How does military service impact job applications?

I'm considering joining the military after high school and was curious how military service might look on a job application. Does serving give me an advantage in the hiring process, or is it neutral? Any specific experiences would be helpful!

While experiences can vary quite a bit, many employers do see military service as a plus when it comes to hiring. A few reasons for this include:

Transferable Skills: The military often provides individuals with valuable skills that can easily translate to civilian jobs. This might be technical knowledge relevant to certain fields, or more "soft" skills like discipline, leadership, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure.

Relevant Experience: Many roles in the military have civilian counterparts. For example, if you served in a logistics role while in the military, that could prepare you well for a career in supply chain management.

Strong Work Ethic: Students who've served in the military often have a reputation for being disciplined, hardworking, and reliable, qualities that are highly valued by employers across many fields.

Veteran Hiring Initiatives: Many companies have initiatives aimed specifically at hiring veterans. These can range from small to large-scale efforts and often provide assistance with the transition into the civilian workforce.

So, in general, military service can serve as a distinct advantage on your job applications. However, it's also worth noting that translating your military experiences into civilian language can sometimes be challenging. Make sure to effectively communicate the relevant skills you've gained during your service in a way that employers can understand and appreciate.

Lastly, don't forget about resources available to veterans, such as the Veterans Employment Center, which can provide further guidance on navigating job applications post-military service.