The limited amount of jobs in the U.S is no secret. With masters becoming the new bachelors, even four-year college graduates are finding difficulty securing a job. This post-recessionary economy is having an even deeper effect on U.S veterans. Each year 200,000 service men and women transition from the military to the civilian world, and the transition is terrifying.
Yes, military personal are familiar with the intense, high octane way of life the military presents. But that is in no way shape or form the pressure being unemployed puts on you. If there is one thing that the military gives its members, it’s job security. That is something that doesn’t really exist right now in the job market outside the military. In fact, finding a job period is extremely hard for those who just crawled out from under Uncle Sam’s fingers. But why, why is it so hard for honorably discharged military personnel to find careers after they get out. Conventional wisdom says it shouldn’t be. Former military members have developed some of the most crucial attributes needed to succeed in everyday blue collar, and even white collar, America.
While it’s easy to see why some military occupational specialties such as Counter Mortar Radar Repairer and Anti-tank Assault Guided Missilemen have a hard time finding comparable and relatable jobs outside the military, those that work in jobs such as Air Traffic Controller and Aviation Radio Repair should be able to find a relevant job when they’re discharged. However, job placement for even relevant jobs is becoming scarce for numerous reasons. Being a former military member I know that, sure, the communication is somewhat different. However, there is one thing that both military and civilians agree on and that’s results in the workplace. Name me an organization that doesn’t want someone or something that’s better, smarter, and faster. I believe any Fortune 500 company’s principles coincide with the same principles that the military holds. That is aside from that whole seeking the enemy and destroying them.
For instance, an active duty member in the military has to show up 10 minutes early to work, no exceptions. Every day, 12 hours a day, five days a week and sometimes more, they show up in a freshly pressed and starched uniform and clean boots. ‘Appearance is perception’ is the military model. Insubordination is unspeakable. There is none- and if there is, the penalty is demotion or other restrictions. Physical fitness is a must and daily, team-oriented exercises are routine. Speaking of team, your fellow military are like brothers and sisters. The team values you learn in the military would make any Fortune 500 company wish they had that kind of camaraderie. So why exactly are employers timid to hire vets? Is it really a communication barrier, or a misconception of the military and their inability to operate in the civilian world?
What do you think of this situation? Let us know in the comments or tweet me @ChrisOfficer.
IMAGE: Courtesy of the NY Times
