Underemployment is a persistent issue for many in the military community, and while we’re determined to put an end to it, there’s still plenty of work to do.
To get a real sense of how veterans in our network are grappling with this issue, Ben, the founder and CEO of Redeployable, asked over 100 veterans if they feel underemployed. The results were clear — a lot needs to change.
Let’s take a deeper dive into underemployment and give you some actionable tips to ensure it doesn’t happen to you.
What actually is underemployment?
Underemployment happens when your job doesn’t match your skills. You're essentially underutilised in your role, stuck doing tasks that don’t tap into your full potential.
The reality is, veterans have exceptional skills, but often, the civilian job market doesn’t see it that way. Take the findings from Deloitte’s Veterans Work research, for example. It shows that only 66% of large and medium-sized organisations recognise veterans for their communication skills—yet, we know that this is one of the key strengths military veterans bring to the table.
The problem is, there’s a mismatch between the skills veterans have and the way companies perceive those skills. That’s a gap we’re determined to close by guiding and educating employers on the value of hiring military talent.
What did our network have to say?
We asked over 100 veterans if they felt underemployed in their civilian careers. The result: more than 38% said they do. No surprises there.
The military gives you a solid foundation in both hard and soft skills—skills that are highly adaptable to civilian workplaces. Veterans are leaders, communicators, problem-solvers, and all-around dedicated individuals who work well under pressure. That’s why, according to Deloitte, more than half of organisations that have hired veterans say they tend to get promoted faster than other employees.
So why don’t more veterans land leadership roles after leaving service? (read this article on leadership)
Why Do Veterans Feel Underemployed?
We spoke to some veterans who responded to our survey to get their thoughts. Here’s a few reasons why they feel underemployed:
“My skill set was not properly utilised. I believe this is down to a lack of understanding from employers about the autonomous nature of ranks. There's a belief that we just do what we’re told, when in reality, we’re problem-solvers who get the job done by whatever means necessary.”
Military personnel are autonomous decision-makers. They thrive under pressure, make informed decisions quickly, and think on their feet. So if you’re an employer who thinks a veteran is just ‘following orders’—think again.
“There needs to be a greater understanding of the free-thinking, problem-solving ability that veterans bring to the table.”
Our advice? Shout about it. Don’t just say you’re a decision-maker—show examples on your CV of when you’ve had to make big calls. Show how your military experience is a key part of who you are in the civilian workforce.
“I’ve recently gone back to higher education to gain qualifications that civilian employers understand.”
Sometimes, underemployment is a strategic choice. Many veterans opt for entry-level roles to gain civilian qualifications or build skills in a new sector. Don’t feel like you’re failing if you’re using this time to develop further.
How to Avoid Underemployment: Practical Tips
Right now, some sectors are facing major skills shortages—particularly in technology and management. Guess what? Those skills are all standard with a military background. Whether it’s leadership, strategy, or problem-solving, you’ve got them covered. Plus, if you’ve got hard skills like programming, engineering, or development, you're in demand.
Here’s how to make sure you’re not leaving those skills on the shelf:
1. Own Your Skills:You’ve gone through rigorous training and earned trade-specific qualifications. Make sure you show these off. Talk about them in interviews. Put them front and centre on your CV. Military experience often means working internationally with allies. That adaptability and collaborative teamwork? It’s worth its weight in gold. Put real-world examples front and centre when you talk about your skills.
2. Show You’re Always Growing:Many veterans continue to develop after they leave service—whether it’s through management courses, technical qualifications, or higher education. If you’re keeping up with professional training, shout about it. It shows you’ve got ambition. If you didn’t continue your training right away? No problem. From our own experiences and from working with veterans, we know that a continual cycle of learning and upskilling is vital. It’s a mindset the military instils in you. So, if you’ve been taking steps to improve, talk about it.
3. Prove You Can Handle the Heat:Remember those performance evaluations you had to deal with in the forces? They weren’t easy. But they proved you can perform under pressure, under scrutiny, and when the stakes are high. Employers love this. It shows your competence and professionalism, and it’s a trait that civilian employers struggle to find.
Finding the Right Role for You
It’s tempting to chase after big-name companies because they seem safe and familiar, but that doesn’t always translate to job satisfaction. Take a step back and think about what really excites you. What kind of work culture do you want to be a part of? Where will your skills be valued?
Small and medium-sized businesses often appreciate your military experience more than you think—and they’re usually more agile, offering quicker opportunities for growth and progression.
Tom’s Tips for the First 12 Months Post-Service
Tom recently transitioned from the Army to Redeployable, and here’s his advice for service leavers looking to land their perfect role:
Month 1-3: Get Your Bearings
Start with a self-assessment. Think about what you don’t want as much as what you do want. Here are some things to consider:
- Minimum salary: What do you need to live comfortably?
- Location and travel: Do you need to commute, or are remote roles your thing?
- Working pattern: Are you okay with a rigid 9-to-5, or are you after more flexibility?
- Type of work: Do you prefer a big team or a smaller, more agile company?
Month 4-6: Get Out There
Attend transition events and network like mad. LinkedIn is your best friend, and don’t forget to use it. Enrol in any courses or certifications that’ll up your game. (And yes, sign up to Redeployable while you’re at it—we’ve got some cool stuff coming that’ll help you!)
Month 7-9: Sharpen Your Profile
Refine your personal brand. Update your CV, make sure your LinkedIn profile is top-notch, and start engaging with industry content. This is also a good time to look for part-time work or internships. You never know where it could lead (just ask Tom).
If you want Tom's advice in more detail check out this article.
Month 10-12: It’s Go Time
Start applying for roles, practice your interview techniques, and lean on your growing network for job referrals and tips. Remember, if you land in a role that’s not quite the one for you, it’s not the end of the world. Many people take time to find the right fit. Stay focused and keep moving forward.
And if you're not yet using Redeployable's AI-powered career guidance—why wait? Get started today and access the tailored advice and resources you need to unlock your full potential. Try it here.
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