How to Make your Workplace an Attractive Destination for Former Military Members

For organizations seeking to strengthen their teams, military veterans represent an exceptional talent pool. Time spent in the armed services often affords highly valuable skills including adaptability, leadership, and an unmatched work ethic.

Recently, we highlighted several of the many positive attributes that veterans bring to the workplace. But it takes some effort to attract these highly sought after individuals. Here are some suggestions that will help make your company a preferred employer amongst those who served.

Craft Veteran-Focused Job Descriptions

Veterans are generally drawn to workplaces that emphasize problem-solving, teamwork, and mission-driven projects. Highlight these aspects in your job postings to increase interest from former military personnel.

Tap Into Specialized Recruitment Channels

Former service members often use unique job search pathways when seeking employment. These include veteran-focused job fairs and specialized job boards. State government offices - such as employment offices - frequently help connect employers with veteran job seekers, making recruitment more straightforward than you might expect.

Engage Current Veteran Employees

If veterans are already part of your team, they can be your most powerful recruitment tool. Word of mouth and personal recommendations can go far in expanding your applicant pool.

Prioritize Skills Over Experience

Military experience often provides intensive skill development that exceeds traditional workplace learning curves. When evaluating candidates, recognize that shorter periods of high-intensity service may equal or surpass longer tenures of training in conventional job settings.

Highlight Community Engagement

Many veterans are committed to maintaining their public service even after leaving the military. Promoting your organization's community initiatives can strongly appeal to former service members.

Some Additional Ideas

Both The U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offer extensive resources to help organizations launch or expand their veteran hiring initiatives.

Looking for an HR partner to help you attract former military members?

At BestFit, we can help you find a the right solution that will optimize your workforce, including the implementation of veteran hiring programs.