From Service to the Workplace

Since the military values leadership, many veterans develop strong leadership skills in their early 20s and can train and lead team members. They are taught how to make decisions in high-pressure situations, develop a plan to carry out the decision, and actually carry it out. Given the many responsibilities they were tasked with during service, they can see the bigger picture to make decisions and guide team members to the end goals. Moreover, they understand the responsibility of considering others’ welfare and act accordingly.

It’s a given that vets learn how to adapt to hectic situations, which is a great skill that benefits the workplace. During stressful times, they can handle the tension and make effective decisions in the moment while remaining calm. Their quick problem-solving skills efficiently mitigate any problems and can bring about new policies that positively impact operations.

If there are not enough resources available for an internal support group, consider offering a mentorship program. Since the military can be very structured, there can be a learning curve for jobs with less structure. Through a mentorship program, a veteran is matched to a dedicated person who will provide individual support and guidance to adapt to the new company. With specialized support, the mentor can help a vet navigate the company culture and learn about potential career paths. Most importantly, this will help them feel comfortable.

Many veterans have worked with people from different backgrounds, shaping their views and providing them with a distinctive perspective. This perspective helps them be more attentive to coworkers and be open-minded to new ideas. As a result, peers will feel more comfortable in the workplace, knowing there is someone who will be understanding. Moreover, this diverse viewpoint helps bring a fresh outlook to business ideas and operations.         

During service, there are many sectors in the military that veterans can explore and be trained in. Since there are many skills to develop, taking new classes or studying for certificates is prioritized. These skills range from technical, project management, engineering, and even healthcare. Skills developed here can be easily applied to the appropriate field.

Considering skills veterans gained during their service will bring a unique perspective to the workplace. By hiring a veteran, you will gain an employee who is dedicated, a natural leader, and understands teamwork. Their distinctive experience and work ethic make them a valuable addition.