What's your experience finding employment? What do you wish employers understood about veterans?

Don't be afraid of the military or veterans... We all know teamwork, discipline, integrity, hard work, loyalty, and we want to win.

SN Vivien Roman-Hampton When I was discharged in June, 1972, I interviewed along with 100 others for two operator jobs at a chemical plant. I was hired along with someone that had a college degree. I was hired because I was prepared by doing my homework on the company and having a well written resume. I also did well on the tests they had me take. I interviewed with three managers, and one manager did not like the military or veterans. I stayed calm and answered his questions.

When I obtained my degree, I went to work on the Space Shuttle program. Again, I did my homework on the program, had on a nice suit, excellent resume, and did very well on the interviews. I retired when the program ended. The key is to research the company, prepare your resume, and be ready for the interviews, i.e. "Tell me about yourself", "What value can you bring to our company," etc. Planning and preparation take time, but how bad do you want the job when there are other qualified applicants.

I'm just glad the media has stopped portraying the lie the every Vet has PTSD and can explode at any time, that made it more difficult for all of us to find jobs!