Navigating the transition from military service to civilian employment can be challenging for veterans. Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine, had the privilege of interviewing Cedric Solice, College Recruitment Specialist at Builders FirstSource. Here are his seven dos & don’ts on supporting veterans in the workforce:
- Do Recognize and Appreciate Veterans’ Skills
Recognizing the valuable skills that veterans bring to the table is essential. Their strong work ethic, adaptability and resilience are assets that can significantly benefit any organization. The veteran background reflects a professional who is trainable in diverse environments and can immediately apply that training. Employers should actively acknowledge and appreciate these qualities when hiring veterans.
- Don’t Overlook Transferable Skills
Solice highlights the need for employers to see beyond the military background of veterans. Rather than focusing solely on specific military job titles, employers should recognize the transferable skills that veterans possess. This approach allows for a more inclusive hiring process, tapping into a diverse range of talents.
- Do Foster a Veteran-Friendly Workplace
Builders FirstSource actively fosters a veteran-friendly workplace by providing support, mentorship programs and on-the-job training. Creating an environment that values the contributions of veterans enhances overall organizational success. Employers should strive to make their workplaces inclusive, recognizing the unique needs of veterans.
- Don’t Neglect Continuous Support
According to Solice, ongoing support for veterans within the organization is critical. Employers should not view hiring veterans as a one-time initiative but instead implement continuous support mechanisms, such as mentorship programs and professional development opportunities, to ensure a seamless transition and long-term success.
- Do Encourage Collaborative Initiatives
Solice stresses the significance of collaboration between organizations, government agencies and the private sector. Initiatives such as job fairs and educational resources can bridge the gap between military service and civilian employment. Employers should actively participate in and support such collaborative efforts to create a more veteran-friendly workforce. However, employers should be mindful of doing so with honest and legitimate intentions.
- Don’t Neglect Concrete Actions
U.S. Veterans Magazine commends companies like Builders FirstSource for taking concrete actions to support veterans. Employers should not merely pay lip service to veteran inclusion but should implement tangible initiatives showcasing a genuine commitment to supporting those who have served our country.
- Just Because You Served Doesn’t Mean You Deserve
While military service instills valuable skills and discipline, it doesn’t automatically guarantee a job in the civilian sector. The relevance of acquired skills, industry-specific knowledge, adaptability to corporate culture and meeting job-specific requirements are crucial considerations. In a competitive job market, veterans must actively demonstrate their qualifications, achievements and motivation, recognizing that military service is one distinguishing factor among many.
Networking, research and professionalism—including dressing appropriately and preparing for interviews—play integral roles in the job-seeking process. Success requires proactive efforts to align military experiences with civilian expectations and to compete effectively in the diverse landscape of potential employment opportunities. Solice values proactive candidates who demonstrate a thorough knowledge of his company and available job opportunities when approaching his booth at conferences.
In summary, supporting veterans in the workforce requires a proactive and genuine approach. By recognizing and appreciating their skills, fostering a veteran-friendly workplace and actively participating in collaborative initiatives, employers can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Avoiding common pitfalls, such as overlooking transferable skills and neglecting continuous support, ensures a successful and lasting integration of veterans into the civilian workforce.
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