How to Add Military Experience to a Resume
As a military veteran, you’ve acquired skills and experiences that can be highly valuable to civilian employers. However, highlighting your military experience on a resume can be a challenging task. In this article, we’ll provide you with guidance on how to add military experience to a resume, making it more attractive to potential employers.
What Are the Benefits of Including Military Experience on a Resume?
Including military experience on a resume can offer numerous benefits, including:
• Transferable Skills: Military experience often translates to valuable skills that can be applied to civilian roles, such as leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
• Unique Training: Military training programs can provide specialized skills, certifications, and licenses that set you apart from other job candidates.
• Improved Leadership: Military experience demonstrates your ability to lead teams, manage projects, and make tough decisions under pressure.
• Enhanced Network: Military service often builds a network of professional connections that can be valuable in the civilian job market.
• Increased Chances of Getting Hired: Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with military experience, as they possess skills that are highly valued in the workforce.
Tips for Adding Military Experience to a Resume
Here are some tips to help you add military experience to a resume:
1. Identify Transferable Skills
Highlight the skills you’ve gained in the military that can be applied to civilian roles, such as:
| Transferable Skills | Example Tasks |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Supervised teams, coordinated logistics, and made decisions |
| Communication | Provided reports, briefings, and presentations |
| Problem-Solving | Analyzed data, identified solutions, and implemented plans |
| Adaptability | Worked in dynamic environments, adapted to new situations |
2. Use a Functional Format
Use a functional resume format to focus on your skills and experience rather than your work history. This is particularly useful if you’re changing careers or re-entering the workforce.
3. Emphasize Achievements
Highlight achievements and accomplishments rather than just listing job responsibilities. This can include:
- Successful projects or missions
- Awards or recognition received
- Quantifiable results (e.g., increased productivity, reduced costs)
- Leadership roles or supervisory positions
4. Use Keywords and Action Verbs
Use keywords related to the job you’re applying for and action verbs to describe your skills and experience. This can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the attention of hiring managers.
| Action Verbs | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Managed | Teamwork, Leadership, Operations |
| Coordinated | Planning, Logistics, Administration |
| Analyzed | Data, Research, Reporting |
| Implemented | Strategy, Tactics, Training |
5. Include Military Ratings and Certifications
List any military ratings or certifications you’ve obtained, as these can be highly valued by civilian employers.
| Military Rating/Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) | Certified in bomb disposal and explosive handling |
| Distinguished Flying Cross | Awarded for exceptional aerial skills and bravery |
| Parachute Rigger Certification | Certified in parachuting and rigging procedures |
6. Include Your Military Branch and Paygrade
Include your military branch and paygrade on your resume to provide context and credibility.
| Military Branch | Paygrade |
|---|---|
| United States Army | Staff Sergeant (E-6) |
| United States Navy | Lieutenant (O-3) |
| United States Air Force | Technical Sergeant (E-7) |
Conclusion
Adding military experience to a resume requires a strategic approach. By identifying transferable skills, using a functional format, emphasizing achievements, using keywords and action verbs, including military ratings and certifications, and listing your military branch and paygrade, you can effectively showcase your military experience to potential employers. Remember to tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, and highlight your unique skills and achievements to stand out from the competition.
