How to List Military Service on Resume
Why List Military Service on Resume?
Listing military service on a resume can be a valuable addition for job seekers, especially those transitioning from the military to civilian life. Military service provides valuable skills, training, and experience that can be directly applied to many civilian careers. Additionally, listing military service on a resume can:
- Demonstrate discipline and commitment: Military service requires discipline, hard work, and commitment, which are highly valued by employers.
- Highlight transferable skills: Military training and experience can translate to civilian jobs, such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Showcase adaptability and flexibility: Military service often requires adapting to new situations and environments, which can be an attractive quality to employers.
How to List Military Service on Resume
When listing military service on a resume, it’s essential to follow these guidelines:
1. Create a Separate Section
Create a separate section on your resume dedicated to your military service. This section should be titled "Military Service" or "Veteran’s Service" and should be placed near the top of your resume, below your summary or objective statement.
2. Include Relevant Information
Include the following information in your military service section:
- Branch and Rank: Include the branch of the military you served in (e.g., Army, Navy, Air Force, etc.) and your rank or rating.
- Dates of Service: Include the dates you served in the military, including the start and end dates.
- Job Title and Description: Include your job title and a brief description of your duties and responsibilities.
- Awards and Decorations: Include any notable awards or decorations you received during your service.
- Skills and Training: Highlight any relevant skills or training you received during your service, such as language proficiency, certifications, or specialized training.
Example:
Military Service
- Branch: United States Army
- Rank: Sergeant
- Dates of Service: 2010-2015
- Job Title: Infantryman
- Description: Served as an infantryman in a combat zone, responsible for leading a team of soldiers and conducting missions.
- Awards and Decorations: Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal
- Skills and Training: Proficient in Arabic language, certified in first aid and emergency medical response.
3. Use Keywords and Action Verbs
Use keywords and action verbs to describe your military service and skills. This will help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eye of hiring managers.
Example:
- Conducted patrols and missions in a combat zone, leading a team of soldiers and overseeing daily operations.
- Developed and implemented strategies to improve team performance and enhance situational awareness.
- Provided leadership and mentorship to junior soldiers, fostering a positive and productive team environment.
4. Highlight Transferable Skills
Highlight the transferable skills you gained during your military service, such as:
- Leadership: Demonstrated leadership skills by leading a team of soldiers and making critical decisions.
- Communication: Developed strong communication skills through written and verbal reports, briefings, and presentations.
- Problem-Solving: Utilized problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and challenges in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
- Teamwork: Worked effectively as part of a team to achieve common goals and objectives.
5. Consider Adding a Certificate or Badge
Consider adding a certificate or badge to your resume to highlight your military service and skills. This can be a:
- Veteran’s Preference Certificate: A certificate issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs to honor your military service.
- Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Badge: A badge that represents your military job specialty.
- Combat Action Badge: A badge awarded to soldiers who have seen combat.
Table: Military Service Section
| Section | Information |
|---|---|
| Branch | United States Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Dates of Service | 2010-2015 |
| Job Title | Infantryman |
| Description | Served as an infantryman in a combat zone, responsible for leading a team of soldiers and conducting missions. |
| Awards and Decorations | Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal |
| Skills and Training | Proficient in Arabic language, certified in first aid and emergency medical response |
Conclusion
Listing military service on a resume can be a valuable addition for job seekers, especially those transitioning from the military to civilian life. By following these guidelines, you can effectively highlight your military service and skills, demonstrating your value to potential employers. Remember to create a separate section, include relevant information, use keywords and action verbs, highlight transferable skills, and consider adding a certificate or badge. With these tips, you can showcase your military service and increase your chances of landing your dream job.
