At Hays, we are proud to support professionals who have served in the military. ​​​​​Our recruiting experts can offer valuable advice, an unrivalled service and access to the top employers. Upload your CV and a member of the Hays team will be in touch to discuss how we can help you. 

First job after the military? Our top three tips:
 

1. Leverage your network
Take every opportunity to network. This can be with specialist recruiters, professional associations, or people you might have met at events who are also ex-forces. It helps to have a visible online profile to do this. We recommend setting up a LinkedIn account if you don’t have one already and make sure that it matches your CV.

2. Make your language relatable
We see lots of CVs that are steeped in military language. This can hinder your application by making it hard for employers to understand and appreciate your experience. Make your language relatable to the average hiring manager by replacing military-specific terminology with more generic language.

3. Secure your leaving statements
Leaving statements from ex-commanding officers are hugely valuable when applying for a new job outside the military. Comments that reference your work ethic, attitude and transferable skills will help you stand out against other candidates.
 

Here are more tools and resources to help you: 
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The Officers’ Association Virtual Employment Forum

Our CEO, Alistair Cox, recently spoke at the event where he covered:

• Advice on moving into civilian life and securing a role
• How to identify your transferable skills and put these to your advantage
• Support, training and resources Hays provides to those leaving the military

Find out more here.