Show That You Can Move on From Military

As a veteran who benefited from the jump start that the military gave my career, I too would advocate maximizing your service and experience for all it's worth.

That being said, I would also advise getting past your military background as soon as possible. Advance yourself with a college degree and private-sector experience -- because not only will a military background only get you so far, but it may also end up working against you.

What I mean by this is that the the higher you get on the corporate ladder, the more the progression of your career path becomes important. Employers look to see a steady advancement in job scope and responsibilities. Yes, starting in the military and advancing is good, but in order to show that you've moved on (to an extent that really makes you qualified for taking on a truly challenging role) you need to show that you've moved way past a stint in the military that likely came right after high school.

On a final note, as much nice as it is to think that veterans should get special status in the private sector, but the fact is, what truly makes a candidate qualified in the private sector is just that, qualifications. If you're no longer on active duty, you better start acting like it and move on.

(Submitted by Jim Krushnick)

Comments

[Lori]

I agree.

[Capman95]

Hmm...interesting statement. But, i for one, believe that ANYONE who is in the United States Military is a hero. Therefore they should be treated as so.

[Jim]

No, not everyone who served/serves in the military is a hero. Some are, but most are just average people like anyone else. There's no reason an employer should base their decision to hire someone soley based on having been in the military. That would go against the very free market, competitive nature of what makes the American so strong. It should, and is, based on actual qualifications as they pertain directly to the position you're seeking.