If you are a military officer or non-commissioned officer (NCO), then you know that what is written on your evaluation reports is critical to the advancement of your career in the military.
When you retire or transition from the military to the civilian sector, how you translate the information from your evaluation reports onto a professional resume will make a difference between getting "just a new job" or a "great new career."
Here are three tips for military transition resumes that will significantly increase your chances of getting job interviews in your top choice companies.
Tip #1: Lay Off The Military Acronyms On Your Resume
Yes, I know how you used them every day since you signed up to work for Uncle Sam, but it's time to stop. The reason for this is because civilian employers usually have no idea what they mean and won't take the time to figure them out. Get in the habit of spelling everything out, even if it is cumbersome. Save the acronyms for when you are barbecuing or drinking with your old military buddies. You'll thank me for it.
Tip #2: Translate Your Military Skills And Strengths Into Corporate Skills And Strengths
Some of my transitioning military clients have undersold themselves and wonder why they haven't gotten many job interviews. Listen, you have done things and been responsible for more in your time in the military than most people will in their entire lives! Have you led others? How many? What was the dollar value of the supplies and equipment you were in charge of? What kind of schooling and training did you receive?
If you were an officer or NCO, you are probably better qualified than 90% or more of the other job applicants. You just got to show them how and why you are better qualified on your resume!
Tip #3 Have Your Resume Written By A Professional Who Was Prior Military
Each branch of the military has numerous specialty branches. And just as I wouldn't expect an infantry soldier to be an F-16 pilot, you shouldn't expect to be a stellar professional resume writer. Professional resume writers are experts at what they do, just as you are an expert at what you do.
However, when you gather up your military records and evaluation reports, make sure that the professional resume writer you decide to work with has been in the military. After all, I am sure you would agree that someone who is prior military will be much more qualified to create a winning resume for you than someone who isn't.
