MightyRecruiterThinking of a person in any branch of the Armed Forces brings to mind someone with courage, strength, and a commanding presence. However, military members have more to offer than just physical and mental toughness. Their varied and specific set of skills make them excellent job candidates once they return to their civilian lives. As an employer, you should hire veterans to take advantage of the unique attributes and expertise they have gained while serving their country.
Specific Qualities and Skills Veterans Have
The knowledge and abilities these men and women have depend on the roles they had on duty. Still, there are some traits you will find across the board, such as discipline, precision, reliability, and intelligence. Some of the technical skills they may have include proficiency in the following areas. – Computer programming and software development – Internet security and cryptology – Mechanics and engineering – Health and emergency care – Training and education – Transportation – Food service – Physical fitness
How These Qualities and Skills Translate to the Workplace
If you work in any of the above industries, it’s easy to see why you should hire veterans who have backgrounds in those sectors. If your business isn’t related to any of these fields, however, don’t dismiss your veteran applicants. Their know-how can easily be translated into the workplace no matter what the job is. Veterans have leadership experience that make them effective supervisors and coordinators. They are able to make hard decisions, motivate and persuade others, and assess and take risks. Not only are they great leaders, but they also know how to be great followers and respect those above them. They value and cooperate in team work and are able to multitask. Whether they end up in higher-level or lower-level positions, their interpersonal experience allows them to be effectual negotiators, problem solvers, and listeners. Anything they need to learn, they can pick up quickly. Military personnel know how to handle stress and adapt to changes and new environments. Other characteristics they are likely to have that are necessary and desirable include being: – Organized – Resilient – Resourceful – Accurate – Analytical – Honest – Punctual – Perseverant
Other Benefits of Hiring Veterans
Their unique capabilities aren’t the only reason why you should hire veterans. Some states offer tax incentives for employing veterans who meet certain qualifications. Talk to your tax specialist to find out if your state has such a program. Perhaps you are concerned over the possibility of these men and women having mental health issues, such as PTSD, as a result of their service. However, employment can be beneficial to their well-being. It can help them transition back to civilian life more smoothly. It can give them a purpose and make them feel useful and needed. It can become a stepping stone for a new career. Most important, it allows them to take care of themselves financially and be independent. Giving a military person a job is an easy way for you to express your gratitude for his or her service. It’s an opportunity to give back to those who have given so much to provide freedom and protection for this country.
Tips for the Hiring Process
There is a certain way in which you should hire veterans. First, there are online resources you can use to match specific military careers with the careers available at your company. This will help you know what kind of experience to look for in an applicant. Second, there are reputable programs that help employers find veterans in need of work. The ones recommended by the government are: 1. Wounded Warrior Project 2. Army Career Alumni Program 3. Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces 4. Veterans Job Bank of the National Resource Directory 5. Veteran Representatives of One-Stop Career Centers 6. VetSuccess 7. Warrior Transition Command 8. VA’s Homeless Veteran Supported Employment Program During the interview process, remember that people from the Armed Forces are used to being professional, respectful, and humble, and are not being distant or underselling themselves. Also, be aware that you can’t ask them what type of discharge they received, if they are going to be called for duty in the near future, how they received wounds, or whether or not they see a psychiatrist.
Make the Hire
You should hire veterans because they are well-rounded individuals who can make a positive difference in your company. Next time you have an open position, be sure to include a veteran or two in your pool of candidates. For more information on hiring, check out the other articles on Mighty Recruiter.