National Hire a Veteran Day is celebrated each year on July 25 in the U.S. This year, Kristi Corbett, Director, Talent Acquisition at Blue Yonder and a member of the Associate Resource Group (ARG) Veterans of Blue Yonder, shares her insights into what strengths veterans bring to your company.
As a Veteran of the U.S. Navy and as a Recruiting Leader, National Hire a Veteran Day holds a very special place in my heart. While it has been a very long time since I left the service, I vividly remember the feeling of “What now?” Separating from the service can leave you very hopeful for the future but also feeling a bit rudderless in your journey forward.
In my case, I served as a linguist with a Top Secret/Secret Compartmented Information clearance. I did not have a desire to go to work for the National Security Administration (NSA) and did not know what my options could be. I had done great work while in but how does that translate to future roles within the private sector. I was fortunate to have been provided an opportunity to use my language skills doing translation work for a recruiting firm. This was the opportunity I needed to launch my career in Talent Acquisition.
All it takes is a single opportunity to change the lives of our veteran population that have already given and sacrificed so much for us.
In the journey towards building a diverse and talented workforce, businesses have started to recognize the exceptional value that veterans bring to the table. With a wealth of skills, dedication and discipline honed through their service, U.S. military veterans have become highly sought-after assets for employers across various industries.
I’d like to delve into the numerous advantages of hiring veterans, shedding light on how their unique qualities can propel organizations towards success while also serving as a gesture of gratitude for their service to the nation.
Leadership and Teamwork: You may have heard the old adage, “There is no ‘I’ in TEAM.” The military instills a profound sense of leadership and teamwork in its servicemembers. Veterans are adept at working effectively within hierarchical structures, managing teams, and taking charge in high-pressure situations. This valuable experience allows them to seamlessly integrate into corporate environments, becoming exemplary team players and inspiring leaders.
Adaptability and Resilience: Having faced numerous challenges and unpredictable circumstances during their service, veterans possess remarkable adaptability and resilience. They are equipped to tackle adversity head-on and thrive in dynamic, fast-paced work settings. Such qualities enable them to navigate the ever-changing business landscape and remain steadfast in the face of challenges, ultimately contributing to a company’s growth and stability.
Strong Work Ethic: Dedication and a strong work ethic are ingrained in military culture, and veterans embody these traits throughout their civilian careers. Their commitment to excellence, discipline and timeliness make them reliable and trustworthy employees. By hiring veterans, companies can foster a culture of diligence and drive, setting the stage for increased productivity and overall success.
Technical and Specialized Skills: The U.S. military invests significantly in training its personnel, equipping them with a wide range of technical and specialized skills. From IT and engineering to logistics and health care, veterans often possess expertise in various fields, making them an invaluable asset to companies seeking specific skill sets. Employers can leverage this expertise to bolster their organizations’ capabilities and foster innovation.
Diversity and Inclusivity: Diversity and inclusivity are cornerstones of a thriving workplace. Hiring veterans not only enriches a company’s talent pool but also contributes to a diverse work environment. Veterans come from different backgrounds, experiences and cultures, adding unique perspectives and ideas to the mix. Embracing this diversity cultivates creativity and helps businesses better understand and serve a broader customer base.
Resourceful Problem Solvers: Military veterans are trained to think critically and make decisions under pressure. These problem-solving skills are highly transferable to the corporate world, where timely and effective decision-making can be critical. By hiring veterans, organizations gain access to individuals who can analyze complex situations and devise innovative solutions, helping them stay ahead of the competition.
Incorporating veterans into the civilian workforce is a win-win situation for both employers and veterans themselves. Their exceptional leadership, teamwork, adaptability, technical skills, and strong work ethic make them valuable assets to any organization. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, we can create a culture of innovation and collaboration that leads to sustained growth and success. In addition, hiring veterans is a powerful way to show appreciation for their service and sacrifice, making it a meaningful step towards building a more grateful and supportive society.
As businesses continue to recognize the benefits of hiring veterans, they pave the way for a brighter future, strengthened by the valor and value these remarkable individuals bring to the table.
For career opportunities at Blue Yonder, visit careers.blueyonder.com.
