Dear Bob ... I am transitioning from a rich 20-year career in the Marines as I "retire"and transition to my next career--that was 20 years of continuous successful technical management. I have a Masters in Systems Engineering, lots of great experience, a strength in process engineering and in matching technologies to process, and a real knack for problem solving (just in case you know of anyone who is hiring--ne Dear Bob …I am transitioning from a rich 20-year career in the Marines as I “retire”and transition to my next career–that was 20 years of continuous successful technical management. I have a Masters in Systems Engineering, lots of great experience, a strength in process engineering and in matching technologies to process, and a real knack for problem solving (just in case you know of anyone who is hiring–need a West Coast rep in IT Catalysts?Anyway, I am enjoying going through the articles from the past looking for key issues in industry. I see that my management and leadership skills will come in particularly handy as I crush my “competition!” Beyond that, what skills would differentiate a candidate in the modern market place in technical management or in process engineering? – Becoming civilianDear Civilian …You want advice? You got advice. That is, after all, what I do. Two questions, two answers: 1. Don’t crush the competition. I suspect you were at least semi-kidding. In contrast, I’m entirely serious. There’s a difference between competitors and enemies – among them, that you might find yourself asking one of those competitors for a job one of these days.2. Among smart employers, the main differentiators are generally the same:* Has a history of success – of getting the job done. * Gets the job done the “right way” – by working the process and improving the process, not by being a hero every time, or by creating deathmarches.* Is a good thinker – can help the organization figure out how to overcome new challenges.* Works well and plays well with others – knows how (and when) to build consensus; recognizes that winning every battle is less important than maintaining relationships and winning the important ones; and is adept at building internal networks. The tough part is getting in front of the decision-makers, because HR generally screens on less important issues, making sure none of the best candidates ever get in front of the hiring manager.– Bob ——– Technology Industry