Heroes: Why CRE benefits from more military veterans
Aug 28, 2023
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Retired military officers Adam Rocke, Pat Rios, and Michelle Butters discuss how veterans benefit companies, transitioning from military to civilian life, personal stories, hiring veterans, wellness & work-life balance, and benefits of hiring veterans.
Veterans bring unique skills like leadership and adaptability that can help overcome skilled labor shortages.
Employers should establish military hiring programs and understand the intangible skills veterans possess.
Deep dives
Transitioning from the Military to the Private Sector
Transitioning from the military to the private sector can be a challenging process, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can lead to a successful career. Veterans bring unique skills to the table, including leadership, adaptability, and discipline. It is important for employers to look beyond the resume and have conversations with veterans to understand their skills and experiences. Building a strong network and seeking out opportunities for upskilling and education can greatly enhance a successful transition. For transitioning service members, it is crucial to start the transition process early and take advantage of resources like networking, resume building, and skill development programs. Overall, the military provides a foundation for success in the private sector, and with proper support and guidance, veterans can thrive in civilian careers.
Benefits of Hiring Military Veterans
Employers who hire military veterans gain access to a pool of talented individuals with a strong work ethic, leadership training, and the ability to adapt quickly. Veterans bring valuable intangible skills, such as discipline, problem-solving, and critical thinking, which are highly sought after in the corporate world. Creating a culture that supports veterans and understands their unique experiences can promote wellness and work-life balance. Employers can establish military hiring programs to demonstrate their commitment to hiring veterans, use resources like ombudsmen or military hiring managers to bridge the communication gap between military skills and civilian job requirements, and ultimately provide opportunities for veterans to showcase their abilities and contribute to the organization's success.
Supporting the Transition Process
Organizations like Hiring Our Heroes provide valuable support and resources for both veterans and employers. Programs like the Skillbridge program, which allows transitioning service members to participate in pre-apprenticeship programs and job training during the last 180 days of their military service, help bridge the gap between military and civilian careers. Employers can get involved by establishing military hiring programs, offering internships or fellowships, and providing mentorship and networking opportunities. Veterans can take advantage of these programs, build strong networks, invest in their skills and education, and actively seek out organizations that value their military experience. By working together, veterans, employers, and support organizations can ensure a seamless and successful transition process for the men and women who have served in the military.
Building a Successful Career in the Private Sector
Building a successful career in the private sector requires careful planning, networking, and continuous self-improvement. Veterans should identify their career goals and the industries they are interested in, and then build a network of contacts in those fields. Networking is crucial in finding opportunities and understanding the culture of organizations. Veterans should focus on translating their military experience into tangible skills and experiences that are relevant in the private sector, emphasizing leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. Employers should also go beyond resumes and have conversations with veterans to truly understand their potential. By focusing on culture fit and providing opportunities for growth and development, employers can create an environment where veterans can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
On this episode, three retired military officers—Hiring Our Heroes’ Adam Rocke, Cleveland Clinic’s Pat Rios and CBRE’s Michelle Butters—discuss how veterans can help companies overcome skilled labor shortages and share advice on transitioning from military to civilian life.
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