Why Hire Veterans?
Hiring veterans can be a game-changer for any organization. Not only do they bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, but they also offer a range of benefits that can positively impact your business. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why hiring veterans can be a smart move for your company.
Reason #1: Unique Skillset
Veterans have spent years honing their skills in high-pressure environments, often in roles that require quick thinking, strategic planning, and effective communication. These skills are highly transferable to the civilian workforce, making veterans strong candidates for a wide range of positions.
• Leadership: Many veterans have held leadership positions in the military, where they’ve been responsible for leading teams, making tough decisions, and achieving goals under tight deadlines.
• Technical Skills: Veterans have access to specialized training and education, including advanced technical skills in areas like IT, engineering, and healthcare.
• Adaptability: Veterans are trained to adapt quickly to new situations and environments, making them highly flexible and responsive to changing circumstances.
Reason #2: Work Ethic
Veterans are known for their strong work ethic and dedication to their craft. They’re often motivated by a sense of duty, loyalty, and a desire to serve their country and community.
• Discipline: Veterans are trained to follow procedures, protocols, and guidelines, ensuring that they complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
• Respect for Authority: Veterans are accustomed to following orders and respecting chain of command, making them more likely to follow instructions and adapt to new management structures.
• Self-Discipline: Veterans are trained to be self-motivated and independent, able to work independently and make decisions without relying on others.
Reason #3: Teamwork
Veterans are skilled at working as part of a team, often in high-stress environments where collaboration and communication are critical.
• Communication: Veterans are trained to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to convey complex information and achieve common goals.
• Collaboration: Veterans are comfortable working with others, sharing responsibilities, and relying on each other to achieve a common objective.
• Trust: Veterans have learned to trust each other, building strong bonds and relationships that can last a lifetime.
Reason #4: Adaptability
Veterans are accustomed to adapting to new environments, cultures, and technologies, making them highly responsive to changing circumstances.
• Cultural Awareness: Veterans have worked with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and nationalities, giving them a unique understanding of the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Technological Savvy: Veterans have access to cutting-edge technology and training, keeping them up-to-date with the latest advancements and innovations.
• Flexibility: Veterans are trained to be flexible, able to adjust to new situations, environments, and priorities with ease.
Reason #5: Employee Retention
Veterans are known for their loyalty and commitment to their organizations, making them a valuable asset for employee retention.
• Long-Term Commitment: Veterans are more likely to commit to a company long-term, reducing turnover and recruitment costs.
• Job Satisfaction: Veterans are often highly satisfied with their work, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced absenteeism.
• Leadership Potential: Veterans have a strong potential for leadership, making them a valuable asset for succession planning and career development.
Reason #6: Business Benefits
Hiring veterans can also bring a range of benefits to your business, including:
• Tax Credits: The Wounded Warrior Project and other organizations offer tax credits to businesses that hire veterans.
• Reputation: Hiring veterans can enhance your company’s reputation, demonstrating a commitment to supporting those who have served.
• Diversity: Veterans bring a unique perspective and skillset to the workforce, increasing diversity and promoting a more inclusive work environment.
Conclusion
Hiring veterans can be a win-win for both the veteran and the organization. With their unique skillset, strong work ethic, and adaptability, veterans can bring a range of benefits to your business. By recognizing the value of veterans and providing them with opportunities for employment, you can not only improve your business but also contribute to the well-being of those who have served.
Veteran Hiring Statistics
- 75% of veterans are employed within six months of leaving the military.
- 60% of veterans are employed in the private sector.
- 40% of veterans are employed in the public sector.
- 20% of veterans are self-employed.
Veteran Hiring Programs
- Transition Assistance Program (TAP): A Department of Defense program that provides career counseling and job placement assistance to transitioning service members.
- Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS): A Department of Labor program that provides job training and placement assistance to veterans.
- Wounded Warrior Project (WWP): A non-profit organization that provides employment services, including job placement and career counseling, to wounded veterans.
Veteran-Friendly Employers
- IBM: IBM has a dedicated veteran recruitment program and offers a range of benefits, including tuition reimbursement and flexible work arrangements.
- Microsoft: Microsoft has a veteran hiring program and offers a range of benefits, including mentorship and career development opportunities.
- Bank of America: Bank of America has a veteran hiring program and offers a range of benefits, including tuition reimbursement and flexible work arrangements.
Veteran-Friendly Certifications
- Hire Heroes USA: A non-profit organization that provides job placement assistance and training to veterans.
- Veterans on Wall Street: A non-profit organization that provides job placement assistance and training to veterans in the financial industry.
- Certified Veteran-Friendly Employer: A certification program that recognizes employers that have demonstrated a commitment to hiring and retaining veterans.
