Principal Strategic Alliances Manager with UKG
M.B.A., U.S. Marine Veteran
Founded & lead our VETS ERG at UKG
As we observe Veterans Day, we reflect not only on the sacrifices veterans have made for our country but on how we, as HR professionals, can meaningfully support veterans in our workplaces. Moving beyond traditional expressions of gratitude, Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize the unique skills and strengths veterans bring to our organizations. In New York City’s competitive job market, fostering veteran hiring isn’t just an act of appreciation; it’s a strategic choice that brings exceptional talent and commitment into our workplaces.
Here are key considerations for attracting and retaining veteran talent in ways that go beyond the surface, helping veterans find purpose, engagement, and community within your organization:
- Aligning Purpose with Mission
Many veterans seek purpose-driven roles where they feel their work makes an impact. Engaging them in meaningful work aligns with their values and can foster long-term commitment. During recruitment, take the time to learn what drives their sense of purpose. Aligning their personal mission with your organization’s goals can enhance engagement and strengthen their connection to your team. - Recognize Value in Entry-Level Applications from Veterans
Veterans often apply for roles below their previous rank for various reasons:- Seeking New Challenges: Some veterans may want to step back from the high-level demands of military leadership, seeking roles where they can focus on personal growth.
- Commitment to Your Mission: Veterans are no strangers to working their way up. If they believe in your organization’s mission, they’re often willing to start in a lower role and grow, bringing with them resilience, loyalty, and adaptability that are invaluable to any team.
- Appreciate the Intangibles Veterans Bring
Veterans possess many valuable traits that may not be immediately obvious on a resume. Consider these:- Strong Directional Skills: Veterans are accustomed to following and giving clear directions as they advance, which builds strong leadership and accountability.
- Adaptability Under Pressure: Many veterans are adept at managing high-stakes situations and leading others through challenges, often pivoting quickly to adapt to new circumstances. This adaptability and stress resilience are assets in any workplace.
- Invest in Veteran-Focused Recruiting
Allocating part of your recruiting budget toward veteran-focused websites and job boards is a simple, budget-friendly step that demonstrates a true commitment to veteran hiring. This small investment can help veterans feel valued and increase your organization’s visibility among highly skilled, mission-oriented candidates. - Translate Military Skills into Civilian Terms
Websites like TAOnline and Military.com can help translate veterans’ Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) into tangible, civilian-relevant skills. This helps ensure you fully understand their unique qualifications and highlights how veterans’ experiences can meet your organizational needs.
Veterans often bring with them a deep sense of loyalty, transparency, teamwork, and a commitment to “never leave anyone behind.” These qualities, invaluable to any organization, make veterans strong team players who thrive in both collaborative and independent roles. As NYC SHRM members, we are uniquely positioned to champion veteran hiring initiatives that are inclusive, strategic, and impactful.
Consider Establishing a Veteran-Supportive Environment
For organizations looking to increase veteran support, establishing an Employee Resource Group (ERG) can be a great step. ERGs offer a platform for veterans to connect, share experiences, and find support within the workplace. Even if your organization isn’t ready to launch a formal ERG, exploring smaller initiatives can build momentum toward veteran-focused community-building efforts, aligning with SHRM’s values of inclusivity and diversity.
Call to Action: Moving Forward with Purpose
As we honor veterans this year, consider how your organization can take concrete steps toward becoming more veteran-friendly. Whether it’s developing a robust hiring initiative, supporting veterans in career growth, or fostering community, your efforts can make a meaningful impact.
NYC SHRM members, you have a unique opportunity to integrate veterans’ strengths into your workforce, creating a lasting impact not only for these veterans but for your entire organization. By recognizing and leveraging the valuable skills veterans bring, we can enrich our workplaces, honor their contributions, and create a culture of purpose and inclusion that reflects the best of our HR community.
