How can I translate military jobs into resume terms?

I'm trying to translate my military experience into something that looks good on a resume for civilian jobs. Any tips or resources that explain how to translate different military roles into skills that employers will understand? Thanks! 😊

Conveying your military experience in a civilian language can indeed add significant value to your resume. Here are some concrete ways to help you bridge that gap.

1. Job Titles: Try adapting your military job title to the civilian equivalent whenever possible. For instance, if you were an "Infantry Squad Leader", you might translate that to "Personnel Supervisor", emphasizing your leadership role.

2. Skills: Translate the skills and responsibilities you've acquired into ones that your civilian employer would comprehend and appreciate. For instance, strategic planning, teamwork, decision making under high pressure, and logistical coordination are all valuable skills that translate directly from military to civilian roles.

3. Avoid Jargon: Avoid using military-specific abbreviations or jargon on your resume. Recruiters and hiring managers might not be familiar with military terminology.

4. Accomplishments: Emphasize what you achieved in each role. Rather than merely stating your responsibilities, also mention your results and the impact you made on the task or unit.

5. Certifications and Training: Many military roles involve training and certifications, which can be valuable in a civilian context, so be sure to include them on your resume.

6. Use Online Tools: Online platforms such as "ONET OnLine" or "Military.com's Skills Translator" can help you translate your military role into terms a civilian employer would understand by providing military-to-civilian occupation translations.

By relaying your military experience in language that civilian employers can understand, you'll be able to showcase the unique qualities you can bring to their organization. Best of luck with your job search!