Whether you were in the reserves or in regular service, and regardless of the branch you served in, it can be quite a challenge to find a civilian job. This article aims to simplify your resume-writing process as well as give you tools to make the most of your job search efforts.
Here are the topics we’ll cover about veteran resume writing:
1. What is a Veteran Resume? Why is it Different?
2. What Should I include in My Veteran Resume?
3. What Are Some Tips for a Successful Veteran Job Search?
4. What Other Tips Can Help Me Find Employment as a Veteran?
What is a Veteran Resume? Why is it Different?
A veteran resume is a document that details your military experience and service, and should be tailored to showcase your skills and accomplishments. Your veteran CV has the same characteristics as a regular resume, but you have to highlight your achievements, skills and certifications rather than the chronological order of your jobs.
When creating a veteran resume, it’s important to keep the following strategies in mind.
1. First, list your achievements in order of relevance to the job you are applying for. Focus on what you can do for the position, rather than on your military experience alone.
2. Second, include any relevant certifications or licenses you have earned. This will demonstrate to employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the role. It also shows that you have taken the time to stay up to date in your field.
3. Third, highlight the skills you have developed while in the military, such as leadership and communication. Don’t discount the usefulness of soft skills in the job market.
4. Finally, customize your resume for each position you apply for. Doing this will show employers that you have taken the time to research the role and understand what is needed to be successful.
With these strategies in mind, you can create an effective veteran resume that will help you stand out from other job seekers and help you land the job you want. It should highlight your skills, achievements and accomplishments, and show prospective employers that you are well-qualified for the job you are seeking.
What Should I Include in My Veteran Resume?
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to update an existing resume, it’s important to include key elements in your veteran resume to make sure employers understand and appreciate your service and skill set.
Start by including a professional summary – this should highlight your skills, accomplishments, and the value you bring to a potential employer. Be sure to include any military training or certifications that are relevant to the job.
Next, focus on listing your experience. List your employment history in chronological order and be sure to include any volunteer or community service work that may relate to the position. You should also include any specialized skills or experience you gained while in the military that may be relevant to the new role.
Finally, be sure to include any awards or recognition you have earned for your service or work. Following these simple tips will ensure that your veteran resume stands out among other applicants and positions you as an ideal candidate for the job.
Additionally, keep these tips in mind when creating your resume:
• If you’re applying for a job in defence, use keywords that reflect the skills and experience you have as a veteran. Moreover, utilize the acronyms and phrases commonly used in your industry, as long as you know the person reading your resume will understand them.
• If you’re applying for a civilian job outside the military, use civilian language. Avoid military jargon and acronyms, as most civilian employers may not understand them. Use civilian language to describe your duties and accomplishments.
• Keep in mind that your resume should be tailored to the specific industry or job you are targeting. For instance, if you are looking for a job in the medical field, make sure to highlight your experience as a nurse or doctor. On the other hand, if you are targeting a business-related position, focus on highlighting your skills and experience related to accounting, marketing, or finance.
• Keep your resume concise and avoid extraneous details, leaving room for the reader to contact you for follow-up information or an interview.
• Highlight your achievements properly. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements, such as awards, medals, commendations, or successful missions. Quantify your accomplishments with numbers, such as the number of people you supervised or the amount of money you saved.
What Are Some Tips for A Successful Veteran Job Search?
A successful resume will land you a job interview. Here are some additional tips to improve your chances of landing the perfect job.
Tap into veteran-specific resources.
Navigating the job search process can be especially challenging for veterans. Fortunately, there are a number of veteran-specific resources available that can help make the job search easier. To maximize your job search efforts, it’s important to use these resources to your advantage. Start by utilizing resources from your local department (or office) of Veteran Affairs (VA).
The VA offers a range of programs and services specifically designed to help veterans find work. Additionally, they provide career counselling and guidance to assist with resume preparation, job search strategies and networking.
Also, don’t forget about veteran-specific career websites. Many of these sites offer unique job postings or networking opportunities that may not be available elsewhere. By tapping into these resources, veterans can improve their chances of finding employment.
Attend job fairs specific to veterans.
Attending job fairs specifically geared towards veterans can be an incredibly effective job search strategy. Job fairs provide the opportunity to network with employers who are actively looking to fill positions with veteran candidates. By attending a veteran job fair, you can increase your visibility and make connections with decision-makers in the hiring process.
Additionally, you’ll be able to learn more about the various roles and companies interested in hiring veterans. Many job fairs designed for veterans also offer extra services such as resume reviews, interview preparation, and advice from career counsellors and other experts in the veteran employment field.
Investing in a veteran job fair can be a great way to gain valuable insight into the job market, build relationships with employers and recruiters, and ultimately land your ideal job. So if you’re looking to put your veteran experience to work, don’t forget to attend a veteran job fair!
Utilize your network.
It may sound like a no-brainer, but a lot of applicants forget to leverage their network. No man is an island, and no job seeker should be an island either. Use your contacts in the military to scan for opportunities, to get recommendation letters, or just to get a foot in the door. Use every contact you have: your boxing coach, your high-school friends, or your local church group. You’d be surprised how quickly opportunities arise.
Take advantage of on-the-job training programs and apprenticeships.
Veterans have a unique set of skills and experiences that make them valuable employees, but navigating the job search can be challenging. One way to stand out to potential employers and hone your skills is to take advantage of on-the-job training programs. On-the-job training provides an excellent opportunity to develop new skills and gain valuable experience while earning a paycheck. It’s an ideal way for veterans to bridge the gap between their military service and civilian employment.
By taking advantage of on-the-job training, veterans can gain the necessary skills and qualifications employers are looking for and put themselves in a better position to land a job. There are several different types of training programs available, so do your research to know which ones could be beneficial your job search.
From apprenticeships to mentoring opportunities, on-the-job training can provide invaluable experience that will help veterans build a successful career. It’s also worth noting that some employers may offer tuition reimbursement or other incentives for those who participate in those training programs. With the right internship program, veterans can gain the knowledge and experience necessary to move forward in their career.
Use financial assistance programs.
For veterans looking to enter the job market, there are numerous resources available to help you find the right job. Utilizing financial assistance programs can be an effective strategy when it comes to getting a job. These programs will vary per branch and rank, but are easily found at your local veteran affairs centre.
Different programs can provide assistance with tuition, housing, and other educational and career development costs. These programs can help veterans find the skills and education required for their desired career and can also provide valuable advice for finding the right job.
Veterans should also take advantage of mentorship opportunities through veteran organizations, which can give them access to experienced professionals in their chosen field.
Consider using a professional resume writer: A professional resume writer with experience working with veterans can help you translate your military experience into civilian terms and create a compelling resume.
What Other Tips Can Help Me Find Employment as a
Veteran?
When applying for jobs, it is important to research the market and find out which companies value veterans’ experience. You should also research companies’ hiring practices to check if they’ll give additional weight to your particular background.
In addition to your military experience, make sure to include information about your education and work experience during the job application process.
1. List your military occupations and duties.
If you held a variety of positions in the military, list the most relevant ones on your resume. This will show that you have experience in a variety of fields. Stick to relevant experience though! You don’t want to stuff your CV or application with unnecessary details!
2. Explain any education or training you received in the military.
If you achieved any special honours or awards while serving, mention them on your resume. These can add value to your resume and help employers see that you have the qualifications they are looking for.
3. Have contact information for three references who can attest to your skills and abilities.
References who know you well will be more likely to vouch for your abilities than those who don’t know you as well. Ask three superiors, supervisors, or higher-ranking officers to write references for you. Have their contact information on hand so that employers can reach out to them directly if they have questions about you during the job search process. Remember, only give out your contacts’ information when the employer requests it!
A veteran resume can be an invaluable tool in helping you find employment as a veteran. By following these tips, you can ensure that your veteran resume is both effective and successful.