Does your Military Resume Showcase your Abilities?

Coming out of the service and entering civilian life can be a scary transition, particularly during tough economic times where no vet is guaranteed a job. The good news is that the unmanned robotics industry is primed to take off in the next several years, and for many who have served in the past, your experience may be exactly what hiring managers are looking for.

Not only do you have the proven ability to handle deployments, but you also know what it means to work as a team towards a shared goal. In many cases, the skills you gained in the military can directly apply to the unmanned robotics field. But knowing how to represent those experiences is half the battle in getting hired.

·         Focus on Your Experience, Not Your Title: It's common for those just coming out of the military to undersell the skills they gained while in service. Many have a difficult time seeing how those skills could translate into a civilian career, as they relate them so directly to the specifics of whatever job they were meant to carry out while in service. Even though you won't be going on missions or supporting entire platoons once out, the work you did is often applicable to the unmanned robotics industry. For instance, we are always looking for skilled pilots and fast learners who are able grasp some of the more technical aspects of our industry. Many hiring managers are willing to train workers; so long as they believe those workers have the background to pick up the intricacies of the job. Your skills and experience prove you have that background, and should be focused on as a result.

·         Utilize Your Connections: One great thing about the military is the connections you are able to make while in service. Chances are you already know somebody in the unmanned robotics industry. Even if you don't, there are plenty of ex-servicemen and women currently in this industry who are always looking for opportunities to help fellow vets. Use those connections and network your way into the right unmanned robotics job for you.

·         Create a Functional Resume: Update your resume to a functional format, which involves listing your skills at the top where most hiring managers are sure to look first. A standard chronological job resume can be good when you are remaining within your field, but for a career change (as with leaving the military for civilian life) it is best to make those skills the focal point so that hiring managers can see exactly what you have to offer. 

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