After serving in the military, how do you apply the skills you gained to different career opportunities? Many veterans face the challenges of transitioning into the civilian world after serving their country. This includes learning how to interview correctly for employment. Here are some tips veterans can use to improve their interview performance.
Before the Interview
Prepare a resume detailing all the skills and experiences you have gained during your service. To avoid military jargon, use a skilled translator or an occupational classification tool to make the terms more understandable to civilian employers. You should bring several copies of each of your resumes to the interview. Although they may not be needed, it’s better to distribute them to other people.
Contact your references to update their information and inform them of your potential employer’s communication plans. Before the interview, conduct comprehensive research about the company and its operations. This will allow you to prepare for the questions asked during the interview. You should also learn about the history of the organization and its various departments. Doing so will allow you to understand the company’s structure and how it functions thoroughly.
It would help if you arrived at least 10 to 15 minutes early. This will show the potential employer that you value your time and are willing to take the time to make the necessary arrangements. If an unexpected delay occurs, make sure to contact the interviewer right away.
During the Interview
Make sure to introduce yourself to everyone you interact with during the meeting. Upbeat and confident about your abilities and skills, you will be able to contribute to the company’s success. Avoid using military jargon when discussing your experience. Instead, use the STAR format to answer questions. This will allow you to explain how your skills and experiences are related to the job position.
After the Interview
You should also send an email or a letter of appreciation to thank the interviewer and the company for their time. In addition, you can include any details that you forgot during the interview. Before accepting a job offer, ensure your work environment is right. In addition to the salary and benefits, other factors, such as the company’s culture and location, should also be considered. If the company does not respond to you after the interview, do not despair. You might have yet to be offered the job for many reasons. To improve your interviewing skills, look at the mistakes you made during the interview.