In a hiring landscape marked by fierce competition, skill shortages, and shifting workforce expectations, employers are under immense pressure to future-proof their talent strategies. One of the most underutilized yet highly impactful solutions? Veteran employment programs.
These programs, when executed intentionally and strategically, offer more than a feel-good initiative or a diversity checkbox. They are a proven workforce strategy that enhances talent acquisition outcomes, retention, and organizational resilience. For hiring managers, talent acquisition professionals, and brand marketers alike, understanding the value of veteran employment programs is no longer optional.
The Market Reality: Skilled Talent Is Scarce
According to ManpowerGroup’s 2023 Talent Shortage Survey, 77% of employers globally report difficulty filling roles, the highest in 17 years. Meanwhile, over 200,000 military service members transition to civilian life each year, bringing with them in-demand technical skills, leadership training, and real-world problem-solving abilities.
These individuals are pre-vetted for reliability, adaptability, and commitment—a hiring manager’s dream. Yet too many organizations fail to tap into this pipeline effectively.
Veteran Employment Programs: High ROI, Low Risk
SHRM reports that 68% of employers find veterans perform better than or much better than their non-veteran peers. Additionally, veterans tend to stay longer at their jobs, with the Call of Duty Endowment citing that veterans are twice as likely to stay in their first post-military job compared to their non-veteran counterparts.
Beyond performance and retention, employers that implement veteran employment programs may qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), providing financial incentives for hiring from this priority group.
A Strategic Advantage, Not Just a Social Good
Veteran employment programs also drive brand differentiation and alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities. According to LinkedIn’s Veteran Opportunity Report, underemployment among veterans remains at 15.6%, despite their extensive training and experience. Companies that proactively close this gap demonstrate a commitment to both equity and excellence.
When you create pathways for veterans to thrive, you build a workforce grounded in loyalty, agility, and mission-oriented thinking—traits that directly support business growth and innovation.
How Military Friendly® Adds Value
The Military Friendly® Talent Exchange connects employers to a proprietary database of verified military talent, including veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members. Unlike traditional job boards, the Talent Exchange is designed to streamline sourcing, improve cultural alignment, and enhance your employer brand across trusted military media platforms.
Military Friendly® is more than a badge—it’s an ecosystem that empowers you to:
- Gain visibility as an employer of choice
- Access 1st-party military audience data
- Leverage targeted media to attract and retain top talent
Final Thoughts: From Check-the-Box to Game-Changing Veteran Employment Programs
The employers who win the future will be those who innovate their hiring strategies now. Veteran employment programs aren’t just a compliance measure—they’re a strategic imperative. With the right tools, partnerships, and intent, veteran hiring can become one of your company’s strongest competitive advantages.
Military Friendly® is here to help you lead the way. If you are interested in learning more about the military audience, developing programs, and how you can tap into this renewable source of talent, connect with one of our Military Consulting Experts today >>> Schedule a Strategy Call
