Military veterans can add value to organizations, but it's important to see beyond media hype and check your personal bias about that talent pool, said Peter A. Gudmundsson, CEO and president of Loveland, Ohio-based Recruit Military.
The military teaches character, discipline, resiliency and teamwork, and its members are highly skilled. But there are very real biases about hiring veterans, noted Gudmundsson, who served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1985-88.
However, when it comes to hiring a veteran there are many biases that exist. What do you think when you hear veteran?
"Veterans are a victim group that requires special attention."
It's important to consider that veterans have skills, years of specialized training and intangible attributes such as discipline, loyalty, resiliency and team work. They are not owed a position with your company but they come highly qualified.
"Veterans pose a security threat and safety risk because they suffer from PTSD."
15%-18% of veterans served in combat, and of those not all suffer from PTSD. Keep in mind there are individuals outside of the military that have been in abusive situations, car wrecks or other traumatic situations that can have PTSD. Recognize your bias and work on evaluating veterans for their knowledge skills and abilities.
"Translating military skills into civilian skills is a challenge."
While most military resumes seem like a foreign language littered with alphabet soup and duties that don't easily transfer. A good interview process that focuses on the core competencies of your positions and behavior questions that drill into your needs will make the translation much easier.
As HR professionals we are trained to put our biases aside and manage a fair process. However, the unknown and things we don't understand can quickly through us off our game. In recognition of our Military in the month of May, your challenge is to think about your hiring programs for veterans and bust the biases, you're sure to find a great hire that will be loyal and dedicated to you as an employer.