How Can I Phrase Military Jobs for Civilian Resumes?

I'm planning on transitioning from military service to a civilian career. How do I best phrase my military roles and experiences on a civilian resume without using jargon that might not be familiar to non-military employers?

Transitioning from a military role to a civilian career is a significant shift and communicating your experiences effectively on a resume can be a challenge. Here's how you can approach it:

1. Use Civilian Terminology: Start by translating military jargon into civilian terms. For example, if you were an infantry platoon leader, you could describe yourself as a strategic team manager. There are also many online tools and services available that can help you translate your military skills into civilian language.

2. Highlight Transferable Skills: Even if a job role doesn't seem directly applicable to civilian work, you've likely developed a plethora of transferable skills in the military that are highly valued in civilian jobs. These skills might include leadership, team management, problem-solving, and crisis management. Emphasize these areas in your resume to showcase your versatility.

3. Demonstrate Achievements: When detailing your military experience, focus on your achievements and how they positively impacted your unit or mission, rather than just describing the duties you carried out. Use numbers and specific examples wherever you can.

4. Include Relevant Training and Certifications: The military often provides a variety of special training and certification programs. Make sure to include any that are relevant to the role you're applying to. For example, if you received leadership training or if you have been certified in project management, those credentials can help present you as a formidable candidate for management roles.

5. Outline your Military Career in a Professional Summary: Create a professional summary at the top of your resume to quickly highlight your military experience and what you can offer a potential employer. This concise introduction can serve as a focal point, presenting your skills and experiences in a manner that is directly appealing to civilian employers.

Remember to keep your explanations concise, clear, and targeted towards the requirements of the job you're applying. It's all about showcasing your military experience as a strength that you'll bring into the civilian workforce. Good luck with your transition!