SFC Gary Fox 146199 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Did you know discrimination is taking place against Post 9/11 Veterans? The national Veterans unemployment rate is greater than the national unemployment rate. It's worse for those 18-24 at 12.9%.<br /><br />Recently, I had two interviews where the interviewers lacked knowledge about our Veterans. During the first interview, the interviewer state to me because I had served in Iraq and Afghanistan he believed all Veterans in those two conflicts suffer from PTSD. He also believed sufferers of PTSD. He also had many misconceptions about PTSD.<br /><br />The second interviewer said to me that all Veterans were too regimented and incapable of thinking outside the box. Those were ignorant statements as well.<br /><br />These two interviews got me thinking. If there were two employment decision makers who believed this there had to be many more across the country. My research began by posting the question on LinkedIn through Veterans' Mentors. I have received many responses from Veterans across the country who had very similar experiences.<br /><br />There are many organizations working on behalf of Veterans, but they focus on the big companies like Walmart, AT&amp;T, IBM, etc. However the largest employers in this country are the small business owners and not receiving information about the benefits of hiring Veterans. This is one reason why I think the unemployment rate of Veterans is greater than non-veterans.<br /><br />I have decided in my area to be an advocate for the hiring of Veterans. I'm encouraging local American Legion and VFW posts to hold transition training for local Veterans as well as establishing job fairs with local businesses participating. This will help educate the small business owners about the value Veterans bring to their organizations.<br /><br />There are 10 good reasons to hire Veterans.<br />1. Ability to learn new skills and concepts. While in the military, Service Members undergo rigorous training programs to become experts in a wide-range of skills and concepts that can easily be transferred to a civilian work environment. The skills Service Members have learned and applied in real-world situations in the military make them ideal candidates to enhance your organization's productivity.<br /><br />2. Strong leadership qualities. The military trains Service Members to lead by example as well as through direction, delegation, motivation and inspiration in some of the toughest situations imaginable. Service Members are not only well schooled in the academic theory of leadership; they also understand and have used practical ways to manage behaviors for results.<br /><br />3. Flexibility to work strongly in teams or work independently. Military training teaches Service Members to work as a team by instilling a sense of a responsibility to one's colleagues. In addition, the size and scope of military operations necessitates that Service Members understand how groups of all sizes relate to each other and support the overarching objective. While military duties stress teamwork and group productivity, they also build individuals who are able to perform independently at a very high level.<br /><br />4. Diversity and strong interpersonal skills. Service Members have learned to work side by side with individuals regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, economic status, and geographic origins as well as mental, physical and attitudinal capabilities. Many Service Members have also been deployed or stationed in numerous foreign countries that give them a greater appreciation for the diverse nature of our globalized economy.<br /><br />5. Ability to work efficiently and diligently in a fast-paced environment. Service Members have developed the capacity and time-management skills needed to know how to accomplish tasks correctly and on time, in spite of limited resources and immense pressure.<br /><br />6. Respect for procedures and accountability. Service Members know how policies and procedures enable an organization to be successful and they easily understand their place within an organizational framework. Service Members understand the responsibility that comes with being responsible for the actions of subordinates and they understand how to properly elevate issues through the proper supervisory channels.<br /><br />7. Hands on experience with technology and globalization. Today's military uses the cutting-edge technology to maintain our dominance over the enemy in the battlefield. From communications technology to the security of computer networks and hardware, Service Members must stay aware of emerging technologies in the public and private sector.<br /><br />8. Strong personal integrity. Military training demands that individuals not only abide by a strong Code of Ethics, but that they live it each and every day. Military personnel are often trusted with security clearances that give them access to highly sensitive information. An employee with a proven track record of trustworthiness is often an asset to an organization.<br /><br />9. Strong sense of health, safety and property standards. Service Members are aware of health and safety protocols both for themselves and the welfare of others. Individually, they represent a drug-free workforce that is cognizant of maintaining personal health and fitness. On a company level, their attentiveness and care translate into respect for employees, property and materials.<br /><br />10. Triumph over adversity. In addition to dealing positively with the typical issues of personal maturity, Service Members have frequently triumphed over great adversity. Service Members have proven their mettle in mission critical situations demanding endurance, stamina and flexibility. In the case of wounded warriors, they have overcome severe disabilities, acquired injuries (including invisible injuries) through strength, determination and personal conviction.<br /><br />As leaders in the military, we took care of our own. For those of us no longer wearing the uniform because we retired or PCS'd, we should continue to take care of each other and fight for the rights of each other. 2014-06-07T10:06:37-04:00 SFC Gary Fox 146199

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Did you know discrimination is taking place against Post 9/11 Veterans? The national Veterans unemployment rate is greater than the national unemployment rate. It's worse for those 18-24 at 12.9%.<br /><br />Recently, I had two interviews where the interviewers lacked knowledge about our Veterans. During the first interview, the interviewer state to me because I had served in Iraq and Afghanistan he believed all Veterans in those two conflicts suffer from PTSD. He also believed sufferers of PTSD. He also had many misconceptions about PTSD.<br /><br />The second interviewer said to me that all Veterans were too regimented and incapable of thinking outside the box. Those were ignorant statements as well.<br /><br />These two interviews got me thinking. If there were two employment decision makers who believed this there had to be many more across the country. My research began by posting the question on LinkedIn through Veterans' Mentors. I have received many responses from Veterans across the country who had very similar experiences.<br /><br />There are many organizations working on behalf of Veterans, but they focus on the big companies like Walmart, AT&amp;T, IBM, etc. However the largest employers in this country are the small business owners and not receiving information about the benefits of hiring Veterans. This is one reason why I think the unemployment rate of Veterans is greater than non-veterans.<br /><br />I have decided in my area to be an advocate for the hiring of Veterans. I'm encouraging local American Legion and VFW posts to hold transition training for local Veterans as well as establishing job fairs with local businesses participating. This will help educate the small business owners about the value Veterans bring to their organizations.<br /><br />There are 10 good reasons to hire Veterans.<br />1. Ability to learn new skills and concepts. While in the military, Service Members undergo rigorous training programs to become experts in a wide-range of skills and concepts that can easily be transferred to a civilian work environment. The skills Service Members have learned and applied in real-world situations in the military make them ideal candidates to enhance your organization's productivity.<br /><br />2. Strong leadership qualities. The military trains Service Members to lead by example as well as through direction, delegation, motivation and inspiration in some of the toughest situations imaginable. Service Members are not only well schooled in the academic theory of leadership; they also understand and have used practical ways to manage behaviors for results.<br /><br />3. Flexibility to work strongly in teams or work independently. Military training teaches Service Members to work as a team by instilling a sense of a responsibility to one's colleagues. In addition, the size and scope of military operations necessitates that Service Members understand how groups of all sizes relate to each other and support the overarching objective. While military duties stress teamwork and group productivity, they also build individuals who are able to perform independently at a very high level.<br /><br />4. Diversity and strong interpersonal skills. Service Members have learned to work side by side with individuals regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, economic status, and geographic origins as well as mental, physical and attitudinal capabilities. Many Service Members have also been deployed or stationed in numerous foreign countries that give them a greater appreciation for the diverse nature of our globalized economy.<br /><br />5. Ability to work efficiently and diligently in a fast-paced environment. Service Members have developed the capacity and time-management skills needed to know how to accomplish tasks correctly and on time, in spite of limited resources and immense pressure.<br /><br />6. Respect for procedures and accountability. Service Members know how policies and procedures enable an organization to be successful and they easily understand their place within an organizational framework. Service Members understand the responsibility that comes with being responsible for the actions of subordinates and they understand how to properly elevate issues through the proper supervisory channels.<br /><br />7. Hands on experience with technology and globalization. Today's military uses the cutting-edge technology to maintain our dominance over the enemy in the battlefield. From communications technology to the security of computer networks and hardware, Service Members must stay aware of emerging technologies in the public and private sector.<br /><br />8. Strong personal integrity. Military training demands that individuals not only abide by a strong Code of Ethics, but that they live it each and every day. Military personnel are often trusted with security clearances that give them access to highly sensitive information. An employee with a proven track record of trustworthiness is often an asset to an organization.<br /><br />9. Strong sense of health, safety and property standards. Service Members are aware of health and safety protocols both for themselves and the welfare of others. Individually, they represent a drug-free workforce that is cognizant of maintaining personal health and fitness. On a company level, their attentiveness and care translate into respect for employees, property and materials.<br /><br />10. Triumph over adversity. In addition to dealing positively with the typical issues of personal maturity, Service Members have frequently triumphed over great adversity. Service Members have proven their mettle in mission critical situations demanding endurance, stamina and flexibility. In the case of wounded warriors, they have overcome severe disabilities, acquired injuries (including invisible injuries) through strength, determination and personal conviction.<br /><br />As leaders in the military, we took care of our own. For those of us no longer wearing the uniform because we retired or PCS'd, we should continue to take care of each other and fight for the rights of each other.

2014-06-07T10:06:37-04:00 2014-06-07T10:06:37-04:00 SSG Joshua Locke 146383

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Man, that is horrible

2014-06-07T13:57:42-04:00 2014-06-07T13:57:42-04:00 SSG Mike Angelo 165719

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>SFC Gary, <br /><br />IMHO, there are several factors or indicators specific for a post 911 veterans, as you have described a few; medical and work ethics. <br /><br />There is also common ground of unemployment from other generations of veterans. Nationally, our veteran unemployment rate is a tad higher than the national average....Vets stand at around 13% as compared to 7-8% civilian non-veteran unemployment.<br /><br />Your plan to get American Legions and other veteran groups to hold transition sessions is a novel idea. <br /><br />As a member of the American Legion, I will look into that for my Post/District. <br /><br />In brief, the Post 911 veteran to acclimate, acculturate and transition to be a productive citizen in any given U.S mainland society will be long term recovery through appropriate intervention. This is a national disaster and should be treated as such. IMHO.

2014-06-28T07:52:19-04:00 2014-06-28T07:52:19-04:00 MSG Wade Huffman 165745

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I started a thread several months ago that indirectly identified the same situation, but linking it to (in my opinion) media attention. Thought I'd add a link here since it seems to fit. <br />Bottom line, I've noticed the same thing and so have many others. We, who are in the business of advocating for veterans, have to do a better job of educating potential employers.<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/has-increased-media-attention-on-mental-health-helped-or-harmed-our-service-members-and-veterans">https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/has-increased-media-attention-on-mental-health-helped-or-harmed-our-service-members-and-veterans</a> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-default"> <div class="pta-link-card-picture"> <img src="https://d26horl2n8pviu.cloudfront.net/link_data_pictures/images/000/001/258/qrc/fb_share_logo.png?1443019057"> </div> <div class="pta-link-card-content"> <p class="pta-link-card-title"> <a target="blank" href="https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/has-increased-media-attention-on-mental-health-helped-or-harmed-our-service-members-and-veterans">Has increased media attention on Mental Health helped, or harmed our Service Members and...</a> </p> <p class="pta-link-card-description">&amp;nbsp;The past few years have been filled with calls for the Service Branches and the VA to do more in identifying and treating mental health conditions to include, but not limited to PTSD.&amp;nbsp; While I think we can all agree wholeheartedly that this was needed; and that these conditions cross all demographics (to include rank), do any of you feel that this increased attention has created a barrier to employment (or any other effect) for...</p> </div> <div class="clearfix"></div> </div>

2014-06-28T09:05:58-04:00 2014-06-28T09:05:58-04:00 MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca 165836

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Excellent! thank you so much for what you are doing SFC Fox!!

2014-06-28T11:12:44-04:00 2014-06-28T11:12:44-04:00 TSgt Scott Hurley 165896

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I read an article about this same subject on Yahoo a few months ago. And I am having a hard time getting a job even after retiring from the military 2 1/2 years ago. Its ridiculous that HR's think they know more about vets than the vets themselves. Even when the company says that they are military friendly.

2014-06-28T12:25:51-04:00 2014-06-28T12:25:51-04:00 LTC Donald (Don) Bachler 166525

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I retired a little over two years ago, and have applied to over 400 positions. I have yet to make it to an interview. I have a master's degree, current TS-SCI clearance, etc. I am not certain if it's an age or a veteran issue, or if it is not cracking the code on the online application disaster that we must all suffer through. The online process is a black hole that provides no feedback in which to adjust fire. I realize I must start over at the bottom, but no company appears willing to give me a shot.

2014-06-29T00:56:59-04:00 2014-06-29T00:56:59-04:00 SGT Tim S. 168193

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This is a major issue within the US workforce and application process. Thank you SFC Fox for bringing this information to light and to our attention.

2014-07-01T03:48:42-04:00 2014-07-01T03:48:42-04:00 SSG Private RallyPoint Member 169408

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This is what I am facing right now, all good interviews but no job offer. One interviewer couldn't believe I wanted to start another career. So being a delivery driver for Barro's Pizza is looking pretty good.

2014-07-02T14:43:03-04:00 2014-07-02T14:43:03-04:00 MAJ Hans Kirkman 169585

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Excellent information and good list to review and know for reasons to hire a vet. I would add two more: 11) there are financial benefits for companies that hire veterans for up to six years...tax breaks and 12) Lower turnover of veterans 23% turnover of civilian but only 13% turnover for veterans.

2014-07-02T19:04:14-04:00 2014-07-02T19:04:14-04:00 SSG Todd Halverson 171378

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I am actually part of a program through the VA called the STAR program. I have a a case worker that helps me look for full time employment by going outer and talking to potential employers. Once I apply for a position she lets the potential employer know and then we see what happens. The problem is she is told by employers have him apply and let us know because we are always looking to hire Vets. It seems that most companies, even the small companies, are a lot of talk with very little action.

2014-07-05T15:40:53-04:00 2014-07-05T15:40:53-04:00 1LT Shawn McCarthy 192831

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Random thoughts and observations on the matter:<br /><br />While searching for jobs a few years ago, while still in the National Guard, I was told by a job recruiter that unless I severed all ties to the military, no one would take me. His explanation; no one wants to train someone for a difficult position and then have to watch them leave for deployment and fill that spot with someone else, all while having to hold the spot for the service member when he returns. <br /><br />My current company had a hiring initiative through Bradley- Morris where they planned on bringing in several former officers to work as supervisors. However, they made no effort to help those former officers assimilate to the culture of the company, so many floundered. This resulted in a knee-jerk reaction to halt JMO hiring because of misconceptions caused by veterans who were put in difficult situations with, many times with no private sector experience and not given any mentoring. <br /><br />I found a job through Bradley Morris and find that recruiting companies that specialize in veterans can be a huge benefit to some job seekers since they have already sold the companies on the idea of hiring a veteran. They aren't perfect, but they can help. <br /><br />That is all. <br />Carry on.

2014-08-02T21:39:09-04:00 2014-08-02T21:39:09-04:00 SSG Mike Angelo 195423

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>SFC Gary, <br /><br />You said a lot in your posting about the character of veterans. In the private sector, and I am talking about medium size corporate organizations. The train of thought is ....<br /><br />"What can you do for me?"...<br /><br /> is the question presented by a CEO or VP executive to the veteran either directly or indirectly using HR or other hiring practices. <br /><br />The answer given by the veteran goes something like this....<br /><br />"I would rather die on my feet than live on my knees..." (George Washington, n.d).<br /><br />My point is that veterans are conditioned for service on a grander scale than meeting the service needs of one person who owns the company.<br /><br />Change has to come from both sides, that is...The organizational culture on the civilian side should come out and get off the "me" world. <br /><br />The veteran's swagger needs to be toned down so this behavior can be socially understood and be accepted. <br /><br />Me world versus swagger=conflicting values and high unemployment probability<br /><br />This goes true the other way in which veteran owned business tend to behave differently toward their civilian-type employees and other stakeholders. <br /><br />These are my observations.

2014-08-06T02:47:05-04:00 2014-08-06T02:47:05-04:00 Sgt Todd Hinkle 195427

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I hear you guys. Luckily I was able to find a position that suits me very well one of which I am able to utilize many of the leadership qualities I received in the Marines. However, along the way I did have one interviewer tell me that since I had spent my entire adult life up to that point in the military I had no "real life experience." To which I replied, doing the exact same job with rockets and mortars going off around you is far more REAL than doing it while sitting in a nice comfy climate controlled building. <br /><br />Stay in the fight guys, I know it's hard. I searched for 2 years but they're out there. I highly recommend using your military connections. It's a brotherhood after all. If you're in the Dallas, TX area I'm more than happy to help you out if I'm able. Semper Fi

2014-08-06T03:25:48-04:00 2014-08-06T03:25:48-04:00 LTC Donald (Don) Bachler 310250

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>All very true, but no company wants to hire a 48-year-old disabled veteran. No matter what skills, degrees and credentials I bring to the table, they want somebody younger.

2014-11-04T12:38:54-05:00 2014-11-04T12:38:54-05:00 Cathy Suarez 1252527

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>We actively recruit veterans exactly because of the reasons you list. I am so sorry you have experienced what sounds to me like blatant unprofessionalism in the interview process. I'm seeing comments like these in many forums and it's disappointing. Here's a link to more information on career opportunities with my company visit <a target="_blank" href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/careers/about-our-fr-career-for-military-vets">https://www.northwesternmutual.com/careers/about-our-fr-career-for-military-vets</a> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-default"> <div class="pta-link-card-picture"> <img src="https://d26horl2n8pviu.cloudfront.net/link_data_pictures/images/000/038/159/qrc/ready-for-a-career-with-purpose.jpg?1453485273"> </div> <div class="pta-link-card-content"> <p class="pta-link-card-title"> <a target="blank" href="https://www.northwesternmutual.com/careers/about-our-fr-career-for-military-vets">Financial Representative Career for Military Veterans | Northwestern Mutual</a> </p> <p class="pta-link-card-description">In the armed forces you had a job where you made a difference. A job that mattered. And you had the dedication and commitment to do that job successfully. At Northwestern Mutual, you have the opportunity to continue the commitment you&#39;ve made to helping people by helping them achieve financial security.</p> </div> <div class="clearfix"></div> </div>

2016-01-22T12:54:51-05:00 2016-01-22T12:54:51-05:00 SSG Trevor S. 1618646

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think you are hinting into cracking the egg, even if you don't realize it. Veterans are extremely adaptable, they just need the opportunity to gain exposure to the civilian workplace. Many concentrate on transitioning the Veteran. Hardly anyone works on acclimatizing the workplace to Veterans. There needs to be a two way cultural training to help each party understand the best way to envelop Veterans as an asset. Think of it this way. Would a company perform an equipment transition without training on the new equipment? No, there would be an obvious drop in productivity while employees self trained like a fish out of water. Why would we expect a company to on-board a Veteran without an orientation into how a Veteran will best be utilized?

2016-06-11T01:38:19-04:00 2016-06-11T01:38:19-04:00 2014-06-07T10:06:37-04:00