Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can feel overwhelming, but veterans bring a wealth of skills that employers deeply value.
Civilian employers may not be familiar with military jargon and the specifics of military roles. Translating your skills and experiences helps bridge this gap, making it easier for employers to understand your qualifications that you have to offer.
Military service fosters discipline, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving whilst under pressure—traits that are essential across many Civilian industries.
However, many veterans struggle with presenting their military experience in a way civilian employers understand. This is where tailoring your CV and using civilian-friendly language becomes crucial. Swapping out military jargon for business equivalents e.g. “team lead” instead of “platoon sergeant” and instead of writing “Commanded a squad of 15 infantrymen,” say “Led a team of 15 personnel, overseeing daily operations and training.” By making these minor changes, will help Civilian employers understand your Military background in more detail.
Veterans should also emphasise their soft skills such as leadership, integrity, teamwork and resilience. These are often assumed in military roles and training but should be stated during your job interviews and CV’s, as they are highly valued in the Civilian workplace.
Networking is another powerful tool, if you aren’t on LinkedIn already we would recommend you join! Engaging with veteran-friendly employers, attending career fairs, and joining professional groups can open doors and offer guidance during your transition from the Military to Civilian workplace.
Transitioning from a military to a civilian career involves more than just rewriting your CV, it’s about effectively communicating the value of your experiences and skills in a new context. By identifying your transferable skills, learning the language of the civilian workforce, focusing on your achievements, and leveraging available resources, you can successfully translate your military experience into civilian job opportunities.
For more guidance please contact us on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and we will be in touch.