Supporting Military Veterans, Creating Wellness Initiatives

Posted on November 1, 2023

As organizations strive for diversity and inclusion in their workforce, it's essential to recognize the valuable contributions that military veterans can make to a company's success. These individuals bring unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. However, to fully harness their potential, companies must create supportive environments that help veterans seamlessly transition into civilian work life. One effective way to achieve this is by establishing wellness initiatives tailored to veterans' needs. We'll explore strategies to support military veterans in the workplace, including creating veteran resource groups, mentorship programs, onboarding processes, and flexible accommodations.

Creating a Veteran Resource Group or Veteran Mentorship Program

Military veterans can find invaluable support through resource groups and mentorship programs in the journey toward a successful civilian career. These initiatives bring forth a multitude of advantages. Studies reveal that veterans employed at organizations offering resource groups or veteran mentorship programs tend to enjoy higher professional satisfaction. Here's how companies can implement these programs effectively:

• Establishing Resources for Veterans: Create a resource directory about employee assistance programs, mental health support, and other relevant services. Ensure they know how to access these resources if needed. Companies can also create a group for veterans. This group can serve as a valuable community for veterans within the organization. It provides a platform for sharing experiences, networking, and addressing everyday challenges. Companies should encourage veterans to lead these groups to ensure their perspectives are accurately represented. 
• Creating a Veteran Mentorship Program: Pairing newly hired veterans with experienced employees can be immensely beneficial. Mentors can help veterans navigate the corporate landscape, understand company culture, and offer guidance on career development. This mentorship can foster a sense of belonging and accelerate veterans' integration into the workforce.

Implementing an Onboarding Program Specifically for Veterans

Military veterans bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the workplace, but their transition to civilian employment can be challenging due to differences in terminology and processes. To facilitate a smoother onboarding process, companies should:

• Translate Military Skills: Help veterans translate their military skills and experiences into civilian terms. Show them how their military expertise is relevant to their new roles. Ensure that all company materials explain terms that may be unfamiliar to veterans; this includes HR documents, benefits packages, and company policies. Providing veterans with a glossary of common corporate terms can be helpful.
• Offer Comprehensive Training: Offer training sessions that bridge the gap between military and civilian work environments. This might include sessions on communication styles, workplace norms, and conflict resolution. Develop a comprehensive onboarding program that covers essential topics like healthcare plans, benefits, and retirement options. Veterans may be accustomed to military healthcare. Clear explanations and guidance are crucial to help them make informed decisions.

Supporting Veterans Where They Are in Their Journey

Recognizing that veterans have unique life experiences and challenges is essential for creating a truly inclusive workplace. To provide meaningful support, employers should:

• Practice Flexibility: Veterans, especially wounded veterans, may have external obligations such as medical appointments or therapy sessions. Instead of categorizing this time as sick leave, consider offering flexible working arrangements, such as remote work, if the job allows. This flexibility demonstrates a commitment to accommodating veterans' needs.
• Offer Counseling and Access to Resources: Lean on veterans' service organizations specializing in career counseling. These organizations often provide valuable resources and guidance for both veterans and employers. Partnering with such organizations can help companies navigate the nuances of hiring and supporting veterans effectively.

Creating a supportive workplace for military veterans is a matter of corporate responsibility and a smart business move. By implementing veteran resource groups, mentorship programs, tailored onboarding processes, and flexible accommodations, companies can ensure that veterans join the workforce and thrive. These initiatives help veterans seamlessly transition into civilian life, capitalize on their unique skills, and contribute to the organization's success.

How can your organization develop and implement effective wellness initiatives specifically tailored to support the unique needs and experiences of military veterans in the workplace?