Translating Military Skills into Civilian Job Applications: A Guide for Australian Veterans

by Tony Gavin | Sep 7, 2024 | Uncategorized

Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can be challenging for veterans in Australia. One of the most significant hurdles is effectively translating the highly specialised military skills gained in the Defence Force into language that resonates with civilian employers. While military service equips veterans with valuable experience and abilities, these often aren’t immediately recognisable or understood by those outside the military context. This guide aims to help veterans in Australia navigate this translation process, ensuring their skills are highlighted in a way that makes them attractive candidates in the civilian job market.

Understanding the Value of Military Experience

Veterans bring a unique set of skills to the civilian workforce, including leadership, discipline, problem-solving, and the ability to perform under pressure. However, these attributes are often masked by military jargon, which can be difficult for civilian employers to interpret. For instance, while a veteran might describe their experience as a “Platoon Commander,” a civilian employer might not understand the breadth of leadership, project management, and decision-making involved in that role. It’s essential to reframe military experience in terms that align with civilian job descriptions.

Decoding Military Jargon

The first step in translating military skills is to strip away the jargon. Instead of using titles and terms specific to the Defence Force, focus on the underlying skills and achievements. For example, a “Platoon Commander” might be better described as “Team Leader” or “Operations Manager” in a civilian context. Similarly, a role that involved “logistics and supply chain management” could be communicated as “procurement and inventory management.” By using language that mirrors civilian job descriptions, veterans can make their experience more accessible to potential employers.

Matching Military Skills to Civilian Job Requirements

Veterans should take the time to analyse job advertisements carefully, identifying the skills and attributes employers are looking for. Once these are identified, they can reflect on their military experience and draw parallels. For instance, if a job requires strong leadership and team management, a veteran might highlight their experience in leading a unit or managing personnel in high-pressure environments. Similarly, if attention to detail and process management are key, veterans can emphasise their experience in following protocols and managing complex operations.

Emphasising Soft Skills

While technical skills are crucial, soft skills such as communication, adaptability, and teamwork are often what sets candidates apart in the civilian job market. Veterans typically excel in these areas due to their rigorous training and service. It’s important to showcase these soft skills in job applications and interviews. For example, instead of just listing “communication skills,” a veteran could describe how they effectively communicated mission-critical information under challenging circumstances or how they facilitated teamwork in a diverse and dynamic environment.

Tailoring Resumes and Cover Letters

A one-size-fits-all approach to job applications rarely works. Veterans should tailor their resumes and cover letters for each position they apply for, focusing on the skills and experiences most relevant to the job. This might involve reordering bullet points to highlight the most pertinent achievements or tweaking language to better match the job description. By customising each application, veterans can ensure their military experience is framed in the best possible light.

Seeking Support and Resources

There are numerous resources available to help Australian veterans transition into civilian employment. Organisations such as RSL Employment Program, Soldier On, and the Defence Community Organisation offer tailored support, including resume writing workshops, job search assistance, and networking opportunities. Taking advantage of these resources can provide veterans with the guidance and support they need to successfully translate their military experience into civilian job applications.

Conclusion

Translating military skills into civilian terms is a critical step for Australian veterans seeking to enter the civilian workforce. By focusing on the underlying skills, removing military jargon, and tailoring job applications to match civilian roles, veterans can present themselves as strong candidates who bring valuable experience and capabilities to any organisation. With the right approach, the transition from military to civilian employment can be a smooth and rewarding process, leading to fulfilling and meaningful careers.

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by Tony Gavin | Sep 5, 2024 | Uncategorized