As we celebrate Veterans Day, it is important to recognize the human skills veterans bring to the workforce. The demand for human skills continues to grow as many organizations are experiencing skills gaps that have the potential to hinder productivity and long-term success. According to Springboard’s The State of the Workforce Skills Gap 2024, a staggering 70% of corporate leaders report critical skills gaps that negatively impact business performance. While many of these gaps are related to technical skills, there are also gaps related to what many refer to as human or durable skills, skills that include problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication.
The Skills Gap Crisis
Employers are trying to navigate a rapidly changing and uncertain world caused by technological advancements, new ways of working, employee expectations, and a volatile global political environment. Employers need a strong workforce to help their organizations thrive in this environment; however, many new employees entering the workforce are not meeting employers’ expectations. A survey by Intelligent.com found that 75% of companies report that they were not satisfied with many of the recent college graduates who they have hired. Concerns included a lack of motivation, poor communication skills, and inadequate professionalism. Another report from Business Name Generator revealed that 84% of employees and managers believe that new hires must possess and demonstrate human skills during the hiring process.
How can employers find job candidates who possess a solid foundation of human skills? They should look to veterans.
Veterans: A Proven Foundation of Human Skills
Military members develop a strong foundation of human skills through their service in the military. Veterans have not only received extensive training but also have years of practical experience applying these skills in high-stress, ambiguous, and diverse environments. Veterans’ human skills will set them up for success as they make the transition to the civilian workforce. Here are some of the in-demand human skills that veterans possess.
- Leadership: Military members are immersed in a culture of leadership beginning with their first day of basic training. Whether they are leading teams or observing leaders in action, they learn how to guide and inspire others through exposure to excellent examples of leadership but also to bad examples. This prepares veterans to lead effectively in the workforce.
- Teamwork: Military operations rely on teamwork and working with people who have backgrounds different from their own. Veterans learn to effectively collaborate with team members as military service requires teamwork to work together to achieve common goals, make quick decisions in coordination with others, and build trust in stressful environments.
- Adaptability: Military service prepares members to be resilient and adaptable in the face of uncertainty. Veterans have lived and worked in different parts of the country and the world. This has required them to adjust to new cultures, environments, and tasks. This adaptability is crucial in today’s fast-paced work environment.
- Problem-Solving: Problem-solving is a core component of military training at the individual and organizational level. Service members are taught to analyze complex situations, develop strategies, and execute under pressure. Veterans bring this structured problem-solving approach to the workplace, helping organizations navigate complexity and uncertainty.
- Time Management: Time management is essential for success in the military. Veterans are accustomed to meeting deadlines and understand the importance of punctuality, and they see how this supports the organization’s success.
- Continual Learning: Military members receive formal and informal education and training throughout their service. They must embrace continuous learning as they are required to adapt to new technologies, roles, and responsibilities. Veterans’ willingness and ability to continually learn are essential in a business environment marked by constant change.
- Discipline: We are in an era of pervasive distractions, yet veterans have honed their ability to stay focused, even in demanding conditions. They can maintain productivity without the constant urge to check their phones, a skill that many employers find invaluable. They also understand the importance of wearing appropriate attire for the situation.
- Communication: Clear and concise communication is vital in the military. Military members are trained to give and receive precise instructions. This skill enables veterans to effectively communicate in the workplace, ensuring that information flows smoothly and misunderstandings are minimized.
The Value of Hiring Veterans
Employers who hire veterans are not just making a patriotic gesture. They are gaining team members who are uniquely equipped to advance their organizations. This makes investing in veteran talent a strategic move for companies looking to address their human skills gaps. Veterans’ adaptability, leadership, and teamwork can drive organizational growth and resilience. Moreover, veterans’ disciplined approach to work can address many of the concerns employers express in surveys.
As we celebrate those who have served, let us also recognize the immense value they bring to the civilian workforce. Veterans have developed and utilized the human skills that many employers are seeking. By hiring, companies can build stronger, more resilient teams equipped to thrive in today’s and tomorrow’s rapidly changing and uncertain environment.