As a fair employer, you proudly comply with all Equal Employment Opportunity laws, but when it comes to veterans, you’d like to do more.
The veteran unemployment rate is 3.2%, as of December 2018. This is an undeniably low number, but it’s your goal to help it dwindle even lower. Here are a few ways you can help make the shift from the military to civilian life a little easier for the men and women who bravely served our country.
Four Ways to Help Veterans Transition Into the Workforce
Take Military Service Into Consideration
When reviewing a veteran’s resume, take their transferrable skills into consideration. They might not meet all the requirements listed in the job posting, but abilities like problem-solving, self-discipline and the capacity to quickly adapt to change should never be overlooked. Veterans have a notoriously strong work ethic, so feel certain they’ll acquire any job-related skills they’re lacking in record time.
Help Them Get Licensed
Professional licenses can require a significant amount of time and money to acquire. This can be a huge barrier to entry for veterans who need to need to start earning a paycheck now. When possible, consider providing financial assistance to help pay for their license and/or hire them before they’re licensed, making their employment contingent on getting their license as soon as possible.
It can also be incredibly helpful to extend this benefit to military spouses. Since the nature of their partner’s job can require them to move frequently, this can impact their earning power. Understanding the situation they’re in and providing any possible assistance can make a world of difference.
Be Patient
Making the move from the military to civilian life is a major adjustment. If you haven’t served in the armed forces, you can’t understand what they’re going through, but you can be patient. This is a huge life change, so give them time to adapt to their new surroundings.
Volunteer With Organizations That Help Veterans
Encourage your staff to give back to the veteran community by volunteering for nonprofits that support them. Groups like Hire Heroes USA and the USO rely on the support of partner organizations and volunteers. Making volunteering a team effort is a great way to assist those who have given so much to our country.
Ready to help Veterans transition into your workforce? As a proud supporter of our troops, Premium Staffing, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to get started!