In today’s ever-changing market, fostering inclusivity and diversity is not only important morally, but also serves as a strategic advantage. As we support charities for veterans and honor our veterans in America, it is important to acknowledge the unique perspectives, skills, and experiences they bring to our workplace as they face numerous challenges in today’s modern world.
Challenges Veterans Face.
Veterans face many challenges. Apart from the traumatic impacts of war, they can also experience the following issues:
- Difficulty in accessing resources – Research shows that many veterans are unable to access the available services, benefits, and resources they need, as they don’t know where to get support.
- Behavioral and mental health problems – The majority of vets are diagnosed with either depression, anxiety, PTSD, or SUD.
- Marital and familial issues – It is reported that many vets experience some kind of problem at home, including: feeling like a guest in the household, feeling disconnected from their kids, being unable to get child custody, being uncertain about the role they play in the family, and marital strife, among others.
- Food insecurity – Former service members report experiencing low levels of food security after leaving military camps.
- Homelessness – About 15% of the homeless population in America consists of veterans.
- Financial stress – Some vets report having issues paying their bills several years, or even months after being out of service.
Empowering and Enriching Veterans in the Workplace.
Considering their tendency not to divert from protocols or ask questions, veterans should be introduced to different opportunities where they can demonstrate their skills in the workplace. According to non-profit organizations, like Wounded Warriors Family Support, it doesn’t necessarily need to be a huge project. Just giving them a chance to express how they can change the process can make vets feel a little more engaged. Other ways you can achieve that may include the following:
1. Promote Internal Communication.
This is an important aspect that can help you build any form of culture in an organization. In relation to establishing a veteran-based organization, corporate communication, which highlights topics of importance, will help to relay a crucial message that your company prioritizes former militants. This may include: acknowledging former service offers in the organization, forming a Q&A session with internal vet workers, and celebrating military holidays.
2. Empower Conversations Concerning Mental Wellness.
Normalize the occurrence of empowering conversations regarding mental health, which fosters trust and connection. For instance, if vets share any experience, you may ask thoughtful questions, show interest in understanding their own journey, and actively engage in a conversation. This gesture will give a sense of validation, appreciation, and emotional support while building camaraderie and trust.
3. Provide Supportive Programs.
Consider implementing initiatives like mentorship programs, vet affinity groups, and networking opportunities to support veterans to adjust to civilian life as well as help them grow professionally. In addition, give access to skill training, educational programs, and career counseling to help them advance their careers and gain new skills.
4. Retain Veteran Workers.
Once you successfully onboard vets, it will be a challenge to retain them as well as ensure they contribute to the success of your organization. This requires pro active strategies to support the transition, including: providing opportunities for professional advancement/development, offering mentorship programs, and giving access to support/counseling services. You can also retain vet workers by fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie in the workplace. This way, you will make veterans feel more engaged and valued for the roles they play in the organization.
In conclusion, empowering and enriching vets in a workplace is not all about filling roles with the most qualified candidates. It also involves recognizing and nurturing their potential in the country they serve. By understanding their unique needs and skills, you may create a suitable environment where they can thrive.
