A resume might be the most important component of your job search, so you need to get it right. For veterans, there are specific pitfalls to avoid including acronyms and jargon and not replicating your OERs in your qualifications. Whether you're still in service or already job searching, keep these tips in mind to get your resume recruiter ready.

1. 7 Common Military-to-Civilian
Resume Mistakes
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2. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #1: A resume written in language
only a fellow service member could appreciate
• From jargon to acronyms, it’s best to put your resume in
language a civilian can appreciate. Where
appropriate, include civilian translations for military titles
and experience.

3. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #2: A resume filled with vague
accomplishments
• For veterans, in particular, it’s important to highlight
leadership achievements and specific accomplishments.
You might have been low on the chain of command but
be specific about projects you oversaw and use strong
language and specific milestones (including numbers).

4. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #3: A resume that lacks direction
• You might not know exactly what you want to do out of
uniform but your resume should speak to some area of
expertise and ideal position. Draft several resumes for
different careers if you plan on applying for a variety of
positions.

5. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #4: A resume that goes overboard
on education and training
• The military offers a variety of training programs. Only
highlight those that pertain to the career path you’re
pursuing, and avoid listing lower level classes if you’re
already including an advanced course.

6. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #5: A resume that is too short or
too long
• Your resume should be concise, visually appealing and
include the highlights of your career the hiring manager
needs to know. Don’t think in terms of one page or two
pages – draft a resume that works for your career.

7. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #6: A resume that sounds a little
too perfect
• Your resume should be your words – not the
regurgitation of your last OER or a copy and paste of the
required skills and qualifications.

8. Veteran Resume Mistakes
Mistake #7: Using military grammar rather
than what your English teacher taught you
• The military has its own conventions concerning
capitalization, punctuation and grammar – be sure
you’re not using them in your resume. Stick with proper
grammar rules.

9. Read more at http://www.clearancejobs.com/cleared-
news/259/7-common-military-to-civilian-resume-mistakes
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