6 Tips On Writing Resumes for Veterans
Now that you are out of the service, what to do next? Here are a few tips for writing resumes for veterans.
Did you know that there are over 19 million veterans in the United States? The unemployment rate for all veterans is a remarkable 3.5 percent. This rate is actually lower than the national average.
Veterans have much to offer U.S. corporations and small businesses. Serving our nation, especially during a war, is a unique experience that few Americans possess.
As you transition out of the uniform, now is the time to take stock of your skill set and enter the civilian workforce. Read on to learn how to write the perfect resume. Explore 6 tips for writing resumes for veterans.
1. Highlight Your Leadership Skills
The military is renowned for developing world-class leaders. Due to its hierarchical nature, the vast majority of veterans develop leadership skills over time. This is true for both enlistees and officers.
Strong leaders are in demand at all levels of the American workforce. Your leadership skills are certain to make your resume stand out against the civilian competition.
2. Emphasis the Skills You Learned
Every veteran learned a specific job or skill while on active duty. In fact, the military is like its own micro-economy. Each branch trains engineers, doctors, chefs, and more.
Your resume is an opportunity to emphasize the skills you mastered on active duty. Take time to highlight each job skill that you performed for the military as it is considered work experience.
3. Indicate Training and Professional Certifications
One thing that many people overlook about the military is the superb training programs that are offered. When the military identifies the skill you will master, they provide robust training for it.
At a minimum, military training is equivalent to vocational schools or professional certification programs. On your resume, identify major training programs or courses that you completed.
4. Tailor Your Resume for Each Application
Each job opening requires a different set of responsibilities and qualifications. One advantage of military service is the broad experience that is acquired.
First, carefully read the job posting’s requirements. Next, tailor your work experience to clearly demonstrate that you meet those requirements.
5. Avoid Using Military Language
Many veterans can attest to speaking in military language. The military is well-known for using unique acronyms, code words, and jargon.
It is important that you strip this out of your resume. The vast majority of employers are not familiar with this type of language. This is especially true for acronyms that are unknown to the civilian world.
6. Sell Yourself
This is the final step to a successful veteran resume. Here you can highlight the top achievements of your military career.
The military brass is exceptional at recognizing its top performers. Make sure to emphasize any awards, medals, or other honors you received during your career.
A Recap of Writing Resumes for Veterans
There is a good reason why veterans are in demand. Veterans are known for integrity and stellar leadership. In addition, they complete leadership training programs and develop specific job skills.
If you need help writing resumes for veterans, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
