Veteran job seekers offer a wide array of skills, experience and talent that businesses across the U.S. should be looking to tap into.
At present, the latest Census Bureau data shows there are approximately 12.1 million veterans aged between 21 and 64 residing in the U.S. and as many as one-third of this group are veterans with disabilities . As a result, companies that are able to engage with these individuals can gain access to a large and qualified talent pool.
What do veterans bring to a business?
From the structured and ordered environment that comes with a strong focus on discipline, to new ways of thinking that can diversify an organization’s ability to address major problems, veterans have the skills to help improve businesses. These skills include:
- Strong leadership skills
- A commitment to open and honest communication
- Strong sense of discipline and a can-do attitude
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Being well-rounded and enthusiastic employees
Understanding the importance of how to effectively engage with veterans is essential for businesses hoping to tap into this diverse group of talented individuals. However, what diverse companies must realize is that positioning oneself as an employer of choice among veteran candidates is not always easy.
How to better engage with veteran job seekers
For those interested in improving their levels of engagement with this group, one of the key focuses they must have is in how they portray themselves both online and in person.
Businesses must ensure they are showcasing an inclusive and diverse culture in their company literature, on their website and in all interactions with customers, prospects and potential hires. This means adopting inclusive language at all times, and highlighting your previous successes in onboarding and retaining veterans.
Reaching out to veteran organizations and partnering with them can also be crucial when demonstrating a strong commitment to veteran hiring. This means actively working alongside local partners to support veteran job seekers in your community, as well as engaging with national charities and bodies like the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs , the Wounded Warrior Project or Able Forces .
Companies with a focus on increased veteran uptake will also need to educate their hiring teams on gaps in communication. Many veterans will have spent years working in the armed forces, and may need support in transitioning into the civilian workforce . This can come in the form of support during the interview process as many veterans may not have been involved in a formal interview before to helping to translate their skills from the armed forces.
Where can I find out more?
Companies that are actively recruiting within the veteran community can draw on the talent of these skilled professionals to support their goals of becoming more inclusive employers and filling the gap in the talent landscape across the U.S.
Businesses interested in increasing veteran hiring should get in touch with Patrick Hodge or Lawrence Wilde , our veteran experts, at Getting Hired.
Contact us today and allow us to help you meet your veteran recruitment needs.
