The PenFed Foundation is proud to support The Military Veteran (TheMilVet) in helping both entrepreneurs and veterans navigate the interview process. Hiring the right people is one of the most critical decisions an entrepreneur can make. For veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce, interviews can feel unfamiliar, but the skills and leadership they bring are unmatched. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to hire top talent or a veteran preparing for your next opportunity, here’s how to ace the interview process.
For Entrepreneurs: How to Interview and Hire Veterans
Veterans bring discipline, adaptability, and leadership to any team, but traditional interviews may not always highlight their full potential. Here’s how to structure a great interview:
✔️ Focus on transferable skills. Many veterans may not have direct industry experience but have leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that translate across sectors. Ask behavioral questions to uncover their adaptability and leadership.
✔️ Understand military experience. Titles and job functions in the military don’t always match civilian roles. Take time to understand how their responsibilities apply to your business.
✔️ Ask for real-world examples. Veterans excel under pressure and in fast-moving environments. Ask them about a time they led a team, solved a complex problem, or adapted quickly to change.
✅ Example Question: “Tell me about a time you had to make a critical decision under pressure. How did you handle it?”
For Veterans: How to Nail Your Interview
Interviews are your chance to bridge the gap between military experience and civilian job expectations. Here’s how to stand out:
✔️ Translate your experience. Instead of military jargon, explain your roles in terms of leadership, operations, and problem-solving. Highlight how your skills align with the company’s needs.
✔️ Prepare for behavioral questions. Many companies use “Tell me about a time when…” questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure clear, impactful answers.
✔️ Do your research. Learn about the company, its culture, and the role. Be ready to ask thoughtful questions about team dynamics, leadership, and expectations.
✅ Example Question to Ask: “How does this company support leadership development and professional growth?”
The Right Fit Goes Both Ways
✔️ For Entrepreneurs: Veterans bring skills that are hard to teach—leadership, discipline, and adaptability. Approach the interview with an open mind and look for potential beyond industry experience.
✔️ For Veterans: You’ve already proven your ability to lead, adapt, and execute under pressure. Now it’s about translating that experience into business terms and finding a company that aligns with your values.
🔗 Check out The Military Veteran job board here: