MFC
Awards
Our ratings program is developmental, meaning that it recognizes that it takes time to build a meaningful ratings program within an organization. Organizations can begin by taking a Pledge, then advance to full Designation and finally work to achieve Award level (Top 10, Gold, Silver and Bronze). Ratings are earned and are absolutely free to organizations.
Any employer which has no federal flags, pledges to establish a military recruiting program, and completes the annual assessment, can now earn Military Friendly “Awards” status. Employers can remain in Designation status till they reach a point where program benchmarks for awards are achievable. This allows employers sufficient time to gather data and implement processes necessary to compete for Military Friendly Awards.
What it Means
Criteria
The Military Friendly® Companies (MFC) Rating is a prestigious recognition that honors organizations demonstrating outstanding support and commitment to the military community. To qualify for the MFC rating, companies must designate in at least three of the four key segments: Military Friendly® Employers (MFE), Military Friendly® Spouse Employers (MSFE), Military Friendly® Supplier Diversity (MFSD), and Military Friendly® Brands (MFB).
Companies must meet the minimal Benchmarks, Qualifications, Eligibility Requirements and Compliance Standards :
Benchmarks,
Organizations must successfully complete the Military Friendly® Employers portion of the Military Friendly® Companies survey to verify that they meet at least three of the following benchmarks:
- New Hire Retention Rate for Veterans is greater than 50%.
- New Hire Retention for Veterans is higher than for Non-Military Employees.
- New Hire Retention Rate for Guard & Reserve Employees is greater than 50%.
- New Hire Retention for Veterans is higher than for Non-Military Employees.
- Military Employee Turnover is lower than for Non-Military Employees.
- Military Employee Turnover is less than 20%.
- Promotions and Advancements of Military Employees is higher than for Non-Military Employees.
- Percent of Military Applicants selected is higher than for Non-Military Applicants selected.
- Guard and Reserve policies exceed federal requirements.
- Encourages veterans and service members to self-identify through means that go beyond a survey or a voluntary self-id form.
Qualifications
To be eligible for the MFE rating, companies must meet the following qualifications:
- Explicit Commitment: Companies must pledge to serving the military and/or veteran community.
- Self-Identification Policies: Companies must have policies or practices that encourage veterans and service members to self-identify.
- Good Standing: Companies must be in good standing with federal agencies.
- No Outstanding Claims: Companies must not have or hold an outstanding claim(s) case or violation under investigation by the US Departments of Labor or Defense, or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
- No Debarment: Companies must never have been debarred from participation in federal contracting.
- No Recent Violations: Companies must not have been found in violation of veteran protections within the past 12 months.
Eligibility Requirements and Compliance Standards
The Military Friendly Employer Rating is awarded to companies that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting and advancing the careers of military service members and veterans. This rating is based on a comprehensive evaluation of the company’s policies, practices, and outcomes in six critical categories, each with specific weightings and maximum point allocations. To achieve the MFE rating, companies must meet or exceed a minimum total score and adhere to specific qualification criteria.
All companies must complete and pass a compliance check in order to be eligable.
All companies must complete the 16 question abridged survey and score a minimum of 900 Points or score above a 27.6 % on their overall score.
Methodology
Weightings & Methodology
The MFC Designation rating uses a point-based scoring system. Each segment has a minimum point threshold and contributes to the total score. Companies are scored by categories determined by revenue class. This methodology ensures a fair and comprehensive assessment of the company’s commitment and effectiveness in supporting military service members and veterans.
Scoring
The Military Friendly® Employers Awards Rating entails the lifecycle of military employees: What employers do to attract, hire, and develop them; as well as the policies and practices with which employers support them along the way. The weightings of each category within the components help to emphasize the areas most critical to military support, providing a clear and structured approach to the evaluation.
MFE Culture & Commitment ( 2685 points, 19%) – This category evaluates the company’s culture and overall commitment to the military and veteran community. Companies must demonstrate explicit pledges or commitments to supporting military service members and veterans through various initiatives, partnerships, and programs.
MFE Recruiting & Sourcing ( 3895 points, 8%) – This category assesses the effectiveness of the company’s recruitment and sourcing strategies in attracting military talent. Companies should have robust outreach programs and partnerships with military organizations to identify and recruit qualified veterans and service members.
MFE Hiring & Onboarding ( 1310 points, 9%) – This category focuses on the company’s hiring and onboarding processes. Companies should ensure smooth transitions for veterans entering the workforce, with practices that acknowledge and leverage military skills and experience.
MFE Support & Retention ( 2715 points, 28%) – This category examines the support systems and retention strategies in place for military employees. Companies should provide comprehensive support services, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities to ensure the long-term success and retention of veterans.
MFE Opportunity & Advancement ( 2450 points, 19%) – This category evaluates the opportunities for career advancement available to veterans within the company. Companies should promote veterans through the ranks and provide clear pathways for career growth.
MFE Policies & Compliance ( 1090 points, 17%) – This category assesses the company’s adherence to policies and regulations related to veteran employment. Companies must have policies that encourage veterans to self-identify and ensure compliance with federal standards protecting veteran rights.
MFE Awards ratings uses a point-based scoring system based on the company’s revenue threshold. Each category has a maximum point value and contributes to the total score. Companies must achieve a minimum point value based on their revenue threshold and award level to determine the MFE Award type. The methodology ensures a fair and comprehensive assessment of the company’s commitment and effectiveness iin military service members and veterans as employees.
Military Spouse Friendly Employer Rating recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in supporting military spouses across various categories. From fostering a supportive culture to providing opportunities for advancement, retaining talent, and ensuring compliance with policies and regulations, these designation highlight the commitment of organizations to create inclusive environments where military spouses can thrive personally and professionally. The Military Friendly® Spouse Employer survey provides an in-depth analysis of the employment lifecycle for military spouse employees. It examines how employers attract, hire, and develop these individuals, alongside the policies and practices that support them throughout their careers. In this survey, the term “Military Spouses” includes Spouses of active military personnel, veterans, and members of the Reserves/National Guard. Certain questions will reference partnerships and benefits available to military spouses.
MSFE Culture & Commitment ( 1250 points, 24%)
This category evaluates core values, initiatives, and policies shaping the organizational culture for this demographic, focusing on their effectiveness in creating a supportive environment. It assesses various aspects, from dedicated affinity groups to transition programs tailored for military spouses, aiming to promote inclusion within the workforce. By measuring the impact of these initiatives, we can gauges your company’s sincerity in fostering an environment where military spouses feel valued and supported.
MSFE Hiring & Onboarding (250 points, 6%)
This category assesses how companies welcome military spouses into their workforce. It evaluates the clarity of job postings targeting military spouses and the effectiveness of recruitment efforts. This includes participation in events and platforms frequented by military spouses. Tailored onboarding experiences are also evaluated to ease the transition for military spouse hires, reflecting the organization’s seamless integration and success within the company. It measures a company’s dedication to sourcing, selecting, and integrating military spouse talent effectively.
MSFE Support & Retention (1740 points, 40%)
This category examines strategies tailored to support and retain military spouses throughout their employment journey. It assesses programs like specialized support services and career development opportunities, aiming to ensure long-term success and well-being within the organization. It highlights the organization’s commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment where military spouses feel valued and empowered to contribute effectively.
MSFE Opportunity & Advancement ( 660 points, 15%)
This category evaluates career growth opportunities for military spouses. It assesses programs like specialized training, leadership development, and mentorship initiatives tailored for this demographic. Clear advancement pathways, based on merit and qualifications, are also considered. This category underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where military spouses feel supported and empowered to pursue their career goals.
MSFE Policies & Compliance ( 670 points, 15%)
This category focuses on policies impacting military spouses within organizations. It assesses the practical application and effectiveness of these policies in ensuring fair treatment, particularly regarding military leave and reemployment rights. Additionally, it evaluates the organization’s commitment to providing tailored training and development opportunities for military spouses to thrive in the workplace.
MFSD Support & Development (1710 points, 30%)
This category examines organizations’ commitment to supporting diverse suppliers within the military community. It evaluates initiatives providing substantive support and growth opportunities tailored to veteran-owned and military spouse-owned businesses. Evaluation considers programs’ impact, including resource provisions, mentorship, and sustainability initiatives. By recognizing companies investing in the success of diverse suppliers, this category aims to foster a more inclusive military community.
MFSD Goals & Outcomes (1800 points, 32%)
This category examines the clarity, achievability, and impact of their supplier diversity goals within the military community. It assesses the coherence between stated objectives and actual outcomes, focusing on measurable impact and progress tracking. Evaluators consider the clarity and feasibility of goals, alignment with realized outcomes, and progress tracking mechanisms. It aims to recognize companies translating commitments into actionable steps, fostering diversity and inclusion in their supplier networks, and empowering the military community economically.
MFSD Personnel & Infrastructure ( 1025 points, 18%)
This category evaluates the strength of their teams and infrastructure supporting supplier diversity efforts within the military community.It considers dedicated personnel, resources, and infrastructure aimed at driving diversity strategies and examines the presence of specialized personnel overseeing diversity initiatives and the adequacy of allocated resources. Additionally, it assesses the accessibility of technology platforms and support networks facilitating collaboration with diverse suppliers. This category acknowledges organizations prioritizing personnel and infrastructure development to advance supplier diversity, promoting inclusivity and resilience in their supplier base.
MFSD Processes & Controls ( 1110 points, 20%)
This category underscores organizations’ dedication to transparent and fair supplier diversity practices. This evaluation examines companies’ procurement processes, including supplier selection, evaluation, and contracting, assessing their transparency and adherence to industry best practices. The aim is to recognize organizations promoting supplier diversity through strong processes and controls, contributing to equitable economic empowerment within the military community.
MFB Culture & Commitment ( 900 points, 10%)
This category assesses brands’ commitment to corporate social responsibility for the military community. It evaluates support for military advocacy, community engagement, and tailored services. Brands are recognized for proactive outreach, affinity groups, and effective efforts to understand and address diverse military needs. Those honored in this category demonstrate tangible actions that positively impact the military community, setting a standard for inclusive practices and unwavering support.
MFB Policies & Governance ( 2026 Points, 21%)
This category assesses brands’ governance structures and policies are assessed for their alignment with corporate social responsibility principles and consumer protections for the military community. Evaluation includes proactive integration of military consumer advocacy and transparency in governance frameworks. Effective and inclusive military consumer programs are also evaluated. Recognized brands demonstrate a commitment to supporting the military community through transparent governance, advocacy policies, and inclusive programs.
MFB Transparency & Reporting ( 1335 Points, 14%)
Transparency is key for successful corporate social responsibility and military consumer advocacy. In our evaluations, we prioritize brands’ clear and accessible reporting mechanisms, which offer insights into their commitments and impact. Brands undergo rigorous assessment to ensure their reporting is detailed and accountable. This transparency fosters trust among stakeholders, empowering them to make informed decisions and support brands aligned with their values. Through transparent communication, brands demonstrate genuine support for the military community.
MFB Protections & Support ( 3100 Points, 32%)
In this category, we assess brands’ support for military-affiliated individuals, reflecting our commitment to honoring those who serve. Brands are evaluated based on their efforts to safeguard the rights and well-being of military consumers, including the availability and accessibility of support services. We also consider brands’ understanding of the unique challenges faced by the military community. By prioritizing the protection and support of military consumers, brands demonstrate corporate responsibility and honor the sacrifices of those who serve. Through robust policies and initiatives, brands can empower military-affiliated individuals to thrive in civilian life.
MFB Investment & Partnerships ( 2250 Points, 23%)
In our evaluation, brands are assessed for their active investment in initiatives supporting military consumer benefits and community involvement. We prioritize brands that prioritize the welfare of the military community, evaluating their engagement in various initiatives such as financial assistance, healthcare access, education support, and tailored employment opportunities. These efforts often involve partnerships with military organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies, enabling brands to address pressing issues and advocate for military consumer rights. Through strategic alliances, brands leverage collective resources to drive positive change within the military community.
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SUPPORT?
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