5 Tips for Military Members Creating a LinkedIn Profile for Post-Military Job Search

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be both exciting and challenging. One of the crucial steps in this transition is creating a strong LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills, experience, and potential to prospective employers. Here are five valuable tips to help you make an impressive LinkedIn profile that maximizes your post-military career opportunities.

Highlight your military experience.

As a military member, your service has equipped you with a unique set of skills and experiences that are highly valuable to employers. When creating your LinkedIn profile, emphasize these qualities. Start with a concise, compelling headline showcasing your military background and key strengths. In the “About” section, briefly overview your military career, highlighting your leadership abilities, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Use industry-relevant keywords to increase your visibility to potential employers searching for candidates with military experience.

Translate your skills.

One of the challenges Veterans face is translating their military skills into civilian language. Employers may not understand military jargon, so you must translate your skills and accomplishments into terms they can quickly grasp. Use civilian equivalents to describe your roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Focus on transferable skills such as project management, strategic planning, communication, and technical expertise. This will help potential employers see how your military experience aligns with their needs. Use numbers, figures, and statistics to quantify expertise whenever possible.

Build a professional network.

LinkedIn is a powerful networking platform; building a robust professional network can help your job search. Connect with fellow military members, Veterans, industry professionals, and recruiters. Identify and connect with  Veteran talent recruiters that work with companies you are interested in working for. Join relevant LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions to expand your network further. Actively engage with your connections by sharing relevant industry news, insights and contributing to discussions. A strong network can provide you with valuable contacts and potential job opportunities.

Leverage recommendations and endorsements.

Recommendations and endorsements on LinkedIn serve as proof of your skills and expertise. Reach out to your colleagues, supervisors, and military subordinates and request recommendations highlighting your strengths and achievements. Similarly, ask them to endorse your skills, which adds credibility to your profile. Remember to reciprocate these gestures by offering recommendations and endorsements to others within your network. This mutual support will strengthen your professional relationships and increase your visibility.

Continuously update and engage.

Your LinkedIn profile is not a static document; it should evolve as you progress in your post-military career. Regularly update your profile to reflect new accomplishments, certifications, or skills you acquire. Engage with your network by sharing relevant content, commenting on posts, and participating in conversations. Seek and follow industry influencers, companies, and organizations aligning with your career goals. Staying active and engaged on LinkedIn shows your dedication to professional growth and keeps you on the radar of potential employers.

Creating a compelling LinkedIn profile is crucial for military members transitioning into civilian careers. LinkedIn also offers eligible military community members one year of access to LinkedIn Premium and LinkedIn Learning, so make sure you take advantage of that offer.

Following these tips can enhance your job search and open doors to exciting post-military opportunities. Remember, your military service has equipped you with invaluable qualities that employers seek, and LinkedIn is the perfect platform to showcase your potential. Embrace the transition, seize the opportunities, and embark on a fulfilling post-military career journey!

Jim Hennessey is Code Platoon’s Director of Marketing. Jim brings a strong background in nonprofit marketing and start-up enterprises to the mission of Code Platoon. Jim is a graduate of Clemson University and currently lives in Chicago. Follow Jim on LinkedIn.