ADVICE FOR VETERANS TRANSITIONING TO
THE ADVERTISING INDUSTRY

Did you know that Veterans are highly sought-after employees?

That's because Veterans have skills essential for success in the ad world. They're disciplined, detail-oriented, and good at problem-solving. Plus, they're used to working under pressure and meeting deadlines.

The advertising industry may be an excellent fit for Veteran looking for a career change. Many opportunities are available, and employers should consider Veterans who may not have a traditional career path. .

This article will examine how Veterans can transition into the advertising industry and what employers can do to ease their transition.

What Skillsets Veterans Can Bring to Advertising

Military Veterans have specialized skills and experience that can translate into a successful advertising career. Three essential frameworks for success in advertising are:

  • Adapting to Unpredictable Situations: The advertising industry is ever-changing. To be successful, you must be able to adapt to new situations quickly. This is something that Veterans are used to doing. In the military, you're constantly faced with new challenges and obstacles. As a result, you learn how to think on your feet and come up with creative solutions. This skill will serve you well in the ad world, where the ability to think outside the box is essential.

  • Value of Organizational Philosophy: A solid organizational philosophy is critical for any business. It's what gives a company its purpose and direction. Military Veterans learn the importance of having a clear hierarchy and chain of command. You understand that everyone has a role to play and that each role is essential for the team's success.This skill set is valuable in advertising, where creative collaboration is critical. You can help create a positive and productive work environment by sharing your insights on the importance of having a shared purpose and vision.

  • Insights Into How Tactics Align With Strategy: Strategic thinking is essential for any business, but it's especially important in advertising. The ad industry is about developing clever, innovative ways to sell products and services.Veterans are used to thinking strategically. In the military, you're constantly planning and preparing for different scenarios. You know how to set goals and develop actionable plans to achieve them.This skill set will be invaluable in advertising, where you'll need to develop creative campaigns that achieve specific objectives. Your tactics must align with your strategy to be successful.

Transitioning From the Military to Advertising:

While the advertising industry may be a good fit for Veterans, the transition can still be challenging. Here are some tips to help make the transition smoother:

  • Research the industry. Get to know the business's ins and outs before applying for jobs. This will help you understand what employers are looking for and give you an edge in the job market.

  • Network with people in the industry. Attend events, join professional organizations, and reach out to your contacts. The more connections you have, the easier it will be to find a job.

  • Highlight your skills. When applying for jobs, highlight the most relevant skills to the advertising industry. From your ability to think strategically to your experience with teamwork, these transferable skills will make you an asset to any agency, and if you have experience with specific software or platforms, be sure to include that on your resume.

  • Get a degree or certification. While not required, getting a degree or certification in advertising can be helpful. It will show employers that you're serious about your career and give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful.