Sharing veteran stories is more than just good PR; it’s a powerful way to connect with your audience and honor the sacrifices of our veterans. But are you doing it right? Are you sure you’re not inadvertently causing harm or misrepresenting their experiences?
Key Takeaways
- Always obtain explicit, informed consent from the veteran before sharing their story, detailing exactly how it will be used.
- Focus on the veteran’s strengths and resilience, rather than solely on trauma or hardship.
- Provide resources and support information alongside the story, such as contact information for the Veterans Crisis Line.
1. Obtain Informed Consent
This seems obvious, but it’s often overlooked. You absolutely must get explicit, informed consent before sharing a veteran’s story. And I mean informed. Don’t just have them sign a generic release form. Explain exactly where the story will be published, who will have access to it, and how it will be used. Will it be on your website? In a marketing campaign? On social media? Will it be shared with third-party partners? Every detail matters.
I had a client last year, a non-profit, who thought they were doing a great thing by sharing a veteran’s story on their website. They hadn’t fully explained that the story would also be used in targeted Facebook ads. The veteran was understandably upset when his story, detailing his struggles with PTSD, started popping up in his friends’ newsfeeds. It felt exploitative, even though the intent was good.
Pro Tip: Use a written consent form that clearly outlines the scope of use. Consider having a lawyer review it to ensure it’s comprehensive and compliant with privacy regulations. Tools like Docracy offer free templates that can be customized.
2. Focus on Strengths and Resilience
It’s tempting to focus on the hardships veterans have faced – the trauma, the injuries, the struggles with readjustment. But this can perpetuate negative stereotypes and reduce veterans to their suffering. Instead, emphasize their strengths, their resilience, their skills, and their contributions. What did they learn from their service? How did they overcome challenges? What are they doing now? These are the stories that inspire and empower.
For example, instead of just highlighting a veteran’s struggle with unemployment after service, focus on the skills they gained in the military that are transferable to civilian jobs. Did they learn leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, or technical skills? Showcase how they are using those skills to build a successful career.
Common Mistake: Equating military service with trauma. While many veterans experience trauma, it’s not the defining characteristic of their service. Acknowledge the challenges, but don’t let them overshadow the positive aspects.
3. Provide Context and Education
Don’t assume your audience understands military culture or the challenges veterans face. Provide context and education to help them better understand the story. Explain military terminology, rank structures, and the different branches of service. Discuss the unique challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, such as finding employment, accessing healthcare, and navigating the VA system. This is where you build trust and increase understanding.
Pro Tip: Include a glossary of military terms or links to resources like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website. This shows that you’re committed to providing accurate and informative content.
4. Use Authentic Language and Voice
Let the veteran’s voice shine through. Don’t try to sanitize their language or put words in their mouth. Use their own words and phrases, even if they’re not perfectly polished. This will make the story more authentic and relatable. If you’re writing the story for them, get their feedback and approval every step of the way.
We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm. We were working with a veteran who had a compelling story about overcoming addiction after leaving the military. Our initial draft was too formal and clinical. It didn’t capture the raw emotion and vulnerability of his experience. After getting his feedback, we rewrote the story using his own words and phrases. The final version was much more powerful and impactful.
Common Mistake: Using jargon or clichés about veterans. Avoid phrases like “thank you for your service” (unless it’s a genuine expression of gratitude) and “hero.” Let the story speak for itself.
5. Respect Boundaries and Privacy
Veterans may not be comfortable sharing certain details of their service or personal lives. Respect their boundaries and don’t push them to reveal more than they’re willing to share. Be mindful of their privacy and avoid disclosing any sensitive information, such as their home address, medical records, or financial details. Remember, their story is a gift, not an entitlement.
Pro Tip: Ask the veteran what they’re comfortable sharing and what they want to keep private. Be prepared to edit or remove information that they’re not comfortable with.
6. Offer Support and Resources
Sharing veteran stories can be emotionally triggering for both the veteran and the audience. Provide resources and support information alongside the story, such as contact information for the Veterans Crisis Line (VeteransCrisisLine.net), local veteran organizations, and mental health services. This shows that you care about their well-being and are committed to helping them get the support they need.
According to the National Center for PTSD (PTSD.va.gov), approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom experience PTSD in a given year. Providing access to mental health resources is crucial.
Before publishing or sharing a veteran’s story, consider how to record veteran stories accurately.
7. Get Feedback and Iterate
Before publishing or sharing a veteran’s story, get feedback from other veterans and veteran advocates. They can provide valuable insights and identify any potential issues or concerns. Be open to criticism and willing to make changes based on their feedback. This will help you ensure that the story is accurate, respectful, and impactful.
Common Mistake: Assuming you know what’s best for the veteran. Always prioritize their voice and perspective.
Thinking of starting a business? Veteran businesses have a unique edge that can drive revenue and impact.
8. Compensation and Recognition
Consider compensating veterans for their time and effort in sharing their stories. This is especially important if you’re using the story for commercial purposes. At the very least, offer a token of appreciation, such as a gift card or a donation to a veteran-related charity in their name. Also, ensure they receive proper credit and recognition for their contribution.
Pro Tip: Be transparent about how you’re using the story and how it will benefit your organization. If you’re making a profit from it, consider sharing a portion of the proceeds with the veteran.
9. Long-Term Commitment
Sharing veteran stories shouldn’t be a one-time event. Make a long-term commitment to supporting veterans and promoting their stories. This could involve creating a dedicated section on your website, hosting regular events, or partnering with veteran organizations. The key is to show that you’re genuinely invested in their well-being and success.
Here’s what nobody tells you: supporting veterans isn’t just about sharing their stories. It’s about creating a culture of respect and understanding. It’s about advocating for their needs and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive. It’s about recognizing their contributions and celebrating their successes. It’s a 365-day a year job.
10. Case Study: “Operation Resilient”
To illustrate these guidelines, consider “Operation Resilient,” a fictional campaign by a local Atlanta-based tech company, “Innovate Solutions,” aimed at hiring veterans. Innovate Solutions wanted to highlight the skills and resilience of veterans, moving beyond stereotypical portrayals. They partnered with the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (veterans.georgia.gov) to identify candidates.
The company identified three veterans with diverse backgrounds and skill sets. Each veteran was offered a $500 honorarium for their participation. A detailed consent form, reviewed by Innovate Solutions’ legal team, explicitly outlined the use of their stories across the company website, social media (LinkedIn, specifically), and internal training materials.
The stories focused on their leadership experience, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability. For instance, one veteran, Sarah, discussed how her experience as a logistics officer in the Air Force translated to managing complex projects at Innovate Solutions. Another veteran, David, shared how his experience in the Army taught him to work effectively under pressure, a skill he now uses in his role as a software developer.
Innovate Solutions saw a 30% increase in veteran applications within six months of launching “Operation Resilient.” Furthermore, employee engagement scores improved, reflecting a greater sense of inclusivity and appreciation for diverse perspectives. They also included links to the Veterans Crisis Line and local resources like the Atlanta VA Medical Center on every page that featured a veteran story.
The Fulton County Veterans Court, located near the Fulton County Courthouse, provides resources for veterans involved in the legal system. While not directly part of the campaign, Innovate Solutions also supported their work through a volunteer program.
By following these steps, you can share veteran stories in a way that is respectful, authentic, and impactful. It’s not just about telling a story; it’s about honoring the service and sacrifice of our veterans and creating a more inclusive and supportive society. So, are you ready to commit to telling these stories the right way, ensuring that they uplift and empower, rather than exploit or diminish?
If you’re looking for trustworthy veteran news, remember to separate fact from fiction.
How do I find veterans willing to share their stories?
Connect with local veteran organizations, attend veteran events, or partner with the Georgia Department of Veterans Service. You can also reach out to veterans through social media or online forums. Always approach veterans with respect and clearly explain your intentions.
What if a veteran wants to remain anonymous?
Respect their wishes. You can still share their story without revealing their name or any identifying information. Focus on the lessons learned and the impact of their experiences, rather than the specific details of their service.
How can I ensure that the story is accurate and truthful?
Verify the information with the veteran and cross-reference it with official records, if possible. Be transparent about any limitations in your ability to verify the story and avoid making any claims that you can’t substantiate.
What if a veteran’s story is controversial or contains sensitive information?
Proceed with caution. Consult with legal counsel and veteran advocates to determine the best course of action. Be prepared to make difficult decisions about what to include and what to exclude. Ultimately, the veteran’s wishes should be the primary consideration.
How can I measure the impact of sharing veteran stories?
Track website traffic, social media engagement, and media mentions. Collect feedback from veterans and the audience. Monitor changes in attitudes and perceptions towards veterans. Ultimately, the most important measure of success is whether the stories are making a positive difference in the lives of veterans.
The most important thing? Don’t just talk; act. Take these guidelines, adapt them to your specific context, and start sharing veteran stories in a way that honors their service, celebrates their resilience, and inspires others to support them. Their voices deserve to be heard, and it’s up to us to ensure they are.
