On one of my military-focused LinkedIn Groups, Army Veterans, someone recently posted this question, “Can anyone recommend a good military to civilian resume writing service?“
For professionals who have spent a career in the military service, it can seem like a daunting task converting military speak to corporate speak. It certainly does take time and patience. Here is my response I posted along with some how-to article links at the end I wrote.
FOUR SUGGESTIONS BEFORE HIRING A RESUME-WRITING SERVICE
- Ask to see 10 or more samples of military to civilian resumes. Make the service prove beyond a shadow of a doubt, they can turn your experience into language/messages corporate professionals understand and in the end say, “I want to meet you”
- To avoid generic language, think Q&Q. Q&Q is [Q]ualify and [Q]uantify. Look at position descriptions posted on the Internet (e.g., Dice, Monster, Ladder, etc.). Examine critically the position description (PD). What language/phrases do the PDs have? Can you identify and establish trends? If yes, consider including these words and phrases. Next do searches (e.g., Google, Bing, Yahoo) for position titles. You will be amazed what appears–full resumes from people around the world. Again, look for language/phrases you “should have” in your resume
- Do some introspective thinking to develop your own ICP – Ideal Company Profile. Culture, work habits, zip code, industry, position, opportunity for advancement, etc. This will help you create a much more focused job hunting campaign. An ICP makes it easier for everyone when you are searching for the right fit. Recruiters will ask you all of the questions anyway, friends will know what companies to make referrals into, and your time will be effectively used
- Visit the support organizations mentioned above (e.g., phone, internet, in-person for Veterans Affairs, HireourHeros.com, Armed Forces Support Network, Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP), and more)
There are a lot of companies with great ideas out there. Get different perspectives until you find the path that matches your style, personality, and goals.
CAREER-RELATED ARTICLES
- Tell Me About Yourself – How to Wow Your Interviewers
- Communications Audit – 10 Critical Communication Elements for Your Career Success
- Every Accomplishment Should Be Great: 5 Steps to Compelling Resume Accomplishments
- LinkedIn for Job Hunters: Tips to Create a Must-Read Profile
- Over 75 LinkedIn Tips for Everyone and for Job Seekers
- 18 Tips for Job Hunters, New and Experienced
- Does Your Resume’s Summary Scream? How to Write a Summary Section that Screams “Schedule an Interview with me Today!”
- The “What Do You Do?” Answer – A Key Tool in Your Sales Toolbox
- The Personal Storyteller – 3 Tips to Improve Your Communication Skills
- How to Ask for a Job Reference, No Matter Your Age or Position
Click to see all of the career-related, social media (e.g., LinkedIn), and personal branding articles.
MILITARY SERVICE CAREER-RELATED ARTICLES
Photography Source: United States Army
