What is the best way to document military experience on a resume for a civilian job?

SSgt Peter Waibel — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 16:34:55 -0500

I understand the concept of not using military jargon and using plain English. I am talking about all the different duties and responsibilities a person may have had at different stations/bases/posts. Do we list each duty station separately or do we list them all under the banner ‘Active Duty Military’ (respective to branch) and then list the various duties performed during said service term? And when asked for “Prior Employer Company Name, Address, Supervisor, telephone number, etc” what is the proper information? The problem I have is that I don’t know if the employer wants the last duty station or someplace they can contact in order to verify information. Please advise. Thank you.

Response by Sgt Craig Barry made Feb 6 at 2015 2:07 PM

Sgt Craig Barry — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 14:07:04 -0500

You list them separately, you do not have to give every little detail, just mainly the most significant jobs you've done and what they entailed. The way you format your resume varies as well, you have to adjust each resume based on the type of job your looking for. It is also good to include a cover letter.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Feb 6 at 2015 2:19 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 14:19:07 -0500

It depends on how long you were in, or what you want to highlight.

When I first got out, I did this had major bullets for each of my duty stations/commands, and then listed my billets as the actual job titles under each.

As I've had more jobs, I've consolidated it down to USMC/Intelligence Analyst, and used explained things under the heading.

When dealing with Prior Employer information, USAF, and last duty station is generally sufficient. Your DD214 will act as your employment verification (95% of time).

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2015 3:13 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 15:13:51 -0500

Honestly, I paid a professional resume writer to do it for me. There are companies out there that specialize in this. It will run you around $200, which sounds like a lot, but it comes with a lot of really good stuff.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2016 3:42 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 15:42:12 -0400

Find the job you want in the sector you are looking for. Example is Business Analyst for the Department of Defense in "XYZ" agency. I'm a fan of the veteran preference and opportunities within the federal government. Utilize USAjobs.gov to search and start off nationally or across multiple states. Obviously be realistic with your experience and education matching. If not get a certification, complete that degree or volunteer for experience.

Once you have the position in mind. Do a GOOGLE search and check out some resumes from people who are where you want to be. Use that as a benchmark and start with your most current position and work backwards. If you are new to the work force a one page resume will do. If you have 20 years experience and are applying for director at $100,000+ two is acceptable.

You must focus on and post your best accomplishments. Examples could include:
* Managed 6 soldiers to complete organization inspection with zero defects, which supported ISO rectification.
* Coordinated 1500 financial transactions for head quarters operation that supported 800 soldiers and civilians.
* Coordinated and briefed financial and training metrics to senior leadership on a weekly basis.
* Earned outstanding soldier of the quarter for leadership and successful completion of multiple missions during high tempo operation.

Finally, remember your resume is the first step to you obtaining an interview. One final note, think in corporate and citizen terms. If you completed Airman Career Course and obtained your 7 level. It might be easier to place that under education as Advanced Leadership Course, 200 hours. Message me if you require more guidance.