Effectively Displaying Your Military Experience- A Guide to Crafting Your Resume

How do you list military experience on a resume? Whether you’re a transitioning service member or a veteran looking for civilian employment, effectively showcasing your military background is crucial. The military offers a unique set of skills and experiences that can be highly valuable in the civilian workforce. In this article, we will guide you through the process of listing your military experience on a resume, ensuring that you present your background in the best possible light.

When listing military experience on a resume, it’s essential to focus on the transferable skills and accomplishments that align with civilian job requirements. Start by creating a clear and concise section dedicated to your military service. Here are some key steps to follow:

1. Include the Full Title of Your Rank and Branch: Begin the military experience section with your full rank and branch of service, followed by the dates of service. For example: “United States Army, 2005-2013.”

2. List Promotions and Awards: Highlight any promotions or commendations you received during your service. This demonstrates your leadership potential and commitment to excellence. For example: “Promoted to Sergeant, 2010.”

3. Detail Specific Duties and Responsibilities: Use bullet points to describe your duties and responsibilities. Focus on accomplishments and quantifiable results. For example: “Led a team of 10 soldiers in conducting security operations, resulting in a 20% decrease in incidents.”

4. Highlight Transferable Skills: Identify skills gained during your military service that are relevant to the civilian job you’re applying for. These may include leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. For example: “Experienced in managing projects, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and delivering results under tight deadlines.”

5. Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume to improve your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). For example, if you’re applying for a project management position, include terms like “project management,” “team leadership,” and “budgeting.”

6. Include Any Specialized Training: If you’ve received specialized training or certifications during your military service, make sure to include them. This can help you stand out as a candidate with unique skills. For example: “Completed Army Airborne School, 2007.”

7. Proofread and Edit: Ensure that your resume is free of typos and grammatical errors. A well-written resume reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

By following these steps, you can effectively list your military experience on a resume and showcase the valuable skills and experiences you’ve gained during your service. Remember to tailor your resume to each job application, emphasizing the most relevant aspects of your military background. With a well-crafted resume, you’ll be well on your way to finding the civilian career that suits you best.