Veterans’ Guide to Job Hunting in the Civilian Market
Quality Verified
Updated: February 21, 2024
Quality Verified
Updated: February 21, 2024
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Transitioning to the civilian job market after a military career is a common step for many veterans. As you search for a civilian job, you may have questions about translating military skills on a resume, finding job opportunities for veterans and mastering interviews in an unfamiliar job market. This guide will answer those questions and share some veteran success stories to help you transition to your next meaningful and fulfilling career.
Documents You'll Need for a Job Search
Starting your job search begins with preparation, and a key part of that is having all the necessary documents ready to showcase your skills, experiences and accomplishments to potential employers. Here are the essential documents you should have prepared:
Maintaining your job search documents is a continuous process. Update your resume and cover letter as you gain new skills, experiences or complete new training. Safely storing your documents is equally important. Consider using secure cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, which allow you to access your documents from anywhere. Always keep backup copies of documents — especially your DD-214, which you'll need to access veteran benefits.
Preparing for the Job Search
Before you start sending out applications, taking a few strategic steps can significantly improve your chances of success. To gear up your job application, begin by researching jobs that align with your military skills and crafting a civilian-friendly resume with tailored cover letters for each application. Here are some steps you may consider when preparing for the job hunt:
Browse the Civilian Job Market
The civilian job market can be quite different from the military environment. It's important to understand these differences and how they can impact your job search. For instance, civilian jobs often require a different set of skills and qualifications and the hiring process can be more competitive.
Craft a Civilian-Friendly Resume
Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so it's important to make it count. Create a resume that effectively communicates your skills and experiences to civilian employers. This includes highlighting transferable skills and tailoring your resume to each job you apply for.
Write Tailored Cover Letters
A cover letter is your chance to express your interest in a job and explain why you're a good fit. It's important to write a new cover letter for each job application. Your cover letter should complement your resume, providing additional details about your skills and experiences and explaining how you could contribute to the company.
Collect References
Having a list of references who can vouch for the quality of your work is an important part of the job application process. Choose references who know you well and can speak positively about your work. Always inform your references that you will be listing them and that they may be contacted by prospective employers.
Nailing the Civilian Resume for Veterans
Your resume can help you present your skills in a way that resonates with potential employers. To help you craft a compelling civilian resume, consider the following tips:
Understanding Job Descriptions
Familiarize yourself with civilian job descriptions, which may use different terminology than you're accustomed to in the military. Take the time to understand the requirements and responsibilities of the job, and look for keywords and phrases that align with your skills and experiences.
Translating Military Skills Into Civilian Terms
Start by identifying the transferable skills you gained in the military, such as leadership, teamwork and problem-solving. Then, find ways to present these skills in a way that appeals to civilian employers. For example, instead of saying you "commanded a team of soldiers," you might say you "led a team of professionals in high-pressure situations."
Highlighting Transferable Skills
Emphasize transferable skills — abilities that can be applied across various jobs and industries. These may include leadership, problem-solving, communication or teamwork. Provide examples of how you've utilized these skills in your military career.
Formatting Your Resume
Ensure your resume is well-formatted for easy readability and a positive impression. Use a professional font, include clear section headings and keep your content concise. Bullet points can be useful for listing skills and experiences.
Writing a Powerful Objective or Summary
Craft a concise and tailored objective or summary at the top of your resume. This statement should communicate your career goals and highlight why you're an ideal fit for the specific job you're applying to.
Including Relevant Certifications and Training
Don't forget to include any relevant certifications or training you've completed during your military career. This could encompass technical training, leadership courses or specialized skills such as first aid or project management.
Review and Edit
Prior to submission, thoroughly review your resume for errors or inconsistencies. Consider seeking input from a trusted friend or mentor who can provide valuable feedback and catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Resume Dos and Don'ts: A Comparison
There are a few common mistakes veterans make when crafting a civilian resume. To help you avoid these pitfalls and create a compelling resume, we'll compare a poorly crafted resume and a well-crafted resume. This comparison will highlight common mistakes and demonstrate how to correct them.
Example: Resume “Don’t”
Let's start by examining a resume that falls short. Although this resume includes the candidate's military experience, it fails to effectively communicate the value of that experience in terms that a civilian employer can easily understand and appreciate.
JOHN DOE
123 Main St, Anytown, USA johndoe@email.com
OBJECTIVE: Looking for a job
EXPERIENCE: 11B Infantryman, U.S. Army, 2015-2020
- Carried out reconnaissance missions
- Deployed, neutralized and retrieved both anti-personnel and anti-tank mines
- Used night vision equipment to operate, mount/dismount, calibrate and target
EDUCATION:
- High School Diploma, Anytown High School, 2015
Example: Resume “Do”
Now, let's take a look at a much-improved version of the same candidate's resume. This example effectively translates the candidate's military experience into civilian terms, clearly showcasing the transferable skills and experiences that make the candidate a strong fit for a civilian job.
JOHN DOE
123 Main St, Anytown, USA johndoe@email.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe
OBJECTIVE: Seeking a challenging role in security management where I can utilize my leadership skills and extensive experience in strategic planning and risk assessment.
EXPERIENCE:
Security Team Leader, U.S. Army, 2015-2020
- Led a team of 10 personnel in high-pressure situations, ensuring safety and completing objectives with a 100% success rate.
- Conducted risk assessments and developed strategic plans for various operations.
- Trained in the use and maintenance of various security equipment and technology.
EDUCATION:
- High School Diploma, Anytown High School, 2015
- Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
SKILLS:
- Leadership and team management
- Strategic planning
- Risk assessment
- Security equipment and technology
Where to Find Job Opportunities for Veterans
Once you’ve put together your resume, you’re ready to find and apply for jobs. There are numerous job search platforms designed specifically for veterans. Below are some sources and tools to help you find the job opportunities that will fit you best.
Once you have a few leads and have applied for the jobs that fit the career path you are looking for, it's time to prepare for the interview.
Acing the Job Interview for Veterans
Job interviews are a pivotal step in any job search journey. As a veteran, this is your golden opportunity to articulate the unique abilities and skills you developed in the military in a civilian context and leave a strong impression on potential employers. Here are tips and strategies to help nail your interview:
Research the Company
Before your interview, take the time to research the company. Understand its mission, values and culture. This will help you answer interview questions more effectively and show your interest and initiative.
Prepare for Common Interview Questions
While every interview is different, there are some common questions that you can expect. Practice your responses to these questions, focusing on how your military experience has prepared you for the role.
Showcase Your Soft Skills
Veterans possess many soft skills that are highly valued in the civilian workforce, such as leadership, teamwork and problem-solving. Be sure to highlight these skills during your interview.
Discuss Salary Expectations
Be prepared to discuss salary expectations. Ensure you know the going rate for that position to be able to negotiate well. Glassdoor, Comparably and other sites can help gauge the typical salary ranges for that exact position. You should be honest about your expectations but also be flexible.
Ask Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely be given the opportunity to ask questions. This is your chance to show your interest in the role and the company. Prepare some thoughtful questions in advance.
Follow Up After the Interview
After the interview, send a thank you note to the interviewer. This is not only a polite gesture but also a way to reaffirm your interest in the role.
Dress Appropriately
First impressions matter, and your outfit plays a part in that. Ensure you have an outfit suitable for the position you have applied for. This means a business-level outfit, typically a pair of slacks or skirt, a button-down collared shirt and dress shoes. A tie and/or blazer may be appropriate in more formal settings as well.
Former U.S. Airforce mechanic Ryan Guina recommends practicing your interview with a nonmilitary individual to communicate your skills effectively to a civilian hiring manager. This preparation can significantly impact the interview process and help you present your qualifications confidently.
Guina also suggests contacting the HR department for specific job-related projects to show interest and readiness to learn. While you may not have direct knowledge of everything the company seeks, being well-prepared allows you to speak intelligently about the topic and showcase your readiness to learn.
Questions Interviewers Cannot Ask Veterans
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, interviewers should refrain from asking specific questions about your military experience, and you are not required to provide this information. If you do and are subsequently not hired, it could potentially lead to a discrimination lawsuit.
If an employer does ask one of these questions, try to tactfully sidestep the question while still addressing the root concern behind it. Below are some sample responses you can use:
"I've always been committed to my roles and responsibilities, both in the military and in civilian life. I believe my experiences have equipped me well for this position."
"I'm currently focused on my career transition and ensuring I bring value to any organization I join. My military background has given me a strong foundation for this role."
"I'm a hard worker and adaptable to changing circumstances. My primary goal is to excel in my career. How often do you foresee this role requiring travel or extended periods away?"
"I've reviewed the job description thoroughly and am confident in my ability to meet all of the requirements of the position."
"I value my privacy regarding personal health matters. However, I can assure you that I'm fully capable and prepared for the responsibilities of this role."
- Avoid using military acronyms and jargon as they may be unfamiliar to your prospective employer.
- Highlight the skills used in various projects you were part of (e.g., problem-solving, technical expertise, teamwork, etc.).
- Unless the position requires it, refrain from unnecessary formalities like "sir" or "ma'am" as it may be off-putting to the hiring manager. Treat the interview as a conversation with someone familiar, while showcasing how your experience can benefit their company.
Networking Tips for Veterans
Building a strong professional network can be a game-changer in your civilian job search. Networking can open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised, provide valuable insights about industries and roles and connect you with individuals who can offer advice and support. Here are tips to effectively build and leverage your network.
Best Jobs for Veterans
Your military service has equipped you with invaluable experience that makes you a desirable candidate for various careers. If you're considering a transition, there are several fields that particularly stand out for veterans.
Expert Insight on Job Hunting
The transition from military service to a civilian career can be a significant shift. To help veterans navigate this journey, MoneyGeek has compiled expert advice on various aspects of the job-hunting process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Job Hunting for Veterans
In this section, we've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by veterans during their job search, along with answers to help you navigate your career transition more smoothly.
Being a veteran can be a significant advantage on your resume. It demonstrates that you have a strong work ethic, leadership skills, teamwork experience and the ability to work under pressure, all of which are highly valued by employers. However, it's crucial to translate your military skills and experiences into civilian terms that employers can understand.
Veterans may face challenges in finding jobs due to several reasons. One of the main issues is the difficulty in translating military skills and experiences into civilian terms. Employers may not fully understand the value of military experience. Additionally, some veterans may lack the network and connections in the civilian job market, making it harder to find opportunities.
Yes, the military can help you get a job in several ways. The military provides valuable training and skills that are transferable to many civilian jobs. Additionally, there are numerous resources and programs available to veterans to assist in job searches, including job fairs, career counseling and job placement services.
Marketing your military experience involves translating your skills and experiences into civilian terms. Highlight transferable skills you gained in the military, such as leadership, teamwork, discipline and problem-solving. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application, focusing on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job. Networking can also be a powerful tool in marketing your military experience.
Employment Resources
Consult these resources to help you continue your research on your transfer to the civilian job world.
- American Corporate Partners: This charity supports veterans as they shift from military roles to everyday jobs. They provide tools like mentoring, advice and networking to help build lasting careers.
- CareerOneStop: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop offers a wide range of services to help veterans with employment, training and financial help after military service.
- Feds Hire Vets: A U.S. Office of Personnel Management resource for federal employment information for veterans, transitioning military service members and their families.
- Hire Heroes USA: This nonprofit provides free job search assistance to U.S. military members, veterans and military spouses and helps companies connect with opportunities to hire them.
- Military Job Listings: This is a job search engine that caters specifically to veterans looking for work. It allows users to search for jobs by industry, company or location.
- National Veterans' Training Institute: A part of the University of Colorado Denver, NVTI provides training to veterans' employment and training service providers. It's a useful resource for professionals who assist veterans in finding employment.
- U.S. Department of Labor Veterans' Employment and Training Service: This government site offers a variety of resources for veterans looking to transition into civilian employment.
- Veterans Employment Center: This is a comprehensive resource for accessing information on VA employment benefits and programs. It also offers tools for translating military skills into civilian skills that employers can understand.
- Veterans Employment Toolkit: This toolkit is designed to help veterans improve their employment situation with career-development tools, job search resources and information about VA and non-VA benefits and services.
- Veterans Job Matcher: This tool helps veterans find civilian careers that match their military skills and provides information about these careers including wages, job outlook and apprenticeships.
- VetJobs: VetJobs is a leading source for candidates with security clearances that seek careers in the defense and intelligence communities. They also offer resources for veterans who want to explore opportunities in other sectors.
- Vets.gov: This comprehensive resource provides information on all the benefits offered to veterans, including education and career resources.
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment: This program assists veterans with service-connected disabilities to prepare for, find and keep suitable jobs. For veterans with serious service-connected disabilities, the program offers additional services to improve their ability to live as independently as possible.
Veteran-Specific Financial Resources
Transition to civilian life from the military doesn’t stop with employment. If you’re interested in attending college, purchasing a home or starting your own business, the financial resources below can help you get started.
- Financial Support and Resources
The guide covers a wide range of topics, including financial fundamentals for managing personal finances, challenges veterans face that can impact financial health and various veteran benefits and financial support options. - Purchase a Home
Take advantage of the unique financial benefits for veterans looking to purchase a home. With a VA home loan, you can purchase with no down payment or minimum credit score, 100 percent cash out refinance and more. Talk to a qualified VA home loan lender to learn more about your options. - Start a Business
If you’re interested in starting a business, there are various types of veteran business loans that can help make your dream a reality. Explore your loan and grant options to help you craft your financial plan. - Complete a Degree Program
Veterans have a variety of academic benefits that make completing a degree an affordable option. Learn more about what financial aid, scholarships and tuition options are available to help you pay for college. - Life Insurance and Taxes
While there are veteran life insurance programs automatically provided by the U.S government’s Veteran Affairs (VA) Department, you may benefit from purchasing additional coverage for you and your beneficiaries. Additionally, as a veteran, you have access to tax benefits mostly unavailable to other civilians. Learn more about the tax breaks and benefits available to you.
About Nathan Paulus
sources
- D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. "2022 IAVA Member Survey." Accessed August 3, 2023.
- National University. "5 Best Jobs for Veterans." Accessed August 3, 2023.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Employment Situation of Veterans News Release." Accessed August 3, 2023.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook." Accessed August 3, 2023.
- U.S Department of Labor. "Veterans in the Labor Force: 6 Stats." Accessed August 3, 2023.