Are you moving from a military career to civilian work? Don’t worry, many of the skills you developed in the military are valuable in civilian jobs and the corporate world.
Whether you’re transitioning to your first civilian job or looking for a new one, it's important to make connections between these different career worlds in a military-to-civilian CV. You need to describe how the skills and experiences you gained in military service apply to civilian roles.
In this article, we:
- Describe what a military-to-civilian CV is.
- Explain why a well-structured military-to-civilian CV is important.
- Reveal the key steps to craft a strong military-to-civilian CV.
- Plus, we’ve included four examples of military-to-civilian CVs for different situations and career stages, with explanations of each!
Career transitions are stressful, especially when you’re transitioning from the military because you need to translate your experience. Contact our career counselling service for help identifying and explaining transferable skills and qualifications in civilian terms on your military-to-civilian CV.
We’ve helped thousands of people succeed in their job search and are here to help you. Contact us about anything from CV writing and design to interview prep, contract negotiations, and any other questions you have about reaching your career goals.
Upload & Check Your CV
Drop your CV here or choose a file. PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.
Military-to-civilian CV explained
A military-to-civilian resume is tailored for people transitioning from a military career to a civilian one. It’s intended to communicate the transferable skills gained during military service in a way that civilian employers easily understand.
These CVs highlight leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and discipline qualifications gained during a military career. They also translate military terminology and jargon into familiar civilian language.
The aim is to bridge the gap between military experience and the requirements of civilian jobs. Presenting the skills and experiences gained during military service in civilian terms will increase your chances of successfully transitioning to the civilian workforce.
Importance of a well-structured CV when transitioning from the UK military
A move from the military to civilian work takes special consideration. A well-structured military-to-civilian CV is important for a few reasons:
Highlight transferable skills
A well-structured military-to-civilian CV will highlight your transferable hard and soft skills. It should be structured to help recruiters quickly identify the relevant skills for the role they’re looking to fill.
Present experience
A well-structured CV clearly presents your experience, including your military roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Formatting your experience logically helps potential employers understand the scope and impact of your work in the military.
Tailored for civilian roles
A military-to-civilian CV should also be tailored to show how your experience, skills, and qualifications match the requirements of the specific civilian role you’re applying for. By focusing on job-specific relevant background aspects, you can demonstrate your suitability for civilian employment.
Professional appearance
Finally, a good military-to-civilian CV layout reflects your professionalism and attention to detail. It shows that you have taken the time and effort to organise and present your information clearly, which will leave a positive impression on potential employers.
Tips for a successful military-to-civilian CV
A military-to-civilian CV is your opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and qualifications in a way that resonates with civilian employers. Follow these simple tips for the greatest impact:
Translate military language
Replace military jargon and acronyms with civilian terminology. Clearly describe your roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments using language employers outside the military can understand.
Highlight transferable skills
Emphasise how the skills you gained in the military are relevant to civilian jobs. Include specific examples of how you demonstrated these skills.
Customise for the Job
Tailor your resume for each specific job you apply to. Research the job requirements and use keywords from the job description to demonstrate suitability.
Focus on accomplishments
Instead of just listing job duties, highlight your achievements and the impact you made during your military service. Use action verbs and specific numbers or percentages to describe your accomplishments whenever possible.
Include civilian education and certifications
If you’ve earned any civilian diplomas or degrees, certifications, or training relevant to the job, include them in your resume. This education shows you’ve taken steps to enhance your skills beyond your military experience.
Volunteer and community involvement
Include any volunteer work or community involvement demonstrating your commitment, leadership, or relevant skills. This can help showcase your character and dedication outside of your military duties.
Ask for input
Don't hesitate to reach out to your network for insights and feedback on your resume. These outside perspectives can help you highlight your strengths and make your resume more impactful.
Review
Review and correct grammar, spelling, and formatting to ensure your CV is error-free and visually appealing. Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise sentences to make your resume easy to read and navigate.
Example Military to Civilian CVs
Entry-Level Army Applicant CV Example
John Smith
Contact Information: [address, phone number, email address]
Personal Statement
Highly motivated and disciplined individual with a strong desire to serve in the British Army. Demonstrated leadership abilities and teamwork skills from participating in various school sports teams and community volunteering activities. Physically fit, with a proven ability to perform under pressure.
Education
A-Level in Physical Education, History, and Mathematics, XYZ School, 2023
Skills and Abilities
- Excellent physical condition: Regular participant in marathons and fitness competitions.
- Strong team player: Captain of the school's football team, demonstrating leadership and collaboration.
- Effective communication skills: Regular public speaker at school events.
- Ability to follow orders accurately: Demonstrated through success in disciplined school environments.
References
- Available Upon Request
This military-to-civilian CV example highlights his motivation, discipline, leadership, teamwork, physical fitness, communication skills, and ability to follow orders. These qualities are respected and a strong foundation for many civilian roles.
The personal statement highlights the applicant’s high motivation level and ability to follow orders, which are important qualities for many employers.
The CV emphasises his leadership abilities and teamwork skills gained from participating on school sports teams and mentions, and also his effective communication skills. These qualities are in high demand in every professional role.
It also highlights the applicant's excellent physical condition through participation in marathons and fitness competitions. Demonstrating physical fitness would be an important quality in many civilian roles.
And this CV includes his education, mentioning his A-levels in physical education, history, and maths. This demonstrates a well-rounded academic background, which would benefit any non-military role.
Experienced Military Personnel CV Example
Jane Doe
Contact Information: [address, phone number, email address]
Personal Statement
Experienced military professional with five years of distinguished service in the British Army. Proven leadership skills, discipline, and commitment to duty. Skilled in security operations and team management. Seeking to leverage my experience in a challenging role in the military.
Military Experience
Sergeant, Infantry, British Army, 2018-2023
- Led a team of 15 soldiers in routine security patrols and exercises
- Received two commendations for exemplary service and leadership
- Trained new recruits in basic military procedures and protocol
Civilian Work Experience
Security Officer, XYZ Security Firm, 2016-2018
- Conducted regular security checks and patrols in a large corporate building
- Responded to security breaches and emergencies promptly and effectively
- Trained new security officers in company procedures and use of security equipment
Education
BSc in Security and Risk Management, University of Leicester, 2016
Skills and Abilities
- Leadership and team management: Proven through leading military and security teams
- High-level security operations: Experience in both military and civilian security
- Excellent physical condition: Regular participant in fitness training and competitions
- Clear and effective communication: Demonstrated through leadership roles and training others
References
Available upon request
This CV effectively showcases military experience, transferable skills, relevant civilian work experience, education, and key attributes. It demonstrates the applicant’s suitability for roles that ask for leadership, responsibility, physical fitness, and clear communication skills.
The personal statement effectively summarises her military experience. It leverages her experience in a challenging military role to highlight key professional attributes.
The CV demonstrates how she developed leadership abilities by mentioning her role as a team leader. And the two commendations she received for exemplary service and leadership are specifics that further emphasise and lend credibility to her capabilities.
Including civilian work experience demonstrates the applicant's ability to apply her skills in a non-military setting. The responsibilities mentioned highlight transferable skills applicable to various security-related roles.
The CV mentions the candidate's BSc in Security and Risk Management, which aligns with their military and civilian security experience. This educational background enhances their qualifications for certain positions and shows a commitment to professional development.
Army Officer CV Example
David Brown
Contact Information: [address, phone number, email address]
Personal Statement
Highly decorated Army Officer with over a decade of service in the British Army. Expert in strategic planning, team leadership, and operational execution. Proven ability to manage high-pressure situations and make critical decisions. Seeking to leverage my experience and skills in a challenging leadership role.
Military Experience
Lieutenant Colonel, Infantry, British Army, 2013-2023
- Oversaw strategic planning and execution for a regiment of 500 soldiers
- Led multiple successful missions in high-risk environments
- Received three medals for leadership and bravery in the field
Education
MA in Military History, King's College London, 2013
Skills and Abilities
- Strategic planning and execution: Proven through leading large-scale military operations
- Team leadership and management: Managed and motivated a regiment of 500 soldiers
- Excellent physical condition: Regularly engage in high-intensity military fitness training
- Language skills: Fluent in Arabic and French, enabling effective communication in diverse international contexts
References
Available upon request
This CV effectively presents the candidate's extensive military experience, leadership skills, strategic planning expertise, and educational background. It positions them as a strong candidate for challenging civilian leadership roles.
The personal statement presents the candidate's extensive military experience to highlight their expertise in strategic planning, team leadership, and operational execution. It emphasises their ability to handle high-pressure situations and make critical decisions.
The CV showcases experiences like leading successful missions in high-risk environments to highlight their leadership abilities. The strategic planning and execution skills gained from leading large-scale military operations further emphasise these qualities.
The CV mentions they received three medals for leadership and bravery in the field, measurably showcasing their recognised achievements, adding credibility to their skills and capabilities.
It also includes the candidate's MA in military history and their language skills in Arabic and French. This enhances their qualifications by demonstrating strong communication skills and commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Military to Civilian Transition CV Example
Sarah Williams
Contact Information: [address, phone number, email address]
Personal Statement
Highly resourceful and adaptable former military officer transitioning to civilian life. Proven leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills developed through a successful career in the British Army. Seeking to leverage these transferable skills in a corporate environment, with a particular interest in logistics and supply chain management.
Military Experience
Captain, Logistics Corps, British Army, 2015-2023
- Managed logistics for a division of 1,000 soldiers, ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of equipment and supplies
- Coordinated complex logistics for overseas deployments, including transportation, supply chain, and personnel movements
- Led a team of 50 logistics personnel, fostering teamwork, and maintaining high performance standards
Civilian Work Experience
Supply Chain Intern, XYZ Logistics Company, 2014
- Assisted in coordinating the supply chain for a large multinational company
- Helped to manage relationships with suppliers and transport companies
- Developed a new tracking system that improved the efficiency of the supply chain
Education
MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Cranfield University, 2014
Skills and Abilities
- Project and team management: Proven through leading military logistics operations and teams
- Supply chain and logistics expertise: Developed through military service and academic study
- Problem-solving and decision-making: Regularly faced and overcame complex logistical challenges in the military
- Communication and negotiation skills: Developed through managing relationships with diverse international partners
References
Available upon request
This CV effectively presents the candidate's military and civilian experience, educational background, and transferable skills. It positions them as a strong candidate for corporate logistics and supply chain management roles.
The personal statement effectively communicates the candidate's transition from the military to civilian life. It highlights their resourcefulness, adaptability, and transferable skills acquired during their military career.
The personal statement is supported by her listed experience, which showcases their specific interest and measurable expertise in logistics and supply chain management. It uses concrete, measurable examples to clearly identify a career direction they’re well-suited for.
Including civilian work experience as a supply chain intern adds value to the CV. It shows the candidate's practical experience coordinating supply chains and managing relationships with suppliers and transport companies.
The CV mentions the candidate's MSc in logistics and supply chain management. This educational background aligns with their career aspirations and demonstrates their commitment to gaining specialised knowledge.
Takeaways
- A military-to-civilian CV should be structured to identify relevant qualifications easily.
- Military terms must be explained so civilian recruiters understand their value.
- Include any non-military education or volunteer experience to highlight transferable skills.
- Use specific examples to add credibility to a military-to-civilian CV.
- Always tailor your CV to the specific civilian role targeted.
To successfully move from military service to a civilian career, you have to show employers how your unique experiences relate to their needs. Contact our career counselling service for help writing a military-to-civilian CV showing your qualifications for your target role.
We’ve helped thousands of people succeed in their job search and are here to help you. Contact us about anything from CV writing and design to interview prep, contract negotiations, and any other questions you have about reaching your career goals.
