by Sue Hoppin, Founder and President, National Military Spouse Network

The National Military Spouse Network (NMSN) is a modern solution to an age-old problem.

As military spouses, we often wonder if it’s possible to have it all. Traditionally, the transient military lifestyle has limited our ability to create and sustain a career path that meets our deepest goals, talents and aspirations. The National Military Spouse Network (NMSN) believes that by leveraging today’s technology and employment trends, it is entirely possible to maintain a rewarding career within the framework and challenges of the military lifestyle.  We believe that a truly portable career is one that allows military spouses to leverage our existing skills and interests into meaningful, paid work.

Military spouses looking for a job in the DC area face a challenging environment.  With over 85% of jobs being filled through the hidden job market, most folks will find their next job through networking.  For military spouses, this can prove quite daunting.  Our transient lifestyles pretty much guarantee that we’re rebuilding our networks every few years.  By the time we’re meeting people who can help us with the job search, it’s almost time to pack up and leave again, so how do we build this mystical network to help support our career goals?

The NMSN provides a community for military spouse professionals, businesses, academics and media to share expertise and craft innovative solutions on balancing a viable career with the military lifestyle. We are the pre-eminent networking, mentoring and professional development organization committed to the education, empowerment and advancement of military spouses.  Our quarterly networking events in the DC area are a great place for military spouses to connect with one another as well as potential employers and those dealing with military spouse employment issues.

Networking in a fun environment with other military spouses.  What could be better?  Our next event is August 16th at the EATBAR in Arlington from 6 to 8 PM. (Click here to download the invite.)  Remember, the first step in getting your dream job is getting out there and meeting people!  We hope you can join us.  Pre-registration is required, so make sure you sign up at www.nationalmilitaryspousenetwork.org.  You can see pictures from our last event here.

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Sue Hoppin co-authored, “A Family’s Guide to the Military” for the popular Dummies series and has also been listed in “Who’s Who of Military Spouses” by Military Spouse Magazine in 2007 and 2008. The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of Sue Hoppin and do not necessarily reflect those of the USO.