Building Your Net(work) Before You Jump

Recorded at XYPN LIVE 2026 in San Diego, Rob Moore, MQFP® and Omen Quelvog CFP®, MQFP® explain why a successful military transition depends on building the right civilian network before separation. They also discuss fee-only advice, increased combat pay, and how genuine professional relationships can create post-service opportunities.

Contact The Fiscal Foxhole

• Email The Fiscal Foxhole at fiscalfoxhole@gmail.com
• Book a meeting with Rob
• Book a meeting with Omen

🪖 Background: 25 Years Since Operation Enduring Freedom

• On October 7, 2001, U.S. and British forces began strikes against Taliban and Al-Qaeda targets in Afghanistan.

📰 Intel Update: Transparency, Advice, and Combat Pay

• Fee-only advice begins with two questions: Who pays the advisor, and exactly how much? Eliminating commissions reduces conflicts, but clients should still evaluate competence, biases, and whether the advice covers their complete financial picture.

🤝 Execution: Build the Network You Need Next

1. Issued vs. recruited: In uniform, your network comes with the assignment. After service, you must choose and cultivate it. Preserve your military “safety network,” including teammates and contractors who know your value.
2. Start before the DD214: Transition programs provide a baseline, not an industry-specific path. Research early through podcasts, professional groups, conferences, and conversations with people already doing the work.
3. Leave the military bubble: Learn civilian language, technology, compensation, hiring practices, and workplace culture. Enter with humility and ask basic questions without apology.
4. Know the money side: Connections can reveal who is hiring, what roles pay, which benefits matter, and where advancement is realistic. Become the person an insider already knows and trusts. LinkedIn research found that 70% of people hired in 2016 joined a company where they had a connection.
5. Show up like you mean it: Attend repeatedly, follow up, offer coffee or lunch, and demonstrate sustained interest. Introverts can protect their energy by staying near the event and scheduling short breaks.

The magic networking question: “What’s the most challenging issue you’re trying to solve right now?” Listen closely, ask thoughtful follow-ups, and look for ways to become part of the solution.

🔗 Links & Resources

• Military Financial Advisors Association
• Pentagon boosts special combat pay rates