When service members transition out of the military, they bring with them resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to mission-driven work.

Yet too often, veterans and military spouses encounter barriers in civilian workplaces that leave their talents overlooked and their experiences misunderstood.

Building truly inclusive workplaces means recognizing the unique challenges faced by those who have served, and those who continue to serve through family sacrifices.

Understanding the Transition to Civilian Work

Veterans face multiple obstacles when shifting into civilian careers:

• Skill Translation Gaps: Military roles often involve complex leadership, logistics, and technical skills, but these capabilities may not align neatly with civilian job titles or descriptions.

• Bias and Misconceptions: Some employers hold unfounded assumptions about veterans’ mental health, adaptability, or "fit" for corporate environments.

• Loss of Structure and Community: Leaving the close-knit, high-structure environment of the military can create feelings of isolation in civilian workplaces.

Military spouses face additional hurdles:

• Career Disruptions: Frequent relocations often lead to resume gaps, licensing issues, and difficulty building long-term professional networks.

• Employment Bias: Some employers hesitate to hire military spouses due to concerns about job longevity.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the unemployment rate for military spouses has historically hovered around 22%, significantly higher than the national average (U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 2023).

Veteran and Military Spouse Inclusion is a DEI Imperative

Including veterans and military families in DEI strategies strengthens workplaces in critical ways:

• Diverse Experiences: Veterans bring global perspectives, crisis management skills, and mission-oriented leadership.

• Resilience and Adaptability: Military families are accustomed to navigating change, uncertainty, and high-stakes environments.

• Civic Values: Veterans and their families often carry a strong sense of public service, ethics, and collective responsibility.

When employers overlook these talents, they miss out on one of the most resilient, disciplined, and loyal talent pools available.

How Employers Can Support Veterans and Military Spouses

• Build Skill Translation Guides: Help hiring managers understand how military experience maps to civilian job requirements.

• Launch Veteran and Military Spouse ERGs: Create employee resource groups that offer connection, mentorship, and leadership pathways.

• Offer Flexible and Remote Opportunities: Military spouses especially benefit from remote roles that accommodate relocations.

• Train Hiring Teams on Bias Mitigation: Equip recruiters and managers to see the value in non-linear career paths and nontraditional resumes.

• Partner with Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs): Engage organizations that specialize in veteran transition and military family support.

Real Inclusion Means Honoring All Forms of Service

Veterans and military spouses have spent years supporting missions larger than themselves.

Inclusive workplaces honor that commitment by providing clear pathways to civilian success, not obstacles rooted in misunderstanding.

Recognizing and valuing military-connected employees isn't just patriotic.

It’s smart, strategic, and aligned with building workplaces that genuinely reflect strength through diversity.

How Diversity.com Helps You Build a More Inclusive Workforce

At Diversity.com, we connect forward-thinking employers and job seekers who are committed to inclusion, equity, and creating meaningful change across all dimensions of diversity.

Whether you are strengthening your DEI strategy, expanding career opportunities, or building cultures where all identities and experiences are valued, we provide the tools, resources, and insights you need to lead with purpose.

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✔ Create a free employer account — Post open roles and hire with intention. Choose from flexible options: single listings, job credit packs, or subscription plans.
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Sources & References:

• U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. (2023). Military Spouse Employment Report. https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/reports/military-spouse-employment-report