Despite veterans facing a higher than average unemployment rate, 20 percent of employers say they are actively looking to hire veterans over the next year, and another 14 percent are actively recruiting National Guard members, according to a study conducted by Harris Interactive in partnership with CareerBuilder.
Veterans' technical, communications and leadership abilities are especially appealing, as 36 percent of employers are recruiting for information technology positions, the survey reveals. Other employment areas that employers are looking to fill with veterans are customer service at 28 percent, engineering at 25 percent and sales at 22 percent.
"The unemployment rate for veterans who left military service over the last decade continues to outpace that of the civilian work force," says Brent Rasmussen, president of CareerBuilder North America. "After fighting for their country, they come home fighting for jobs. The survey shows that employers recognize the unique value military experience can bring but that they don't always understand how military skills fit into corporate America. Veterans will need to clearly make that connection in their resume, cover letter and job interviews as they enter this new chapter of their careers."
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While some employers are actively recruiting veterans, 41 percent of respondents cite difficulty in determining how military experience translates into civilian positions, the survey shows, and 27 percent of respondents say recruiting veterans can be challenging because they don't always showcase their military background.
Of veterans' unique experiences, respondents say the most important qualities are discipline at 66 percent, ability to work as a team member at 65 percent, respect and integrity at 58 percent, leadership skills at 56 percent, problem-solving skills at 54 percent, ability to perform under pressure at 53 percent and communication skills at 45 percent.
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