Workshop offers military veterans job-seeking skills
After 18 years in the U.S. Army, Ronnie Johnson discovered that a lot has changed about searching for jobs in the civilian world.
First and foremost, employers usually want job seekers to apply online.
“Back in my day, you went down to a business and filled out an application,” Johnson said. “It’s an adjustment, learning the terminology and how to take all the skills you developed in the military and transition them into the civilian world.”
That’s why Johnson gathered with other military veterans or active military members at UNT Health Science Center for a free job search training workshop led by Steve Sosland, a West Point graduate and Chief People Officer in the UNTHSC Office of People Development.
During the two-hour workshop, Sosland led discussions on subjects chosen by attendees, including how to formulate a job interview strategy, prepare for critical interview questions, make a lasting impression on the interviewer, and formulate impressive questions to ask potential employers.
Sosland, who served as a U.S. Army officer from 1980 to 1991, said that he often he sees military veterans undervalue the skills and experience they developed in the military, or go to job interviews unprepared to explain how they would fit into an organization.
Several talent acquisition representatives from North Texas companies also attended the event, which was offered by North Texas Leaders and Executives Advocating Diversity. The organization strives to make North Texas the destination of choice for diverse talent by breaking stereotypes and encouraging employers to reach out to every segment of the community.
UNTHSC President Dr. Michael Williams is a member of the North Texas LEAD Board of Directors.
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