If you were buying a new car, you'd do your research first, right? You wouldn't just take the word of a salesperson or a well-meaning friend who says, "This car would be great for you!" Instead, you'd check the safety rating and performance reviews, talk to a lot of people who already own the model, and evaluate the history of that automaker. Then you'd step on the car lot and test it for yourself.
It's just as important to research the company you want to work for (and with).
We may not get to "kick the tires" on a new employer, but there are ways to evaluate the strength of a company's commitment to hiring military talent, and whether your goals and values align with what they say they stand for.
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I recently spoke at the Employing U.S. VETS Conference in New York City, hosted by VETS Indexes, where organizations that embody their proclaimed values were recognized for advancing veteran talent. Sure, awards are fun and flattering, but to win a VETS Indexes employer award is an arduous and detailed process, and these organizations continue to reinforce a commitment to hiring, onboarding and growing veterans.
Open to employers of all sizes and industries, the recognition program receives applications from hundreds of organizations. Nearly 300 employers were selected and recognized for their efforts to recruit, retain and support veterans and the military-connected community.
Applying for the award requires a deep dive into data from all layers of the organization, including veteran recruiting and hiring policies and practices, development and retention of military talent, policies and culture that support veteran inclusivity, support for members of the National Guard and Reserves, and commitment to support military spouses and families.
The top employers recognize that hiring veteran talent isn't something you do just because it feels (or looks good), but because it makes business sense.
It's notable that the organizations that made the list include large employers such as Comcast, Lowe's and Merck; government organizations such as the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office in Florida; and nonprofits with veteran-focused missions like The Warrior Alliance. It demonstrates their commitment and passion for the military community.
"Hiring veterans isn't just good PR -- it's good for your bottom line," VETS Indexes President George Altman said.
Knowing which employers have demonstrated such commitments is helpful when job hunting. You could consider this a starting point to source opportunities, networking contacts and follow the best practices they've developed.
"We are pleased and very proud to recognize these incredible employers that have worked so hard to prioritize veteran employment," VETS Indexes' Nicholas Antaki said. "With the survey being quantitative in nature, there is no room to 'trick the test,' showing us that they truly do walk the talk."
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