Tips Employers Can Use To Find Veteran Talent

By Carolyn Renick, Apprenticeship, Licensing and Credentialing Lead for the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service at the U.S. Department of Labor

About the Resource

The U.S. Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) offers support to organizations looking to hire veteran talent. Below are five actionable tips to help attract veterans to your organization.

Tips for Hiring Veterans

• Connect with a Regional Veteran Employment Coordinator.

  VETS has six Regional Veteran Employment Coordinators who work with employers nationwide to facilitate veteran hiring. They assist in identifying hiring needs, developing action plans, and connecting employers with federal, state, and local resources. Whether you run a small local business or a large national corporation, coordinators can share best practices to help you find the talent your business needs.

• Reach out to the VETS State Director.

  VETS has staff in every state who foster local community relationships and provide information on job fairs, hiring events, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), and other resources.

• Speak with your Local Veterans’ Employment Representative.

  The Department of Labor operates over 2,400 American Job Centers nationwide, many with staff specializing in veterans’ employment. Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives can match your required skills with veterans’ resumes, post job openings, and personally refer qualified veterans to your organization.

• Start an apprenticeship program for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses.

  Employers can use a Registered Apprenticeship Program as a talent development model to attract, train, and diversify their workforce. These programs help recruit skilled talent, reduce turnover, and improve productivity. They can also be linked to the DoD’s SkillBridge program, allowing employers to connect with separating service members at no cost.

• Apply for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award.

  Each year, the Secretary of Labor recognizes employers for their commitment to recruiting, employing, and retaining veterans through the HIRE Vets Medallion Award—the only federal-level veterans’ employment award. Receiving this award demonstrates your organization’s dedication to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. Visit HIREVets.gov to learn more.

Additional Resources

For more ways to connect with veterans, explore the VETS Employer Guide to Hiring Veterans.