Military Transition Resumes – How to Write a Military Transition Resume

Members of the armed forces about to be discharged or recently separated from the service face unique challenges in preparing military transition resumes designed to create opportunities in the private business sector.  Responsibilities associated with military service positions are very closely defined.  Furthermore, the actual positions often have no counterparts in industry.  How, then, does one write a resume to transition from the military into a company?

First, the applicant should consider his or her overall skill sets (i.e., technical, logistical, clerical, decision-making, analytical, leadership).  Next, the candidate should adjudge which among those capabilities would be most beneficial to companies in the private sector.  With these factors in mind, the job seeker can now begin to fashion his military transition resume, utilizing language that is understandable to a human resources professional.  The candidate will want to avoid terms that are exclusive to the armed forces. Indeed, he may be compelled to do so, if holding a security clearance.  By phrasing duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments in terms more comprehensible to a civilian manager, the candidate will increase her chances to secure interviews with her military transition resume.

In writing a military transition resume, the job hopeful may also wish to consider the value of a cover letter.  Highlighting worthy personal attributes that can crossover into the work force, such as leadership ability and a cooperative attitude, a well-written cover letter will serve to support and enhance the military transition resume.