How to Create a Winning Resume with Your Military Experience

How to Create a Winning Resume with Your Military Experience

Created on Monday, November 28 2016

Written by Natalie Severt

Military TransitionTransitioning from military to civilian life and employment isn't a piece of cake. If you're a veteran and a job seeker, you know what I'm talking about. Have you been sending out your military resume and not getting any replies from employers? You're not alone.

A recent study found out that veterans list finding a job as the greatest challenge they face when transitioning to civilian life.

So, can your military resume even land you a job? Sure. But only as long as you translate all of the valuable skills you've acquired while working in the military into competencies that are relevant to civilian jobs.

Here's how to get the most out of your military experience while writing your civilian resume.

1. Remember That Your Resume Serves Particular Objectives

As a professional transitioning from the military to the civilian sector, you need a resume that meets specific criteria. Naturally, it should entice recruiters to call you for an interview. But it also needs to serve as proof of your ability to transition into civilian employment. That's why you should demonstrate the civilian applications of your military skills and experiences. Your resume should also aim to bridge the gap between the professional you were in the service, and the civilian employee you wish to become.

2. Plan Your Career, Here's How

You won't be able to market your skills for a civilian job if you haven't developed a career strategy first. Start with your military employment and research occupations which are close to the positions you've held previously. You've got a specific skill set and training. Have a look around to see which industries employ people with these qualifications. If you're undecided, it's not a problem. You can write several versions of your resume for different career paths.

Got your target job? Great.

Now, list all your skills, education, and experience that are relevant and valuable. For an obvious example, if you're applying for a job in accounting, your marksmanship skills won't help you land the position. Expect to let go of some of your skills. That’s simply part of transitioning to a different industry.

If you list irrelevant skills and experiences on your resume, recruiters won’t see you as a relevant candidate.  Focus only on qualifications that you can transfer to your new role.

For more information please click the link below

http://www.veteransenterprise.com/index.php/articles-online-magazine/articles/work/574-how-to-create-a-winning-resume-with-your-military-experience