Topic 10:

Developing a Resume with Government/Military Experience for Corporate HRD

Question: I have been sending resumes out for training positions for about a year. I have a Masters in HRD. My responses have been that I don't have the "in-depth" corporate and industrial experience. How do I get my military experience(s) to be expected/considered as valid or credible as depth corporate/industrial experience? My resume doesn't use any military language/jargon, but the locations and unit assignment are giveaways. I've also tried functional types of formats as well. What do you suggest?

--LM, Atlanta, GA

Answer: Not using military language/jargon is a good start to developing a resume that showcases your strengths and markets you to specific organizations. However, does it tell your story in a way that highlights relevant/transferable skills, competencies, and experiences? The private sector usually welcomes former military personnel due to their experience and attributes. Your background information indicates 10 years of training experience - all I assume in the military. Prior to the development of your resume did you ask yourself the following questions:

• What are my transferable/functional skills or knowledge that are applicable to T&D i.e., management, supervisory, project management, performance appraisal, teamwork, communications, interpersonal relations.
• Are any of the topics or issues that I addressed in my training courses/sessions relevant to the corporation world? If so, are they showcased in my resume?
• Have I incorporated my successes to promote my strengths?
• In addition to training, did I do any facilitation or assessment activities, and if so, are they included in my resume?
• Have I identified where my strengths and expertise will best fit in and be welcomed by organizations - that is, is it clear either in a cover letter or the resume how I can meet the needs of an employer? While in coursework for the MA in HRD, were any of my papers or term projects concerned with corporate T&D problems or issues? If so, are they included in the resume?
• Usually a functional resume works for someone in the midst of making a career transition since it allows you a way to highlight within the 1st third of your resume your professional expertise.

Also, read Resumes for Former Military Personnel, VGM Career Books Editors, McGraw Hill, 2001.

If you have not as yet joined the local ASTD Chapter, I would recommend you do so for networking purposes and to participate in any career services they may have for members, including critiquing resumes and a job referral listing. Find out if any of the members are ex-military personnel and set up informational interviews regarding their successful transition into corporate training.

--AR