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Transferring Military Skills to Civilian Careers

Writer's picture: Kirk CarlsonKirk Carlson

Updated: Feb 20, 2024



Transferring Military Skills to Civilian Careers




The transition from military to civilian life is a significant change for veterans, particularly regarding career development. While the military experience is rich with skill-building and leadership opportunities, translating these skills to civilian job terms can sometimes be challenging. Veterans possess a wealth of experience and precious qualities in the civilian workforce. This article will discuss how veterans can effectively transfer their military skills to thrive in civilian careers.

Understanding the Value of Military Skills

  1. Leadership and Team Management: Military service often involves leading teams and managing complex operations, skills directly applicable to managerial roles in civilian jobs.

  2. Discipline and Work Ethic: The military instills a strong sense of discipline and a solid work ethic, highly sought after in the civilian job market.

  3. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Veterans are trained to adapt to rapidly changing scenarios and solve problems efficiently, skills that are beneficial in any work environment.

  4. Technical and Specialized Skills: Many veterans receive specialized training in IT, engineering, logistics, healthcare, and more.

Translating Military Experience

  1. Identify Transferable Skills: Evaluate your military experience and identify skills that can be applied to civilian jobs. This includes technical and soft skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork.

  2. Use Understandable Language: Translate military jargon into civilian terms. For example, instead of saying “squad leader,” you might say “team manager” or “project leader.”

  3. Highlight Achievements: Focus on specific achievements and how your military experience contributed to these successes. Use quantifiable results where possible.

Preparing for the Civilian Job Market

  1. Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your military experience in a way that resonates with civilian employers. Include a skills summary that aligns with the job you’re applying for.

  2. Prepare for Interviews: Practice how you will discuss your military experience in job interviews. Be prepared to give examples of how your military skills have prepared you for the civilian job.

  3. Network: Utilize both military and civilian networks. Networking can be an effective way to learn about job opportunities and get recommendations.

Seeking Educational Opportunities

  1. Use GI Bill Benefits: Consider using your GI Bill benefits for further education or training in fields that interest you.

  2. Certifications and Additional Training: Certain civilian careers may require specific certifications or additional training. Research what’s needed in your field and pursue additional qualifications.

Overcoming Stereotypes

  1. Address Misconceptions: Be prepared to address misconceptions about veterans during your job search. Emphasize your adaptability, teamwork, and ability to work under pressure.

  2. Showcase Soft Skills: Emphasize the soft skills you developed in the military, such as leadership, integrity, and resilience.

Conclusion

Veterans bring unique skills and experiences that are incredibly valuable to the civilian workforce. By effectively translating these skills and experiences, veterans can demonstrate their suitability for civilian careers. The key is understanding how your military experience can fill the needs of civilian employers and communicating this effectively in your resume, networking, and interviews. With the right approach, the transition from military to civilian careers can be smooth and open doors to fulfilling new career opportunities.

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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.
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