Today, on Veteran’s Day, we reflect on the ways organizations can effectively recognize and address the needs of veterans in the workplace. Veterans bring a wealth of experience and unique strengths, from resilience and adaptability to strong leadership and a team-oriented mindset. Ultimately, this makes them valuable contributors to any organization. Here’s how you can better support veterans and leverage these strengths.

Understanding Veteran Needs

To understand the specific needs of veterans, a targeted approach to gathering information is essential:

• Surveys and Assessments: Use employee surveys and structured assessments to gauge veterans’ job satisfaction, mental health, and workplace adjustment needs. These tools can reveal insights into areas where additional support may be necessary.
• Focus Groups: Engage veterans in focus groups to discuss their experiences, allowing them to share perspectives on what’s working and where improvements could be made.
• Veteran Resource Groups (VRGs): For larger organizations, these internal groups foster a supportive community and provide a platform for veterans to voice their needs and connect with mentors. They are great for understanding veteran needs in an organic fashion.

How to Foster a Veteran-Friendly Workplace

Supporting veterans goes beyond hiring; it’s about creating an environment that values their contributions and addresses their unique needs. Leveraging data gathered from one or more of the aforementioned approaches for evaluating veteran needs, below are some ideas that you can consider implementing and tweaking based on veterans’ needs within your respective organization. 

• Customized Training Programs: Provide veterans with tailored onboarding programs and ongoing training programs that bridge their military experience with your organization’s culture and expectations.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Pair new veteran employees with those who have transitioned successfully, offering guidance and helping them navigate the workplace.
• Clear Mission and Purpose: Many veterans are drawn to roles with a clear sense of purpose. Communicate your organization’s mission to align with values that resonate with veterans.

How CMA Global Can Help

Recognizing and addressing the needs of veterans not only supports their career growth but also strengthens your organization. At CMA Global, we specialize in diagnosing organizations and building strategies to integrate employees, including veterans, more effectively into the workplace.

Get in touch with us to learn how we can help you build a veteran-friendly workplace that benefits everyone involved.