Is Hiring Veterans a Science?
Friday, August 20th, 2010This summer we were invited to take part in a seminar speaking to Human Resource Managers to discuss the benefits of and how to hire veterans and transitioning military members. Each day I continue to read articles whether in publications or in social network forums on just how confused companies are when it comes to hiring veterans.
To be upfront, we are perplexed by these articles and that corporate America still remains in such confusion as if they are trying to launch a rocket to Mars. Secondly, we still hear on a daily basis from some companies that, “Veterans do not have the relevant skills for our business.” Granted not every veteran will be qualified for every position, the simple facts are these:
Fact #1: The U.S. Military is one of the largest employers in the world. Which means it is exactly like a company only their mission is different. To support its mission of national defense it has and maintains internal departments such as Health & Human Services, Logistics, Supply Chain, Human Resources, Food Service, Aviation, Diesel & Automobile Support Services, Nuclear Power, Weather, all these to name just a few.
Fact #2: Recruiting and hiring veterans is not a brain buster. If you don’t understand the lingo, do the proper research when you review a resume, ask an individual in the company with prior service to be part of the interview process, and ask the interviewee to simplify what they did while serving in the military.
Fact #3: Numerous companies have taken advantage of this self regenerating talent pool and the skills that our veterans possess. Once you locate those individuals with the proper skill sets, these individuals will bring a high level of knowledge and competency to the organization.
How do we locate these transitioning individuals? It may be easier than you think – there are job boards, companies, groups and so much more that all specialize in the military market. Start by asking us how we can help and get you pointed in the right direction and get our veterans jobs!
Thanks and good hiring – The JobArsenal Staff