I'm looking into future job opportunities in Denver for military veterans. Planning ahead for after high school and curious how veterans can make a transition into civilian jobs in the area. Any advice or resources?
It's fantastic that you're considering a strategy for the transition from the military to civilian sector! Denver has a fairly robust job market for veterans, and many local businesses recognize the value of skills, discipline, and leadership that veterans bring.
One invaluable resource is local veteran job fairs, which are regularly held in Denver and other cities within Colorado. These events can often connect veterans directly with companies that are interested in employing veterans. They're a great networking opportunity where you can discover more about companies, what they are currently hiring for, and their culture. Don't forget to come prepared with several copies of your resume and dress smartly – you never know, you might land a job right then and there!
The Denver Office of Economic Development and Opportunity also has a Veterans Services division. They offer services like career counselling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance specifically tailored for veterans.
You may also want to reach out to organizations like the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), which has a career center with job postings, resume writing help, and networking tips.
Make sure to also translate your military skills into civilian terms. Many businesses highly value the leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that are learned in the military, but you'll want to break these down into skills that are specific to the industry that you're interested in.
For instance, if you're considering positions in project management, you've likely coordinated teams and projects during your military service. Frame your experience in that light and detail how you managed resources, planned effectively, and sparked collaboration among diverse teams.
Lastly, consider leveraging LinkedIn. You can network with other veterans in your desired industry, as well as join groups for veteran job-seekers. Plus, LinkedIn offers a one-year free premium subscription for veterans that will allow you to see who's viewed your profile, send direct messages to job posters, and get priority in job applications.
Remember, it's all about tailoring your military experience to demonstrate how you can add value to civilian roles. Good luck!
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