Spencer Lanoue
Crafting a military resume can be a bit like navigating through uncharted waters. You're transitioning from the structured world of the military to the civilian job market, and that can be a daunting task. But don't worry. I'm here to guide you through the process. We'll cover everything from translating military skills into civilian terminology to structuring the resume itself. With a few practical tips and some real-world examples, you'll be ready to create a resume that truly reflects your unique qualifications.
Translating Military Experience into Civilian Language
One of the biggest challenges when writing a military resume is translating military jargon into terms that make sense to civilian employers. Let's face it, not everyone knows what a "Logistics Specialist" or a "Commanding Officer" does on a daily basis. So, how do you make sure your experience is understood?
- Identify the Core Skills: Start by listing your responsibilities and achievements in the military. What skills did you use? Leadership, problem-solving, project management? Make a note of these.
- Find Civilian Equivalents: Next, look for civilian roles that require similar skills. For instance, a "Logistics Specialist" in the military could translate to a "Supply Chain Manager" in civilian terms.
- Use Online Resources: Websites like O*NET Online or Spell can be helpful. Just type in your military job title, and they provide civilian equivalents and job descriptions.
Interestingly enough, many employers value the discipline and leadership skills veterans bring to the table. So, while it's important to translate your experience, don't shy away from highlighting these unique attributes.
Formatting Your Military Resume
When it comes to formatting your military resume, you want to keep it clean and professional. Remember, first impressions matter! Here are a few formatting tips to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Format
There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Each has its pros and cons, and the right one for you depends on your unique background.
- Chronological: This format is great if you have a strong work history with no significant gaps. It lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, highlighting your career progression.
- Functional: Focuses on skills and experience rather than chronological work history. This format can be useful if you're transitioning to a new career field.
- Combination: As the name suggests, this format combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes. It's ideal if you have a varied skill set that you want to highlight.
Keep It Simple
Use a clean layout with clear headings and plenty of white space. Stick to one or two fonts, and avoid using bright colors or excessive graphics. Your resume should be easy to read and visually appealing.
Include Contact Information
Don’t forget to include your name, phone number, and email address at the top of the resume. If you have a LinkedIn profile or online portfolio, include those links as well.
Highlighting Your Skills and Accomplishments
Now that you've nailed down the formatting, it's time to focus on the content. Highlighting your skills and accomplishments is crucial. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
Quantify Your Achievements
Numbers speak volumes. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements to give potential employers a clear picture of your impact. For example:
"Managed a team of 10 personnel, resulting in a 20% increase in operational efficiency."
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs to convey a sense of accomplishment. Words like "led," "developed," "implemented," and "improved" can make your achievements stand out.
Focus on Transferable Skills
Think about the skills you've gained in the military that could be valuable in a civilian job. Leadership, teamwork, adaptability. These are all transferable skills that employers value highly.
Crafting a Compelling Summary or Objective
Your resume summary or objective is your chance to make a strong first impression. It should be a brief, compelling statement that highlights your strengths and career goals.
When to Use a Summary
If you have several years of experience and are looking to continue in a similar field, a summary might be the way to go. Here’s an example:
"Dedicated and results-driven logistics professional with over 10 years of experience leading teams and managing supply chain operations. Proven track record of improving efficiency and reducing costs."
When to Use an Objective
If you're transitioning to a new career field or just starting out, an objective can be more effective. Here’s how you might structure it:
"Seeking a challenging role in supply chain management where I can leverage my leadership skills and logistics expertise to contribute to operational success."
Remember, your summary or objective should be tailored to the job you're applying for. Personalize it to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
Including Education and Certifications
Education and certifications are important components of your resume, especially if they directly relate to the job you're applying for. Here’s how to present them effectively:
List Your Education
Include your degree(s), major(s), and the institution(s) you attended. If you recently graduated, include your graduation date. If it's been a while, you can leave out the date.
Highlight Relevant Certifications
Certifications can set you apart from other candidates, especially if they're specific to your field. Be sure to list any relevant certifications and the date you earned them. For example:
"Certified Logistics Professional (CLP), 2021"
If you have military-specific certifications that translate well into the civilian sector, definitely include those. Employers often appreciate candidates who have continued their education and training.
Tailoring Your Resume for Each Job Application
One-size-fits-all doesn’t work when it comes to resumes. Tailoring your resume for each job you apply to can make a big difference in catching a recruiter’s eye.
Research the Company and Role
Before applying, research the company and the specific role. What skills and experiences do they value? Use this information to tailor your resume accordingly.
Use Keywords from the Job Description
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. To pass this initial screening, incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume. This shows that you understand the role and are a good fit.
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills
Customize your resume to highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the job. If a job emphasizes teamwork, be sure to include examples of successful team projects you've led or been part of.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When crafting your military resume, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes can help you present a polished, professional image to potential employers.
Using Too Much Military Jargon
As mentioned earlier, avoid using too much military jargon. While it may be second nature to you, civilian employers may not understand terms like "MOS" or "PCS." Translate these terms into civilian language.
Submitting a Generic Resume
Sending the same resume to every job application is a common mistake. Tailor your resume for each position by highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to that specific job.
Neglecting to Proofread
Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression. Take the time to carefully proofread your resume. Better yet, ask a friend or use Spell to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Leveraging Online Tools and Resources
There are plenty of online tools and resources available to help you craft a standout military resume. Here are a few worth exploring:
Resume Builders
Online resume builders can simplify the process of creating a professional-looking resume. Many offer customizable templates and step-by-step guidance. Just be sure to choose one that allows you to fully customize your resume to suit your needs.
Spell: Your AI-Powered Writing Assistant
With Spell, you can create high-quality documents in a fraction of the time. Describe what you want to create, and Spell generates a polished first draft for you. You can then refine and edit your document using natural language prompts. It's like having a writing assistant that helps you draft, refine, and polish your resume with ease.
Military-Specific Resources
Websites like Military.com offer resume tips and examples specifically for veterans. They can provide valuable insights into how to best present your military experience to civilian employers.
Networking and Gathering Feedback
Networking can play a crucial role in your job search. Connecting with others can open doors and provide valuable feedback on your resume.
Reach Out to Veterans' Networks
Many veterans' organizations offer networking opportunities and resume workshops. Take advantage of these resources to connect with others who've successfully transitioned to civilian careers.
Ask for Feedback
Don't be afraid to ask friends, family, or colleagues for feedback on your resume. They may catch errors you missed or offer suggestions for improvement. Plus, a fresh set of eyes can provide valuable perspective.
Utilize LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool. Update your profile to reflect your military experience and connect with others in your desired field. You never know where your next opportunity might come from.
Final Thoughts
Creating a military resume might seem challenging, but with a little effort and the right approach, you can craft a resume that truly reflects your skills and experiences. Remember to translate military jargon, highlight your achievements, and tailor your resume for each job application. And if you need a hand, Spell is a great tool to help you write and refine your resume efficiently. Good luck on your job search!
