Returning to the civilian workforce can be a daunting journey for veterans, but A.J., a dedicated volunteer with Hire Heroes USA, has been making this transition smoother since 2015. With a background as an HR talent manager and recruiter, A.J. leverages his expertise to empower veterans, helping them navigate the challenges of civilian employment and find success in their new careers.
ChatGPT said:Returning to the civilian workforce can be a daunting journey for veterans, but A.J., a dedicated volunteer with Hire Heroes USA, has been making this transition smoother since 2015. With a background as an HR talent manager and recruiter, A.J. leverages his expertise to empower veterans, helping them navigate the challenges of civilian employment and find success in their new careers.
A.J. first connected with Hire Heroes USA when his HR team was looking for candidates transitioning from military service. “Hire Heroes USA was the ideal match because they had a streamlined way of connecting candidates to recruiters,” he explains. “I knew I wanted to volunteer because it’s crucial to help these veterans and spouses who have sacrificed for our country.”
Volunteering allows A.J. to provide veterans with a roadmap tailored to their unique experiences, covering essential topics like job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation. He understands that many veterans downplay their achievements, so he works to help them articulate their military experiences in a way that resonates with civilian recruiters. “Clients have become desensitized to their remarkable versatility, often downplaying their accomplishments,” A.J. notes. “I assist them with articulating their capabilities.”
One memorable example involved a veteran who initially gave one-word answers during a mock interview. A.J. dug deeper, encouraging the client to share more about his technical expertise gained in the Army. As the veteran began recounting stories of performing field repairs under challenging conditions, A.J. highlighted the significance of these experiences. The veteran’s realization that his skills were indeed valuable marked a turning point in his confidence.
A.J.’s approach reinforces the idea that military candidates are not only capable but also adaptable and coachable. He believes that hiring managers should take the time to understand the depth of a veteran’s experience, as these individuals have demonstrated their ability to learn quickly and perform under pressure. For A.J., the ultimate reward comes when a veteran or spouse shares the news of landing a job.
Hire Heroes USA is deeply grateful for volunteers like A.J., who dedicate their time to ensuring that veterans’ skills and experiences are not just recognized but celebrated by prospective employers.
Written by: Sandy Chase