Sixty percent of small to mid-sized business (SMB) CEOs and Presidents report that they are open to hiring military veterans, while only 16 percent have specific programs that encourage employing veterans. These statistics are both encouraging and daunting for hiring managers – in fact, this insight proves valuable as many HR executives seek to further cultivate a strong relationship between the military and the transition into corporate America. The vast disconnect between companies that currently have specific hiring programs and those that would consider employing veterans lends to our understanding that challenges are ripe for recruiting military talent. However, hiring skilled military leaders can greatly enhance the performance of a company, and these opportunities should not go unnoticed.

1. EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS - BLOG
www.careeradvice.lucasgroup.com
Do You Have Plans To Hire A Military Hero?
by
Josh Meier
Senior Partner – Military Transition Division
Sixty percent of small to mid-sized business (SMB) CEOs and Presidents report that they are open to hiring military veterans, while
only 16 percent have specific programs that encourage employing veterans.
These statistics are both encouraging and daunting for hiring managers – in fact, this insight proves valuable as many HR
executives seek to further cultivate a strong relationship between the military and the transition into corporate America. The vast
disconnect between companies that currently have specific hiring programs and those that would consider employing veterans lends
to our understanding that challenges are ripe for recruiting military talent. However, hiring skilled military leaders can greatly
enhance the performance of a company, and these opportunities should not go unnoticed.
As an executive recruiter in the Military Transition division, I have worked firsthand with HR executives to overcome the challenge of
translating military skills to civilian job experience, and have developed sound practices to facilitate the communication between
hiring companies and military heroes who will ultimately improve the bottom line. Following years of hearing many of the same
challenges, listed below are the top three ways for companies to facilitate the process of veterans transitioning into civilian careers
and safeguard the longevity of each hire.
Translate Skills during the Transition Process – Military officers demonstrate unparalleled drive, purpose and work ethic. They
manage change well, and are trained and accomplished at managing assorted teams and various skill-sets. Embracing veterans’
discipline, loyalty and leadership goes unmatched, and can be a valuable asset to your business. It is through the understanding and
translation of these skills, both technical and interpersonal, that ultimately renders a successful hire.
Develop On-Boarding and Training Programs – It is essential that companies consider a mentorship program that facilitates effective
teamwork and good communication between veterans and seasoned employees. These mentor-mentee relationships are key to
developing an environment that encourages a smooth transition, and enable veterans to hone their skills in the workforce.
Attend Military Hiring Conferences – Unlike traditional job fairs, businesses have the opportunity to interview and recruit preselected
candidates who match their business needs. The conferences provide a unique opportunity for companies to connect with military
leaders, engineers and technicians who have exceptional and proven abilities, and serves to bridge the gap between companies
seeking to hire specific skill sets and the U.S. military veterans who possess them.
Whether you find yourself among the 16 percent of companies actively hiring military veterans, or the 60 percent who are interested
in further exploring the opportunity, I would like to learn more about strategies you encourage for military veterans transitioning into
civilian careers.
Lucas Group Military Hiring Conferences are held at various locations across the nation throughout the year. Click here for additional
information and to learn more about Hiring a Hero today!
www.lucasgroup.com