Brian Poole gained experience in the U.S. Army in operations management, logistics and human resources – skills, he later realized, that would be valued in a civilian career. Poole now oversees personal, administrative, military, and family and medical leaves at Wells Fargo. He offers these tips for other veterans transitioning to the corporate world:
- Have an open mind when you make the initial transition to civilian life. You might not get the exact job you want, but it will help build on your background and experiences.
- Help prospective employers see the connections between your strengths and their needs by explaining how your military career experience directly relates to the open position.
- Don’t have tunnel vision about what you did or what your rank was in the military. Be open to a variety of civilian career opportunities that interest you.
Related: Check out the Military Skills Translator to match your military experience to current job openings at Wells Fargo.
- Focus on your professional development and set career goals for yourself.
- Take on new, uncomfortable tasks so you can become better at what you do -- both during your service and when you are in a corporate job.
Poole added: “For managers, when hiring from the military, use a ‘total person’ approach. Don’t just look at what someone’s job was in the military. Carefully consider candidates’ skills and ability to adapt to change. Keep an open mind and look for connections.”
Sponsored: Wells Fargo supports veterans transitioning from military service with a variety of job options, confidential resources, educational information, and career guidance.
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