Tips to Prepare for Meeting the Recruiter

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Air Force delayed entry program
U.S. Air Force Maj. Chris Dufford, 18th Aerospace Medical Squadron bioenvironmental engineering chief of operations, swears Dean Taylor in to the Air Force delayed entry program. (Staff Sgt. Omari Bernard/U.S. Air Force)

Going to see a recruiter for the first time can be intimidating. It doesn't have to be, though. Remember that a recruiter's primary duty is to help you. If people are not satisfied with what they get, they will not join the military. So the recruiter's job is to ensure that you are satisfied with what you will get. If you keep this principle in mind, you will be one step ahead of the game.

Recruiters are virtually all honest. They also face demanding schedules and cannot possibly tell you everything you would like to hear. Your job is to be a detective -- ask plenty of questions. This will afford you the most complete picture of your possible future in the armed services.

If you think you're ready to see a recruiter, here is our suggested list of steps:

  • Check out jobs that interest you. See Military.com's Interest Matcher.
  • Choose at least two branches to visit. Even if you're not really interested, it is always good to get perspectives from another branch for comparison purposes.
  • You should prepare some basic questions to ask the recruiter. Here is a list to get you started.
  • Arrange an appointment with a recruiter -- much better than simply walking in.
  • If you can, go with a friend.
  • Do not sign any obligatory documents. You do not have to at this stage.
  • Take notes. Take them home for review.

Interested in Joining the Military?

We can put you in touch with recruiters from the different military branches. Learn about the benefits of serving your country, paying for school, military career paths, and more: sign up now and hear from a recruiter near you.

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