So, you’ve got a new business in the works and you’re starting to think about the team you’ll put together. The people you choose to surround yourself with each day will play a critical role in the overall success of your business.
If you’re looking for individuals with a unique, diversified skill set and rock-solid work ethic, then you should consider turning to US military veterans. Below the Nashville Voice has provided more details on why hiring veterans is an excellent idea, as well as some pointers on how to find and attract veterans to your company.
Know the Benefits
To run a successful business, you need a strong team. There are some key qualities that a US veteran can add to your operation that will boost your chances of growth and flourishing.
For one, veterans often possess a remarkable number of transferable skills. A few of these skills include the ability to work well with team members from varying backgrounds, perform well under pressure, make sound decisions, and solve a wide range of problems.
Most veterans also understand the value of the team as a whole. Rarely will they seek full credit for team accomplishments or put other employees down. With respect for the importance of each person’s role, a veteran is likely to stay dedicated to a bigger purpose than themselves and help lead team members through adversity. Furthermore, from day one, military members are trained to be adaptable; veterans possess the instinct, resilience, and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving business environment.
Set Up an LLC
When your business is at the place where you’re ready to hire, you’ll need to determine which legal structure will prove most favorable to your goals. Many small businesses operate as an LLC because of liability protection, tax benefits, and other factors. If you want to register an LLC in Tennessee, become versed in the state’s regulations and hire an online service to do the legwork.
Attract Through Job Descriptions
The most practical way to attract veterans to your business is to write job descriptions that will appeal to them. If the position is relevant to the expertise of a veteran, the description should emphasize the job’s responsibilities and illustrate how a veteran’s knowledge and skill set are applicable and transferable to the position. Moreover, learn about the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes and how your available positions relate to them.
Use Available Resources
Along with utilizing MOS codes in your job descriptions, take advantage of other resources that can help you find qualified veteran candidates. The Hiring Our Heroes program, Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), Employer Resource Center (Military.com), and U.S. Department of Labor all provide resources to help employers recruit and retain veterans. And don’t forget to check with the Nashville Chamber of Commerce to see how we can help!
Conduct Effective Interviews
Once you’ve attracted a veteran candidate, it’s important to conduct a great interview. Don’t ask about the details of their discharge, as it could be interpreted as an inquiry of their mental state (i.e. whether they have PTSD or another type of mental illness). Instead, focus your questions on what relevant knowledge, skills, and experience they possess for the position, and then ask them why they believe they are the right candidate.
US veterans can prove to be an invaluable addition to any small business team. They typically have many transferable skills to offer and are exceptionally dependable. As you’re putting together your team, be sure to form an LLC, tailor your job descriptions to attract veterans, and use all the resources at our disposal. Lastly, learn the art of interviewing veterans, and you’ll be well on your way to building a team to be reckoned with.
