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Breaking Through Employment Barriers as a Veteran

Writer's picture: Kirk CarlsonKirk Carlson


Breaking Through Employment Barriers as a Veteran

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a significant challenge for many veterans, particularly when finding employment. Despite the valuable skills and experiences they bring, veterans often face unique barriers in the job market. Understanding and overcoming these barriers is essential for veterans to secure meaningful employment and successfully integrate into civilian life. This article explores the familiar employment barriers veterans face and provides strategies for overcoming them.

Identifying Employment Barriers for Veterans

  1. Skill Translation: One of the biggest challenges is translating military skills and experiences into terms that resonate with civilian employers. Many employers may need to understand the scope of veterans' skills fully.

  2. Cultural Differences: The military and civilian work environments can be vastly different. Veterans may need to adapt to a new workplace culture and communication style.

  3. Misconceptions and Stereotypes: There are often misconceptions about veterans' adaptability, mental health, or suitability for civilian roles.

  4. Networking Challenges: Veterans may need more civilian professional networks that often play a crucial role in finding job opportunities.

  5. Understanding the Civilian Job Market: Navigating the civilian job market, including job search, applications, and interview processes, can be a new experience for many veterans.

Overcoming Employment Barriers

1. Effective Skill Translation:

  • Resume Tailoring: Craft your resume to highlight transferable skills. Avoid military jargon and focus on universal skills like leadership, project management, and teamwork.

  • Professional Development: Consider obtaining certifications or additional training that can bridge any gaps between your military experience and civilian job requirements.

2. Adapting to Civilian Workplace Culture:

  • Research and Preparation: Research the civilian workplace culture and norms. Understanding the expectations can help you adapt more quickly.

  • Seek Mentorship: A mentor with experience in the military and civilian sectors can provide invaluable guidance.

3. Addressing Misconceptions and Stereotypes:

  • Proactive Communication: Address any potential misconceptions in interviews or networking opportunities. Share examples that demonstrate your adaptability and skills.

  • Educate Employers: Take the opportunity to educate potential employers about the value and diversity of skills veterans bring to the workplace.

4. Building a Professional Network:

  • Leverage Veteran Networks: Utilize veteran networks for job leads and advice. Many organizations and online platforms cater to veteran employment.

  • Engage in Networking Events: Attend industry-specific events, job fairs, and workshops to build your civilian network.

5. Navigating the Civilian Job Market:

  • Utilize Career Services: Many organizations offer career services for veterans, including job search assistance, interview preparation, and resume-writing workshops.

  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current trends and demands in the job market. Understand the qualifications and skills that are needed.

Conclusion

While veterans face unique challenges in the civilian job market, overcoming these barriers is possible with the right strategies. Veterans can enhance their employment prospects by effectively translating military skills, adapting to civilian workplace culture, proactively addressing misconceptions, building a solid network, and understanding the civilian job market. The key is to recognize the value of military experiences and confidently communicate this to potential employers, demonstrating that veterans are capable and exceptional candidates for civilian employment.

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DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is not legal advice. They are meant solely as educational content. Individual cases will vary.
Covenant of Courage is not a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or law firm and is not affiliated with the U.S. Veterans Administration (“VA”). Covenant of Courage does not provide legal or medical advice or assist clients with preparing or filing claims for benefits with the VA.

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