One of the biggest challenges veterans faces when transitioning to civilian careers is translating their military skills into terms that resonate with civilian employers. This guide provides practical tips and examples to help you effectively communicate your military experience.
Understanding the Importance of Translation
Civilian employers may not be familiar with military jargon and the specifics of military roles. Translating your skills and experiences helps bridge this gap, making it easier for employers to understand your qualifications.
Common Military Skills and Their Civilian Equivalents
Leadership and Team Management
- Military: “Commanded a unit of 50 soldiers.”
- Civilian: “Led a team of 50 employees, overseeing daily operations and performance.”
Project Management
- Military: “Executed multiple missions with tight deadlines.”
- Civilian: “Managed projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.”
Technical Skills
- Military: “Operated and maintained advanced weapon systems.”
- Civilian: “Managed and maintained technical equipment and systems, ensuring optimal performance.”
Steps to Translate Military Experience
Identify Transferable Skills
- Review your military experience and identify skills that are applicable to civilian jobs.
- Focus on leadership, management, technical, and logistical skills.
Research Civilian Job Descriptions
- Look at job postings for positions you are interested in.
- Note the key skills and qualifications employers are looking for.
Use Civilian-Friendly Language
- Replace military jargon with civilian terms.
- Use clear, concise language that is easy to understand.
Highlight Achievements
- Quantify your accomplishments with numbers and results.
- Example: “Increased efficiency by 15% through process improvements.”
Example Translations
Logistics Management
- Military: “Coordinated the transportation of supplies and equipment.”
- Civilian: “Managed logistics and supply chain operations, ensuring timely delivery of goods.”
Training and Development
- Military: “Trained new recruits on standard operating procedures.”
- Civilian: “Developed and conducted training programs for new employees, enhancing their skills and productivity.”
Operational Planning
- Military: “Developed strategic plans for military operations.”
- Civilian: “Created strategic plans to achieve business objectives and improve operational efficiency.”
Tools and Resources
Military Skills Translators
- Use online tools like O*NET’s Military to Civilian Crosswalk or Military.com’s Skills Translator to find civilian equivalents for military jobs.
Professional Resume Services
- Consider using professional resume writing services that specialize in military-to-civilian transitions.
Conclusion
Translating military skills into civilian terms is crucial for veterans seeking civilian employment. By identifying transferable skills, using civilian-friendly language, and highlighting your achievements, you can create a resume that effectively communicates your value to potential employers.
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