Dedicated. Disciplined. Determined.

Sounds like ideal characteristics in an employee, right? Interestingly, these are the same words that are top of mind for many Veterans as they transition from their military service to the civilian workforce. If you’re with me, say “OORAH!” For the doubters, you might be thinking more along the lines of rigid, relentless and restrictive - and, “who needs that?”. Keep reading, let me guide your thoughts to a more positive place.

A dedicated employee is someone engaged in the vision and has a deep connection to the mission. Many organizations have a cause; something that makes them unique and transitioning service members are looking for something to believe in. Something that generates the fire within to support the goal and give them an opportunity to be bigger than themselves.

A disciplined employee will not only be loyal; they will follow the rules. Highly successful service members live and breathe by regulations, structure and good order. Talking back, ghosting, dissing co-workers could be a thing of the past. Look for those individuals with discipline in their heart and they will not fail you.

A determined employee will support the mission and they will respect leadership during the process. They will toe the line even in difficult situations. Veterans are trained to have staying power. The past two years have presented businesses with enough twists and turns to last a lifetime, why not take a chance on someone who will stick.

So maybe you are giving some consideration to hiring a Veteran. Here’s where the rubber meets the road - EMPLOYER – you must have buy-in top to bottom. Veteran hiring programs built solely on the party line “We Support Vets” have little impact and no sustainability. Successful Veteran hiring initiatives require resources and the creation of a meaningful path towards excellence. Thinking like a Veteran will garner the best results. Hey, I’m not suggesting you change your recruitment and selection strategy from top to bottom, but I am saying there are always exceptions, room for improvement and promotion of new ideas. Consider the following:

1. Create an onboarding program that includes a successful veteran talking about his/her experience with the organization.
2. Offer a special PTO provision for service members to complete their VA physicals.
3. Create an acronym guide for your organization and share it with the transitioning service member. You should actually share this with all your employees.
4. Engage with local non-profits and other associated organizations to share your message of Veteran Support and the programs/opportunities you have.
5. Consider workshare programs for military spouses – they want to work too.

There is a vast pool of fabulous former and transitioning service members (and spouses) who have long carried the flagpole. They have considerately, conscientiously and carefully represented themselves and this great nation. Transitioning an organization to be military friendly is work, but a worthwhile effort. So why not take today to figure out how you might help a former service member make that successful transition to civilian employment.

For more information on supporting Veterans in the Workplace call us at (210) 679-4879.