How to put military experience on a resume?

How to Put Military Experience on a Resume

As a veteran, you’ve gained valuable skills and experience during your military service. However, translating those skills into a civilian resume can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to effectively put your military experience on a resume, increasing your chances of landing a job in the civilian sector.

Why Highlight Military Experience on a Resume?

Employers value military experience because it demonstrates:

• Leadership skills: Military personnel are trained to lead and manage teams, making them attractive candidates for leadership positions.
• Problem-solving skills: Military personnel are trained to think critically and solve complex problems under pressure.
• Discipline and work ethic: Military personnel are known for their strong work ethic and discipline, which translates well to a civilian work environment.
• Transferable skills: Military skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, are highly transferable to civilian careers.

How to Put Military Experience on a Resume

Here are some tips to help you effectively put your military experience on a resume:

1. Use a Functional Resume Format

A functional resume format focuses on your skills and qualifications rather than your work history. This is ideal for military personnel who may not have a traditional work history.

2. Use Keywords and Phrases

Use keywords and phrases from the job description to describe your military experience. This will help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eye of hiring managers.

3. Highlight Achievements and Accomplishments

Instead of just listing your job responsibilities, focus on the achievements and accomplishments you’ve made during your military service. Quantify your achievements by using numbers and statistics.

4. Emphasize Transferable Skills

Highlight the transferable skills you’ve gained during your military service, such as:

• Communication skills: Highlight your experience with written and verbal communication, including reports, briefings, and presentations.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Emphasize your experience working with diverse teams and building strong relationships.
• Leadership skills: Highlight your experience leading teams, mentoring, and coaching.
• Problem-solving skills: Highlight your experience solving complex problems and making sound decisions under pressure.

5. Include Relevant Certifications and Training

Include any relevant certifications, training, and licenses you’ve obtained during your military service. This can include:

• Language skills: Highlight any language skills you’ve acquired during your military service.
• Technical skills: Highlight any technical skills you’ve gained, such as computer programming, data analysis, or equipment operation.
• Leadership certifications: Highlight any leadership certifications you’ve obtained, such as the Army’s Leadership Development Program.

6. Create a Separate Section for Military Experience

Create a separate section on your resume for your military experience. This can include:

• Military Service: List your military service, including the branch, rank, and dates of service.
• Duty Stations: List the duty stations you’ve served at, including the location and dates of service.
• Awards and Decorations: List any awards and decorations you’ve received, including the type and date received.

Example of a Military Experience Section

7. Get Help from a Career Counselor

If you’re struggling to put your military experience on a resume, consider getting help from a career counselor. They can help you highlight your transferable skills and create a resume that showcases your military experience.

Conclusion

Putting military experience on a resume can be a challenge, but by following these tips, you can effectively highlight your skills and qualifications. Remember to use a functional resume format, highlight achievements and accomplishments, emphasize transferable skills, include relevant certifications and training, create a separate section for military experience, and get help from a career counselor if needed. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a resume that showcases your military experience and increases your chances of landing a job in the civilian sector.