PreVeteran’s Post

The narrative around veterans transitioning to civilian employment often glosses over a harsh reality: the skills and attributes honed in the crucible of military service, while invaluable, often clash with societal and workplace norms. This dissonance is not merely a matter of misunderstanding or misalignment; it is symptomatic of a deeper societal failure to truly comprehend and integrate the veteran experience into our collective fabric. In a stark departure from the era following World War II, when military service was a widespread and unifying experience, today's veterans find themselves as outliers in a society that has drifted far from the ethos of shared service and sacrifice. Veterans are sculpted by an environment that values direct communication, decisive action, and a unique form of camaraderie born out of shared purpose and adversity. These qualities, which are indispensable in the theater of war and military life, often translate poorly into civilian employment contexts, where indirectness, prolonged deliberation, and a focus on individual rather than team success prevail. The directness and genuine nature that the military instills are seen as assets within the ranks but can be misinterpreted as abrasiveness or insensitivity in a civilian context. This stark dichotomy leaves many veterans feeling alienated, unable to leverage their most profound strengths because the civilian world, it seems, does not truly value or understand them. This issue is compounded by a glaring gap in societal appreciation and understanding of military service. As fewer individuals serve, the civilian population's capacity to empathize with and appreciate the veteran experience diminishes. This lack of shared understanding has profound implications, not just for veterans seeking to find their place in civilian society, but for the society itself, which unknowingly sidelines a wealth of leadership, resilience, and integrity. The challenge of veteran employment is emblematic of a broader societal oversight: a failure to recognize that by shaping individuals for military service, we are also, inadvertently, setting them up for challenges in reintegration. The systems in place to facilitate this transition often fall short, treated as mere procedural formalities rather than genuine opportunities for transformation and preparation for civilian life. The issue at hand is not just about employment or job satisfaction—it's about how we, as a society, fail to fully embrace and integrate those who have borne the weight of our collective security on their shoulders. The veteran's transition to civilian life should not be a solitary journey marked by adaptation to a society that does not fully appreciate them. Instead, it should be a societal movement towards greater inclusivity, understanding, and genuine appreciation of the values and experiences veterans bring to the table.

Veterans' unemployment hits record low at 3% in February, beating non-veterans at 3.6%. Despite this, job satisfaction among vets remains low. Despite this, job satisfaction remains a concern. Veterans are 5x more likely to report dissatisfaction. 22% feel underemployed. Govt. & nonprofits are stepping up to connect vets with fulfilling careers. The focus now? Helping vets find fulfilling careers. Manage expectations and explore preferences for a better fit. https://lnkd.in/gNk2Zky5 #VeteransEmployment #NVMM

-The Employment Navigator and Partnership Program is a new effort to provide “one-on-one career assistance to interested transitioning service members, and their spouses, at select military installations worldwide,” according to the Labor Department.  Hoover says there is no “one size fits all” regarding career transitions for veterans. While changing career paths is difficult in any case, veterans face unique challenges. #VeteranCareerTransition #JobSatisfactionAfterService #MilitaryTransitionChallenges https://lnkd.in/ekyyGfUj

This is an interesting article for anyone who has hired a Veteran before and didn't get the outcome they were hoping for. The article highlights that employment is only half the battle for America's veterans. Here are some key takeaways: - Create a meaningful connection with the veteran to build trust and establish a positive working relationship. - Provide opportunities for growth to help the veteran feel valued and invested in their work. - Recognize and appreciate their contributions to the team and the company to boost morale and motivation. - Support their well-being by providing resources for mental and physical health. Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eNYbzyFP

As my journey in the military comes to a close, I stand at a crossroads, facing the vast and uncertain world of civilian life. The transition from military to civilian life is an experience filled with mixed emotions – excitement for the new opportunities ahead, yet apprehension about the unknown. The Department of Defense recently stated that service members are better prepared for their transition to civilian life today than any other time in history. While this may be true, especially considering we have access to more transition services than ever before, one of the biggest challenges for me is figuring out what to do next. The military lifestyle, with its structured environment and clear hierarchy, is quite different from the civilian world, where paths are diverse and less defined. This freedom of choice, while liberating, can also be daunting. I'm taking this time to self-reflect, reassess my skills, and explore my passions that were put on hold. It's a journey of self-discovery, where I'm learning to translate my military skills into civilian terms and finding out how they align with various career paths. Another challenge is adapting to a new lifestyle and culture. The camaraderie and brotherhood of the military are unique, and finding a similar sense of community in the civilian world takes time and effort. As I navigate through this transition, I'm reminded that change, although challenging, is also an opportunity for growth and new experiences. I'm excited to explore the possibilities that lie ahead and to build a fulfilling post-military career. For those who have walked this path, I welcome your advice and stories of transition. And for those about to embark on this journey, remember, you're not alone. #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #NewBeginnings #LifeAfterMilitary #CareerChange #PersonalGrowth

Military spouse employment is a great example of how we have to address issues at various levels, including the individual and the systemic. Careers encompass our work, learning and leisure activities. Everyone has a career and everyone's career is different. Individual career development support enables people to discover and understand their needs, values, interests and skills and the world of work, and how to use this information to make good career decisions. But our careers don't happen in isolation – far from it! The context in which individuals make career decisions matters very much. And for military spouses that context includes frequent moves (with little say in when and where), high caregiving loads and a career that may take a back seat to the serving member’s – all of which can cause issues with finding and sustaining good quality, meaningful employment. Military spouses can factor in the known and foreseeable challenges and opportunities associated with military life in their career decision making. At the same time, it's essential that barriers to meaningful and sustainable employment are removed wherever possible. Investing in a comprehensive career support ecosystem that tackles the issues at all levels and involves all stakeholders is essential.This isn't just important for spouses themselves (although there is a large and obvious financial and wellbeing benefit) but also to their families, the military, the communities in which they live, the economy and national security. #defencefamilies #militaryspouseemployment #unlockpotential #careerdevelopment

One of the biggest struggle for military families is maintaining 2 incomes, 22% unemployed rates for military spouses. Does your company allow work from home? We are heading into a decade of fewer potential employees in the job market, you need to be flexible to fill those roles. There is an opportunity to market jobs to military spouses, just takes understanding of their needs.

We Need Comprehensive Support for Every Servicemember! As we focus on our heroes, let's delve into some stark realities that demand our attention and action: 🔹 Veterans who have tragically died by suicide since 2001: Approx. 139,000 🔹 Total Veterans leaving the military since 2001: Approximately 3,750,000 🔹 The total number of Homeless Veterans in our country is Approx. 35,574: Breaking this down further, 20,067 Veterans experienced sheltered homelessness, and 15,507 Veterans experienced unsheltered homelessness. 🔹More than Approx. 200,000 are incarcerated. #DidYouKnow 🔹 The average service enlistment contract is 6.2 years, with only 10% of Servicemembers retiring 🎗️ Meaning, only 1 in 10 Veterans we encounter is a retiree. ▶️ We hear quite frequently, time frames upon when a Servicemember should begin to plan for transition. 2 years out. 10 years out. 5 years out. ⁉️ 💡 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 10% 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 90 % 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 6.2 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬, 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐰𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤.  👉So, what does all this mean? How can we use these numbers to develop a plan to help our Servicemembers? These figures underscore the critical need for a comprehensive plan that supports all Servicemembers, THE 90%, not just the 10% who complete 20+ years. Here's how we can help All Servicemembers upon transition. 🎓 Education Service Officers (ESOs): Strengthening ESOs is essential to guide Veterans towards tailored educational opportunities, ensuring a smooth and successful transition. We must recognize ESOs have a vital role in preparing Service Members for civilian life. They must ask tough questions, and continue fostering an environment that encourages education and transition planning. 💼 Financial Well-being: Education is the key to financial stability. It equips Veterans, including those with shorter enlistment periods, with the skills needed for successful careers in the civilian world. 🤝 Social Adjustment: Regardless of the length of service, transitioning to civilian life can be challenging. Educational programs provide a bridge, fostering connections and easing the adjustment process. 🌟 Physical and Mental Health Resources: Education isn't just about degrees; it's a holistic investment in well-being. Comprehensive support contributes to the overall health and resilience of our veteran community. When we transition, titles, former positions and what we’ve done in our careers in the military are important however, WE ARE ALL Veterans and our men and women who choose not to retire need our help and attention. Thoughts? 🤲 As always, Its about God. It’s about Familiy. It’s about You! #SupportOurVeterans #ComprehensiveTransition #EducationForAll #AllVeterans American Freedom Foundation U.S. Army Soldier For Life Tyrone Teresa Your Next Mission® Ted Jim Paul Paul Allen James Kristin Walt BG(Ret) Gordon Michelle Donnell Dr.

Whether you've served 2 years or 30, transitioning from military to civilian life is a time of uncertainty and stress for most Veterans. Being proactive and taking charge of your transition can reduce the anxiety. Below are a few things to consider as your time in service draws to a close. 1. Plan early - having a plan reduces stress! To assist in planning visit https://lnkd.in/et5Zjb7h 2. Take advantage of the Transition Assistance Program - to learn more visit https://lnkd.in/eGKhHk3Z. 3. Enroll in VA health care by visiting https://lnkd.in/eAP6MVrk 4. Connect with the state Department of Veteran Affairs where you plan to settle down after the military - to find contact information, visit https://lnkd.in/e2QAHtYP As you prepare for civilian life, know that your military experience is valued by your fellow citizens and by many companies looking for quality applicants. So whether heading back to school, directly into the work force, or some other plan - take charge of YOUR transition!