Civilian workplace culture can be quite different to the ADF.
In many cases, the civilian workplace is much less structured. It can also differ in terms of dress standards, language, the formality of verbal and non-verbal communication, openness to opinions, and leadership styles.
It may take a while to adjust so ask your supervisor, mentor or a workplace buddy for advice to help you settle in.
Workplace culture
Cultures can vary across workplaces, and this can be a learning curve for all new staff, not just those moving from the ADF.
The Australian Government’s Job Jumpstart website has a helpful guide on how to navigate a new work environment.
Leadership style
In the civilian workforce, successful leaders are more often influencers than commanders.
Watch this talk by management theorist Simon Sinek about building trust and leadership in the workplace; using lessons drawn from military leaders.
Communication
In military culture, personnel are often referred to formally as "sir", "ma'am", or by rank. However, in the civilian workplace, using formal titles like these can make some employees uncomfortable.
While it is always important to be polite, rank or position are much less important. It is more acceptable for civilians to refer to co-workers, regardless of their position, by their first name.
Language
Just as in the ADF, all workplaces use unique jargon and acronyms, take time to get to know the jargon and communication styles in your new workplace and explain any acronyms you may routinely use.
Atlassian, a large Australian tech company have a guide to communication styles in the workplace you might want to read.
Different work styles
People with an ADF background have a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, direct and clear communication and task completion.
Other employees may have different work styles that are acceptable to the employer. Take the time to understand the different work styles of your colleagues and management.