Vets: Translate Military Skills to Land Your Dream Job

Transitioning back into civilian life after military service can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding meaningful employment. The good news is that there are numerous job opportunities for veterans, and with the right approach, you can secure a fulfilling career. But how do you cut through the noise and find the right opportunities? Let’s explore a step-by-step guide to kickstarting your post-military career, so you can land a job that values your unique skills and experience.

1. Translate Your Military Skills into Civilian Terms

This is often the biggest hurdle. Many veterans struggle to articulate how their military experience translates into civilian job requirements. Don’t just list your duties; highlight your accomplishments and quantify your results whenever possible. Instead of saying “Managed a team,” try “Led a team of 10 soldiers, consistently exceeding performance goals by 15%.”

Pro Tip: Use a skills translator tool like the one offered by CareerOneStop CareerOneStop. Input your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) code, and it will generate a list of comparable civilian occupations and skills. Then, tailor your resume accordingly.

Common Mistake: Using military jargon without explanation. Civilian employers won’t understand acronyms or specialized terms. Always spell things out and use language that a non-military person can easily understand.

2. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume is your first impression, so make it count. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Use a professional format: Choose a clean, modern template that is easy to read. Microsoft Word offers several resume templates, but consider using a dedicated resume builder like Resume.io for more advanced options.
2. Highlight your accomplishments: Focus on what you achieved, not just what you did. Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and quantify your results whenever possible.
3. Tailor your resume to each job: Don’t use a generic resume for every application. Customize it to match the specific requirements of the job description. Pay attention to the keywords used in the job posting and incorporate them into your resume.
4. Proofread carefully: Errors in your resume can be a major turnoff for employers. Have someone else review your resume for grammar and spelling mistakes.
5. Include a compelling cover letter: A cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story and explain why you are a good fit for the job. Address the hiring manager by name if possible and highlight your relevant skills and experience.

I had a client last year, a former Army Sergeant First Class, who was struggling to get interviews. His resume was full of military jargon and didn’t highlight his leadership skills effectively. We worked together to rewrite his resume, focusing on his accomplishments in leading and training soldiers. Within a month, he had multiple interviews and landed a job as a project manager.

3. Leverage Veteran-Specific Job Boards

Several job boards cater specifically to veterans, making it easier to find employers who value your military experience. These platforms often feature companies with veteran hiring initiatives and a strong understanding of military skills.

Here are a few to check out:

• VetJobs: VetJobs is a leading job board for veterans, offering a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. They also provide resume assistance and career counseling services.
• RecruitMilitary: RecruitMilitary hosts career fairs and provides job postings specifically for veterans. They partner with companies that actively seek to hire veterans.
• CareerOneStop: As mentioned earlier, CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, has a dedicated section for veterans with job listings, training programs, and other resources.

Pro Tip: Set up job alerts on these platforms to be notified of new openings that match your skills and interests. Check these job boards daily.

4. Network with Other Veterans

Networking is crucial in any job search, but it’s especially important for veterans. Other veterans understand your background and can offer valuable insights and advice. They may also know about job openings that aren’t advertised publicly. You can find these connections locally and nationally.

Here’s how to network effectively: Consider joining veteran organizations to expand your network.

• Join veteran organizations: Organizations like the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) offer networking opportunities and career resources.
• Attend veteran career fairs: RecruitMilitary and other organizations host career fairs specifically for veterans. These events are a great way to meet employers and learn about job openings.
• Connect on LinkedIn: Join veteran-specific groups on LinkedIn and connect with other veterans in your field. Reach out to people who work at companies you’re interested in and ask for informational interviews.

Common Mistake: Being afraid to ask for help. Most veterans are willing to help each other out. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your network for advice, support, and job leads.

5. Utilize Government Resources

The federal government offers a variety of resources to help veterans find employment. These resources include job training programs, career counseling, and assistance with resume writing and interview skills.

Here are some key government resources:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers a range of employment services for veterans, including career counseling, job training, and assistance with finding employment. The VA also has a program called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) that provides support to veterans with disabilities.
• Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS): VETS provides resources and assistance to veterans seeking employment, including job training programs, career counseling, and assistance with resume writing and interview skills.
• Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA offers resources and support to veterans who want to start their own businesses. They provide training, counseling, and access to capital.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of the VA’s career counseling services. They can help you identify your skills and interests, develop a career plan, and find job openings that are a good fit for you.

6. Prepare for Interviews

Once you start getting interviews, it’s important to be prepared. Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your military experience in a way that is relevant to the job. You should also research the company and the role you’re interviewing for.

Here are some tips for preparing for interviews:

• Practice answering common interview questions: Common interview questions include “Tell me about yourself,” “Why are you interested in this job?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Prepare your answers in advance and practice them out loud.
• Research the company: Learn about the company’s mission, values, and culture. Understand their products or services and their target market.
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer: Asking questions shows that you are engaged and interested in the job. Prepare a list of questions in advance and ask them at the end of the interview.
• Dress professionally: Dress appropriately for the interview. If you’re unsure what to wear, err on the side of being too formal.
• Follow up after the interview: Send a thank-you note to the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Reiterate your interest in the job and highlight your qualifications.

We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm when advising a client. They aced the technical parts of the interview, but couldn’t articulate how their military leadership experience would benefit the company. After some targeted interview prep, they nailed the next one and got the offer.

7. Consider Additional Training or Education

Depending on your career goals, you may need to pursue additional training or education to qualify for certain jobs. The GI Bill can help you pay for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

Here are some options to consider: For many veterans, finding the right career path is key.

• Vocational training programs: Vocational training programs can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to enter a specific trade or occupation.
• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree: An associate’s or bachelor’s degree can open up more job opportunities and increase your earning potential.
• Certifications: Certifications can demonstrate your expertise in a particular area and make you more competitive in the job market. For example, a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can be valuable for project management roles.

Common Mistake: Not using your GI Bill benefits. The GI Bill is a valuable resource that can help you pay for education and training. Don’t let it go to waste.

8. Negotiate Your Salary and Benefits

Once you receive a job offer, don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary and benefits. Research the average salary for similar positions in your area and use that information to make a counteroffer. You can also negotiate for better benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pro Tip: Be confident and professional during the negotiation process. Know your worth and be prepared to walk away if the offer doesn’t meet your needs. Remember, many companies expect candidates to negotiate, so it’s a normal part of the hiring process.

9. Embrace Continuous Learning

The job market is constantly evolving, so it’s important to embrace continuous learning and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in your field. Take online courses, attend industry conferences, and read industry publications to stay informed. A great resource for this is Coursera Coursera.

Pro Tip: Set aside time each week to focus on professional development. Even just a few hours a week can make a big difference in your career prospects.

Finding the right job opportunities for veterans requires a strategic approach and a willingness to invest time and effort. By translating your military skills, leveraging veteran-specific resources, and networking effectively, you can increase your chances of landing a fulfilling career. Don’t underestimate the value of your service and the unique skills you bring to the table. Take that first step today – update your resume and start applying for jobs. If you need financial assistance, consider reviewing how to maximize your benefits.