The transition from Defence to civilian life can be difficult on a number of fronts. Defence personnel often undertake extensive training courses not all of which are relevant to the civilian sector. However a number of private employers and major sectors including mining companies value Defence personnel. Many people leaving Defence struggle to understand what civilian organisations are seeking and how to present experience and qualifications. What are the common resume issues Defence personnel struggle with when transitioning to the civilian sector?
Language and Terminology: A significant amount of the terminology from the Defence sector is different to the civilian world. Language and terminology can differ between Defence and civilian resumes. Avoid acronyms and terminology specific to Defence which may be difficult to understand. Terminology such as subordinates and operations should be substituted with personnel and projects. Confusion is also created through the use of position titles. Many people do not understand the structure of Defence forces and titles such as section commander should be renamed to supervisor or team leader. This includes the use of words such as officer. Within Defence a Training Officer is a position of authority while in the civilian sector this indicates an individual who delivers training courses.
Courses: It is important to review training courses and identify what is relevant to the civilian sector. Trade qualifications are easily recognised and transferred. However at a basic level even a Private within Defence undertakes training relevant to the civilian sector. This may include teamwork, leadership, equipment use, vehicle operation and safety courses. In addition to this Defence personnel often participate in annual training courses relevant to equity and diversity, occupational health and safety and other areas. These courses and training are useful to the civilian sector while also demonstrating a willingness to continually improve and a capability to complete professional development. It is important to check the ability of agencies that can translate Defence training into civilian certificates.
Experience: Defence personnel are exposed to a range of experiences and operational activities. From a basic level through to leadership positions this experience is valuable. It is important for Defence personnel to recognise relevant tasks and clearly outline this in a resume. A private in Defence will have gained valuable experience in activities such as planning operations, undertaking risk assessments, operating plant and equipment, undertaking general maintenance and performing under pressure. While a section commander or team leader clearly demonstrates project management skills through the supervision of staff, organisation of resources, planning of operations, implementation of safety practices and monitoring progress. Specialist areas such as trade qualifications, combat engineers, medical staff, drivers, hospitality staff and other positions have direct relevance to the civilian sector. When presenting experience it is important to recognise irrelevant or unnecessary information. Civilian agencies are rarely interested in weapons qualifications or related experience and are unlikely to be interested in postings especially where the work duties remain the same.
Awards and Recognition: An often overlooked area is awards, medals and recognition. Medals or certificates recognising participation in deployments, operations or disaster responses can also be presented. The presentation of awards or recognition highlights excellence in performance and achievement.
In general Defence personnel are attractive to civilian employers. The capability to follow direction, work as part of a small and close-knit team and continually participate in training is attractive to sectors such as mining companies. It is important to research organisations or employers to determine exactly what is required and the information that should be presented in your resume. Providing clear, concise and relevant information will assist in making a successful transition.
John Matthews from The Writing Wizards has assisted more than 10,000 clients seeking employment for over 10 years. This has been through preparing professional resumes, Government applications and interview coaching across all industries.
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