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Resume Writing For Military Veterans

Tuesday, October 3rd 2023. | Resume

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Introduction

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging process, and one of the most important steps in this transition is creating a resume that effectively showcases your skills and experiences. In this article, we will provide tips and guidelines for writing a compelling resume specifically tailored for military veterans.

The Importance of a Strong Resume

A well-crafted resume is crucial for veterans seeking civilian employment, as it serves as their first impression to potential employers. It highlights their transferable skills, experiences, and accomplishments, demonstrating their value and fit for the desired position. A strong resume can significantly increase the chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing a job.

Key Elements of a Military Veteran Resume

1. Contact Information

Begin your resume by including your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Make sure your contact information is easily visible and professional.

2. Objective Statement

Write a concise and targeted objective statement that reflects your career goals and how your military experience aligns with the desired position. Tailor this statement for each job application.

3. Summary of Qualifications

Summarize your key skills, qualifications, and accomplishments in a brief section at the beginning of your resume. Highlight your leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, teamwork, adaptability, and any relevant certifications or training.

4. Military Experience

Detail your military experience, including your rank, unit, and dates of service. Focus on your responsibilities, achievements, and specific skills gained during your time in the military. Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

5. Civilian Experience

If you have any previous civilian work experience, include it in this section. Emphasize transferable skills and responsibilities that are relevant to the desired position. If you don’t have civilian experience, focus on highlighting your military experience and skills.

6. Education and Training

List your educational background, including any degrees, certifications, or specialized training you have completed. Include the names of institutions, dates of attendance, and relevant coursework or majors.

7. Skills and Abilities

Highlight your technical skills, such as computer proficiency, language fluency, and specialized training. Include any additional skills that are relevant to the desired position, such as project management, problem-solving, or communication skills.

8. Awards and Honors

Include any military or civilian awards, honors, or commendations you have received. This showcases your exceptional performance and dedication.

9. Volunteer Work and Community Involvement

If you have participated in any volunteer work or community activities, include them in this section. This demonstrates your commitment to serving others and your ability to contribute to a team.

10. References

At the end of your resume, mention that references are available upon request. Make sure to have a separate list of professional references ready, including their names, titles, contact information, and a brief description of your relationship with them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I format my military veteran resume?

When formatting your resume, use a clean and professional layout. Use clear headings, bullet points, and a consistent font style and size throughout. Avoid using excessive colors or graphics.

2. Should I include my military rank in my resume?

Yes, include your military rank in the military experience section of your resume. This provides context to your level of responsibility and leadership experience.

3. How can I translate my military experience into civilian terms?

Focus on highlighting the transferable skills gained during your military service, such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Use civilian terminology and avoid military jargon.

4. What if I don’t have civilian work experience?

If you don’t have civilian work experience, emphasize your military experience and highlight the relevant skills and accomplishments you gained during your service. Focus on demonstrating your ability to learn quickly and adapt to new environments.

5. Should I tailor my resume for each job application?

Yes, it’s important to tailor your resume for each job application. Research the job requirements and company culture, and modify your resume accordingly to highlight the skills and experiences that align with the specific position.

6. How long should my resume be?

Keep your resume concise and focused. Ideally, it should be no longer than two pages. Prioritize the most relevant information and avoid including unnecessary details.

7. Can I include military training courses in the education section?

Yes, you can include military training courses in the education section of your resume. Highlight any relevant certifications or specialized training that is applicable to the desired position.

8. Should I include my combat experience in my resume?

Include combat experience in your resume if it is relevant to the desired position or showcases specific skills, such as crisis management, decision-making under pressure, or teamwork in high-stress environments.

9. How important are keywords in my resume?

Keywords are crucial for getting your resume noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and human recruiters. Research keywords related to the desired position and include them strategically throughout your resume.

10. Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

It’s recommended to include a cover letter with your resume, as it provides an opportunity to personalize your application and highlight your motivation and qualifications for the specific job.