CV Writing & Interview Preparation for Ex-Military
CV writing and interview preparation for ex-military personnel. Get expert guidance to create a standout CV, showcase transferable skills, and succeed in your civilian job search.
One of the first things you need to focus on when in resettlement and starting your civilian job search, is how to create the best CV to showcase your unique skills and experience. Getting the right ex-military CV help is one of the best ways to show employers your value. A strong CV bridges the gap between your Forces background and civilian work, highlighting the transferable skills employers really want. But where do you start? Troopr has the answers!
How to Translate Military Service on a CV
You might have led teams under pressure, managed million-pound equipment, or coordinated operations most civilians couldn’t imagine — but to an employer, it can sound like a foreign language.
The secret? Translate your military experience into plain, powerful, civilian-friendly language.
Your time in uniform has given you leadership, resilience, strategy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that most employers are crying out for. But if you’re still using military jargon, those strengths might be getting lost in translation.
Instead, focus on what you did, why it mattered, and the results you delivered. For example:
A Warrant Officer could frame their experience as a Department Manager or Team Leader.
A Submarine Intrusion Analyst might describe their skills in cybersecurity, systems management, and secure communications.
Once you learn to tell your story in a way employers instantly understand, doors start to open.
Click here to out more about how to translate you military skills.
Top Transferable Military Skills Employers Value
Veterans bring a wealth of transferable skills that employers actively seek. From leadership and teamwork to problem-solving, discipline, technical expertise and project management, military experience develops capabilities that directly add value in civilian workplaces. The key is learning how to present these skills in clear, employer-friendly language.
Leadership and teamwork – leading people, working under pressure, supporting colleagues.
Discipline and reliability – showing up, getting the job done, sticking to high standards.
Problem-solving and adaptability – staying calm in fast-changing situations.
Technical know-how – IT systems, engineering, logistics, communications.
Project management – planning, coordinating, delivering on time.
These transferable skills from the military are what employers are looking for; the trick is to phrase them in their language.
Search for Forces-Friendly Organisations.
Ex-Military CV Writing Tips to Stand Out to Employers
Veterans bring a wealth of transferable skills that employers actively seek. From leadership and teamwork to problem-solving, discipline, technical expertise and project management, military experience develops capabilities that directly add value in civilian workplaces. The key is learning how to present these skills in clear, employer-friendly language.
Leadership and teamwork – leading people, working under pressure, supporting colleagues.
Discipline and reliability – showing up, getting the job done, sticking to high standards.
Problem-solving and adaptability – staying calm in fast-changing situations.
Technical know-how – IT systems, engineering, logistics, communications.
Project management – planning, coordinating, delivering on time.
These transferable skills from the military are what employers are looking for; the trick is to phrase them in their language.
To get started, our partner SaluteMyJob offers a clear and practical CV template designed with veterans in mind.
Free CV Workshops and Services for Ex-Forces
Not sure where to begin? Many organisations run CV workshops for ex-forces personnel. These sessions help you practise, get feedback, and see examples of what a winning CV looks like. They can also help with confidence and preparation for interviews.
Explore free workshops for Veterans.
Interview Preparation Tips for Veterans
Employers may ask about your time in the Forces, but they’ll want to hear how that connects to the role you’re applying for. Typical interview questions for veterans could include:
How do you work in a team?
Can you give an example of solving a problem under pressure?
What motivates you outside of the military?
Practising civilian-style answers, using real examples, will make a huge difference.
Read more in our blog, CV Writing & Interview Prep for Veterans: Your Skills Are in Demand.
FAQs: Ex-Military CV Writing & Job Hunting
How do I translate my military experience into civilian terms?
Focus on the outcomes of your work. Instead of listing your rank or posting, explain the skills you used – leadership, planning, communication – and link them to civilian examples.
What transferable skills from the military are most valued by employers?
Employers often look for leadership, reliability, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Technical skills and qualifications can also stand out.
How do I explain military jargon in my CV?
Keep it simple. Swap terms like “Sergeant” for “Team Leader” or “Operations Manager.” Always choose language a civilian recruiter will understand.
How do I prepare for civilian job interviews as a veteran?
Practice is key. Use civilian examples where possible, and link your military achievements to the requirements in the job description.
Are there free CV-writing services for ex-military personnel in the UK?
Yes. Organisations like the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), RFEA, and various Forces charities provide free CV advice and support for veterans. You can find more details in Troopr’s directory.
Making the leap from service to civilian work can feel daunting, but with the right guidance, your experience becomes a real asset. By focusing on transferable skills, using clear language, and getting feedback, you’ll create a strong CV that opens doors. If you’re looking to get started today, don’t hesitate to seek ex-military CV help – it could be the key to your next career move.
