Leaders, look up GEN Vincent Brooks or GEN James Mattis...their interviews are a treasure trove of verbiage and techniques to effectively communicate with anyone. Thanks!
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COL Vincent Stoneking
CPT Freeland,
Well said. My most common critique of service member resumes is "but what did you do, in English?"
Some are receptive, but some just don't get it.
Well said. My most common critique of service member resumes is "but what did you do, in English?"
Some are receptive, but some just don't get it.
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LTC (Join to see)
Thanks LTC Stoneking- that is a great question and one that I have been asked more than a few times. The first couple, I was definitely a hard head, but after some consideration, I realized the point. Thanks Sir!
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I don't necessarily have a hard time communicating with civilians, I just have trouble relating to them. That makes it hard to carry on a conversation. I also find it extremely difficult to use first names, I have to force myself.
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1SG (Join to see)
I dont think its just civilians for me. I think I am a introvert and really dont like talking to alot of people. I dont like crowds and I am a firm believer that I have a TON of acquaintences but very few friends. I usually casual listen, not trying to be rude, but I am not one for long winded conversation. Say what you have to say and move on. I think I need to find a hut in the mountains when I retire with no neighbors..lol
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1SG Shane Hansen
Good to see I am not the only one like that too. I would have already found a hut if it weren't for my wife and kids. I definitely listen a lot more than I talk.
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1SG (Join to see)
I "try" to listen, but always find myself giving the typical male answer to everything.. Yeah, Uh huh, no, ok...etc..lol
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SSG V. Michelle Woods
1SGs
Perhaps if y'all told us women that nagging incessantly doesn't work, then we would stop. But you're too busy tuning us out!
Here I was thinking I had good, valid arguments but really the men, including my former 1SG, just wanted me to shut up lol. Whatever works :)
Perhaps if y'all told us women that nagging incessantly doesn't work, then we would stop. But you're too busy tuning us out!
Here I was thinking I had good, valid arguments but really the men, including my former 1SG, just wanted me to shut up lol. Whatever works :)
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I saw this on another site this morning. I laughed and thought it would fit with this discussion. Enjoy!!!
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SSG V. Michelle Woods
MSG
I told my momma this morning to "carry on" haha. I mean uhhh...never mind mom.
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CMSgt (Join to see)
Soooooooo:
My alarm didn't go off! I grabbed my battle rattle and popped smoke because the scuttlebutt from the secret squirrel was that we were training which means standing nut to butt all day. When I showed up, my high speed low drag 1SG hammered me with the ol' "If you're early, you're on time, if you're on time, you're late" jazz then voluntold me to get to e-tool duty. When I arrived, the SFC called me a Blue Falcon and told me to stand by. Another day of hurry up and wait....................
Makes COMPLETE sense to me. :)
My alarm didn't go off! I grabbed my battle rattle and popped smoke because the scuttlebutt from the secret squirrel was that we were training which means standing nut to butt all day. When I showed up, my high speed low drag 1SG hammered me with the ol' "If you're early, you're on time, if you're on time, you're late" jazz then voluntold me to get to e-tool duty. When I arrived, the SFC called me a Blue Falcon and told me to stand by. Another day of hurry up and wait....................
Makes COMPLETE sense to me. :)
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