Positive Outcomes of Military Service
Numerous positive outcomes result from military service. As an employer, you can benefit from the training and experience a Veteran brings to the workforce.
Military personnel and Veterans have been vetted by their training. All members of the military complete basic training, which is designed to "break an individual down" and then train them back up. Basic training varies by branch, but includes intense physical training, academic and skills training, and socialization into that branch's culture. When you hire a Veteran or member of the military, the training you supply is built on top of a foundation that has already been set in the military. Military service instills strong values, selfless service, and loyalty – desirable attributes in an employee.
Military service results in the acquisition of a number of skills, training, and experiences that would be beneficial to any company or agency. Below is a selected list of positive outcomes of military service that Veterans bring to the workforce.
Military service teaches and cultivates leadership skills. Individuals learn to:
- Take responsibility for self and actions
- Make sound and timely decisions
- Set the example
- Understand and accomplish assigned tasks
- Be dependable
- Cultivate abilities to meet a variety of challenges
- Be disciplined
Military service affords individuals access to education and training, resulting in:
- Technical and tactical proficiency in a variety of skills
- Technical education for a specific military occupational specialty
Military service can result in personal growth and positive emotional experiences, such as:
- Enhanced maturity
- Self-improvement
- Knowing oneself better (e.g., strengths, capabilities, areas for improvement)
- Strengthening of resiliency
- Positive transformations following trauma or situations of extreme stress
- Improved coping skills
- Pride (e.g., in self, unit)
Military service enhances interpersonal skills and relationships, such as:
- Creating camaraderie and deep friendships
- Interpersonal maturation
- Working well in teams and understanding the importance of cooperation
- Looking out for the welfare of the team