I don’t know why so many people take an issue with hiring Veterans. I never understood why Veterans have to have a special place for employment advocacy in the media. Veterans make great employees. They’re prompt, responsible, they know how to handle and resolve conflict, and they’re self-starters. You don’t have to micro manage Veterans. This said, I found it puzzling the San Diego Voice had to promote an article reflecting the $5 million dollars set aside to help companies hire Veterans. Why? Veterans should always be provided with extra and priority consideration when it comes to work. Don’t get me wrong- I’m glad the money is allocated. I just wish we appreciated our Veterans as much as we should.
The article went on to state, “The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of up to $5 million to fund 16 or more Homeless Female Veterans and Veterans with Families grants. Approximately 1,900 veterans will receive job training and related services to help them succeed in civilian careers.”
If you’re thinking about hiring Veterans, and you should be, some of the benefits being offered by the government may apply to you. Don’t be shy, if you think the money can help your business grow and employ a Veteran- take advantage of it.The solicitation for grant applications is available at http://www.grants.gov. Potential applicants seeking more information should visit http://www.dol.gov/vets or contact grants officer Cassandra Mitchell at 202-693-4570.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ spring 2013 data indicate 9.2 percent unemployment among new veterans compared with 7.6 percent among non-vets. Hiring Veterans has become thought of as an act of charity. This is horrifying to me. Veterans bring real value to any employment situation. The act of hiring a Veteran shouldn’t be stigmatized as charity. In fact, it is a smart investment according to Derek Bennett of The Huffington Post. Bennett, who thinks the same way I do, recently wrote, ” It’s not uncommon for veterans in their early twenties to manage multi-million dollar budgets, challenging logistics, and dozens or even hundreds of their peers.” So, why are so many hiring managers and business owners thinking Veterans don’t bring anything of worth to the table? I’m beyond puzzled.
This Memorial Day take the time to remember those who served and died for our Country. And, consider hiring a Veteran – not out of charity, but out of the need to grow your company.