Top 5 tips for veterans building out their resume

2020-04-06T13:19:35-04:00

One of the toughest things I have found when working with Transitioning Veterans is getting them to brag about themselves. I like to say that humility is my favorite trait in a human being… except when they are dealing with their resume.

Humility and putting others before self is a fantastic trait that is deeply embedded in those that have served. With this, I have found it challenging to get Veterans to brag about themselves. Your resume is a snapshot of what you are most proud of in your professional life.
Disclaimer: This is my opinion and not absolute gospel. Consider getting other opinions as you are preparing your civilian resume, but here is my 2 cents:

1. Get it out of your head that your resume needs to be just one page. It is unrealistic for most that have 5+ years of any kind of experience, to fit everything they have done on one page. Now, if it all fits on one page that is fine. However, if you find yourself trying to squeeze everything on one page… I promise that the second page will not keep you from landing the job.

2. Think of everything you have done in terms of years, dollars and overall numbers. How many people have you supervised? How many million dollar items have you managed or budgeted? How long have you done what you have done? Consider bringing these up to the top of your resume in a sort of “Career Highlights” section. Numbers jump off a resume to a recruiter.

3. If you have a degree, list that high on the resume. If one of the first knockout qualifications is having a degree, make sure that is early in the resume and visible.

4. Remember, you have about 5-10 seconds to get into the “call pile.” In addition, many companies will have Artificial Intelligence reading resumes, so be thinking key words and an even bigger focus on years, dollars and numbers. Make sure that AI is catching your resume! After you complete your resume, give it a ten second glance and try to objectively ask yourself if you think your experience would catch their attention.

5. Think of putting your resume together with these four questions:

a. What are you most proud of in your career
b. Tell the recruiter what you want them to know about you!
c. What makes you, you?
d. What separates you?

Lastly, do not worry so much about a professional statement at the top or a summary. Just get right into your career highlights, education or professional experience. We have small attention spans… just go right into the meat of your resume.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2020 1:25 PM

2020-04-06T13:25:28-04:00

Great advice!

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Apr 6 at 2020 2:43 PM

2020-04-06T14:43:54-04:00

This is great stuff, Lucas Buck. You nailed it about veterans bragging about themselves. We just don't do it well and we need folks like you to shoot us straight on how to go about it tactfully on a resume. I remember having this same conversation with TSgt Grant Kohler a few years ago as he entered the healthcare world after being a CE pro in the USAF. Btw - He's THE most humble guy in the universe.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 7 at 2020 7:46 PM

2020-04-07T19:46:53-04:00

You will also have the opportunity to work on your resume at the transition point. In fact I would recommend starting that process early to beat the rush. Also, if you go to job fairs for veterans, take copies of your resume and be confident. It would probably be a good idea to virtually memorize your resume so you can speak with authority. I have heard of veterans being hired on the spot. Confidence is sexy. Good luck!

Response by Cpl Eric Day made Apr 12 at 2020 1:47 PM

2020-04-12T13:47:14-04:00

step one, get off your ass solider

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Apr 13 at 2020 11:31 AM

2020-04-13T11:31:59-04:00

Make it as quantifiable as possible

Response by Jack Powell made Apr 17 at 2020 7:46 PM

2020-04-17T19:46:18-04:00

madeintheusabyveterans.com is trying to help the Veterans, but needs a Veteran partner

Response by SR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2021 4:41 AM

2021-11-11T04:41:15-05:00

The best advice for writing a resume! Being an experienced resume writer at https://www.cvwritings.co.uk/resume-writing , I have found many military people having issues in writing their resume and cover letter.

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Response by Sarah Ali made Dec 16 at 2022 1:18 AM

2022-12-16T01:18:00-05:00

Don’t Make These Common Mistakes When You Write Your Resume Objectives

If you are a fresh graduate and seeking jobs, you have to keep your resume up to the mark. There are some tactics for a good resume. A good resume must contain good career objectives. When you are freshly graduated, this particular section holds a great significance in your resume. So here we will give you some ideas to make your resume objectives top-notch.
What is a Resume Objective?

A resume objective is usually written at the top part of a resume that demonstrates your career goals and highlights why you are applying for that job. It is written when you are a new job seeker, or you want to switch your career path and you do not have any prior experience in that particular field.

Read more: https://careerbands.com/dont-make-these-common-mistakes-when-you-write-your-resume-objectives/

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Response by Dinah Halpert made Aug 28 at 2023 1:47 PM

2023-08-28T13:47:37-04:00

For veterans transitioning to civilian careers, building a resume requires a strategic approach. Highlight transferable skills gained during service, focusing on leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Tailor your resume to the industry you're targeting, emphasizing relevant certifications and training. Incorporate specific achievements and quantify results whenever possible. When in Vancouver, consider https://resumefaster.com/vancouver-resume-writing/ to ensure your resume effectively communicates your skills and experiences, bridging the gap between military and civilian roles. A well-crafted resume can showcase your strengths and make a strong impression on potential employers.

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