Veterans Report Difficulty Finding Jobs

November 12, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Nearly one-in-five veterans (17%) looking for a job said it took more than six months to secure one after leaving active duty, according to a CareerBuilder.com survey.

A CareerBuilder press release said nearly one-in-ten survey respondents reported it took one year or more. Twenty percent of veterans surveyed say they believe the biggest challenge to getting hired for a civilian position is employers’ inability to understand how military skills can fulfill qualifications for a civilian job.

According to the press release, respondents also cited lack of a college degree, a low number of jobs in their area, and inexperience with civilian job interviewing as other reasons they are having difficulty finding employment.

In spite of the disconnect veterans feel, CareerBuilder found that nearly 20% of employers said they will be actively recruiting veterans over the next 12 months.

When asked what qualities are most important that a veteran can bring to their organization, employers said:

  • The ability to be part of a team (74%),
  • Disciplined approach to work (73%),
  • Leadership skills (66%),
  • Respect and integrity (64%), and
  • Ability to perform under pressure (62%).

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