Decoding Civilian Job Listings to Translate Your Military Experience

You likely already possess the majority of qualifications today’s top jobs require. The challenge lies in learning to describe your military background with the civilian terminology employers seek. By analyzing sample job listings related to your field, you can crack the language code and frame your unparalleled experience powerfully.

For example, take a veteran transitioning from years as an Air Force Logistics and Supply Chain Manager. Skilled at directing teams, assets and complex global logistics operations to accomplish critical missions worldwide.

Yet civilian employers won’t inherently understand what “expertly planning contingency supply chains supporting overseas special operations” fully means and demonstrates. This veteran would benefit enormously from studying target civilian industries’ job descriptions.

For instance, a Supply Chain Manager role at a major retailer may use terms like:

• Coordinate cross-functional teams spanning transportation, distribution centers & vendors

• Optimize logistics networks managing millions in inventory assets

• Lead improvement initiatives reducing costs by 18% over 3 years

By listing aligned examples of team leadership, managing ample resources to meet objectives and process improvements, this veteran can help translate their value into easily digestible yet still impressive civilian terminology.

Resources like ONetOnline’s Military Crosswalk (https://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/) also help civilians and veterans map related roles and requirements serving as translation guides. Additionally, the VA’s skills translators provide civilian language equilents:

• For Army roles - https://www.army.mil/skills

• For Navy ratings - https://www.cool.navy.mil/usn/jst/jst_translate.pdf

The wider realm of civilian professionals may not intuitively understand what serving as cavalry scout or air defense operations specialist entails. But that makes diligently analyzing target industry terms and crafting clear conversions in your resume even more vital and impactful.

When transitioning from military to civilian life, it is important to highlight your transferable skills and experiences in your resume.
Consider these tips…

1. Start by clearly stating your objective or career goal, emphasizing how your military background has prepared you for success in the civilian sector.

2. Focus on specific accomplishments and responsibilities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

3. Use civilian-friendly language and avoid military jargon to ensure your resume is easily understood by employers.

4. Consider including any relevant certifications, trainings, or education you have received during your military service.

5. Tailor your resume to each job application, highlighting the skills and experiences that align with the specific requirements of the position.

6. Finally, proofread your resume carefully to ensure it is error-free and presents a professional image.