Military Resume Writing: Transitioning from Service to Civilian Careers

High & Resume | Editorial Team
Nov 11, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Dec 5, 2024

The transition from military service to civilian employment is a significant step, and crafting an effective military resume is essential to making that shift. Your military experience has provided you with a vast array of skills that are highly valuable in the civilian workforce, but it’s crucial to present them in a way that resonates with hiring managers in the private sector.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how to craft a compelling military resume that not only showcases your military accomplishments but also highlights the transferable skills you can bring to civilian roles. Whether you're transitioning into a corporate environment, government work, or a nonprofit organization, these tips will help ensure your resume stands out.

1. Begin with a Strong Resume Summary

Your resume summary is your first opportunity to grab the attention of hiring managers, and it should provide a snapshot of your military experience, leadership skills, and the value you bring to the table. A well-crafted summary can set the tone for the rest of your resume.

For example:“Accomplished U.S. Army Sergeant with 8 years of experience leading teams in high-pressure environments. Proven ability to manage logistics, oversee operations, and drive results in fast-paced settings. Adept at problem-solving, decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration.”

Your summary should convey your leadership abilities, adaptability, and specific skills that can be applied to civilian roles. Remember, hiring managers are looking for candidates who can seamlessly transition their skills into a corporate setting.

2. Translate Military Experience into Civilian Terms

One of the most significant challenges veterans face when writing a military resume is translating military jargon into civilian terms. To make your experience accessible to recruiters who may not be familiar with military roles, focus on using clear, concise language and emphasize the results of your actions.

For example, instead of saying “Platoon Leader for logistics operations,” you could say:“Managed logistics operations for a team of 15, ensuring timely delivery and execution of supplies, resulting in a 20% improvement in operational efficiency.”

By emphasizing achievements and their impact, you allow employers to see the direct value of your military experience in terms they can understand.

3. Highlight Transferable Skills

Military service provides a wealth of skills that are highly transferable to civilian jobs, such as leadership, teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving. Be sure to emphasize these transferable skills in your military resume.

Some examples of transferable skills for veterans include:

Leadership & Team Management: Leading teams in challenging environments, overseeing operations, and ensuring mission success.
Project Management: Planning, coordinating, and executing large-scale projects under tight deadlines.
Problem-Solving: Quickly assessing situations and making informed decisions in high-stress scenarios.
Communication: Interacting with various teams, presenting reports, and providing clear directives.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in operating machinery, managing IT systems, or technical troubleshooting (depending on your military specialty).

Make sure to align these skills with the requirements of the civilian job you’re applying for. If the job calls for leadership or project management, focus on those aspects of your military career.

4. Include Relevant Military Awards and Honors

If you’ve received any military awards, medals, or honors, it’s important to highlight them in your resume. These accolades can demonstrate your dedication, discipline, and ability to exceed expectations, all qualities that employers look for in their candidates.

For example:

Army Commendation Medal for outstanding leadership and service.
Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional performance during deployment.

Including these awards will not only add credibility to your resume but also show hiring managers that you’ve been recognized for your hard work and achievements.

5. Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Just like any other job seeker, veterans should tailor their military resumes to the specific job they are applying for. Carefully read the job description and focus on the skills and experience that match the employer’s needs.

For example, if you’re applying for a project management role, highlight any experience you have in overseeing operations, coordinating teams, and managing timelines. If the job is in IT or cybersecurity, emphasize your technical skills, training, and experience with military technology systems.

By tailoring your resume to each job, you increase your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)and catching the attention of recruiters.

6. Leverage Additional Sections to Showcase Your Value

Veterans often have valuable experience outside of their military duties that can further enhance their resumes. Consider adding additional sections that highlight your broader qualifications, such as:

Volunteer Work: Many veterans participate in community or veteran organizations. Highlight this experience to show your commitment to giving back.
Certifications & Training: If you’ve completed any relevant certifications (such as Project Management Professional (PMP), IT certifications, etc.), include them.
Education: Mention any degrees, diplomas, or continuing education courses you’ve completed.

Including these sections will give employers a more well-rounded view of your qualifications and demonstrate your initiative and dedication to professional development.

7. Formatting Tips for Your Military Resume

A clean, easy-to-read layout is crucial when crafting your military resume. Here are some formatting tips:

Font: Use professional fonts like Arial or Calibri in 10–12 point size.
Headings: Make sure each section (Summary, Experience, Education, Skills) is clearly labeled.
Bullet Points: Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements, making it easier for recruiters to skim your resume.
Keep It Concise: Aim for a resume length of 1-2 pages. Focus on your most relevant experience and skills.

Final Thoughts on Military Resume Writing

Transitioning to civilian employment may seem daunting, but with the right military resume, you can successfully showcase your valuable skills and experience. By translating military terminology into civilian language, highlighting your transferable skills, and tailoring your resume to each job, you can increase your chances of landing a job that aligns with your career goals.

If you’re unsure about crafting your military resume or need assistance making the transition, consider working with a resume writing service that specializes in military-to-civilian transitions. These services can help you present your qualifications in the best light possible, ensuring your resume stands out in a competitive job market.

At High & Resume, we’re committed to providing you with a resume that helps you stand out from the crowd. Whether you need a professional resume, a fully optimized resume, a cover letter, or LinkedIn Profile Optimization, we offer various services to meet your needs.

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