As a veteran, it's important for you to recognize that civilian job interviews differ significantly from anything you experienced while in the service – even a military Promotion Board. The following tips will help you improve your chances of success.
- Civilian job interviews are more relaxed than interactions with military authority. Swap the rigid posture that is expected of soldiers for open and friendly body language. Be respectful, of course, but with a bit less formality.
- While the employer generally controls the flow of the civilian interview, it’s intended to be a two-way conversation. This means elaborating on your answers to show how you can contribute to the organization, and asking questions to determine whether it’s the right job for you.
- “Civilianize” your military occupations and their descriptions so employers can better relate to them. Were you a Watch Captain? Call yourself a Supervisor. Did you manage weapons inventory? Refer to your stock as equipment or supplies.
- Describe your military-related experience, abilities, and achievements in a way that relates to and supports your civilian career goals. When explaining job duties you performed while in the service, and the skills used in doing so, be direct and specific about their relevance to the open position. This is especially important for transferable soft skills, as the interviewer may not otherwise make the connection. In other words, focus less on the tasks themselves, and more on how you were able to complete them successfully.
- Your military experience likely instilled you with a strong sense of teamwork, which is a desirable trait that should be highlighted during your interview. It's critical, however, that you don't allow a "we" mentality prevent you from emphasizing your individual accomplishments when appropriate.
- In addition to teamwork, veterans have a reputation for numerous other important workplace skills. These include strong work ethic, respect for rules and authority, ability to perform under pressure, leadership, teamwork, problem solving, and many others. Be prepared to provide examples of how you’ve used these abilities to achieve positive results in your military occupations.
- Resist the urge to call the interviewer "Sir" or "Ma'am" repeatedly. He or she isn't your commanding officer!
- Avoid military jargon and acronyms, and don’t wear your uniform.
- Steer clear of discussing active combat. If the interviewer inquires, politely redirect the conversation to the job at hand.
For additional advice on making the transition from military to civilian employment, don’t miss our Determine Your Job Civilian Objective and Create an Effective Civilian Resume posts!
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