Military Employment Guide: Networking for Military & Veterans

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networking military veterans

Step-by-Step Guide to Employment: Networking for Military & Veterans

As a job seeker looking for your first job after leaving the military , networking is an important part of the process. There are different ways to network, from hearing about job opportunities from people you know to attending networking events and job fairs. No two events are exactly alike, but they have many things in common that will help you prepare.

Job fairs and networking events are a way for employers and job seekers alike to put faces to names and have more up-close-and-personal interaction beyond job listings and resumes.

Virtual Networking Events

Virtual events are more common now than they have ever been. A virtual networking event means you can log in from your own home. This allows you to attend events all over the US or even the world.

  • Virtual events require the use of computer—or phone-based audio and video. Participants may talk one-on-one or in a group setting.
  • Make sure to test your camera, and that your internet connection is reliable.
  • Be prepared to upload your resume to the job fair official site.
  • Plan to log on early and plan out your time at the event. You may have different options for where to spend your time.
  • Be sure to check about app-specific requirements before the event. You may need to install a new application or software to participate.
  • Virtual events may have high demand. Be sure to connect early. If you are not working from home, find the most stable connection you can.
  • When adding a virtual job fair to your calendar, be mindful of time zone differences.

Next Step: Virtual Job Fairs for Military and Veterans

In-person Networking Events

In-person networking events can be local-based, which is a plus if you are looking for a job in your local area. They can also be a good way to connect with companies that offer nationwide jobs.

  • If attending in person, decide your goals for the day. Know what you want to get out of the event. There are networking opportunities, as well as chances to interview for a new job.
  • Plan your outfit as if you are going to a job interview. You want to make a good first impression.
  • Find events that align with your goals and match your desires.
  • Go into the event planning to meet people and establish relationships with potential employers and business partners. Through these relationships, you should be able to find opportunities or potential opportunities.
  • If the networking event offers a career fair, you will be able to meet with employers, recruiters, and schools. Some employers could recruit for specific jobs on that day, and others could promote their information.
  • Know and rehearse your elevator pitch. You will need it. Your elevator pitch should be around 30 seconds and highlight your skills, goals, and what you seek. Prepare and practice before the event.
  • Prepare your LinkedIn ahead of time. Add people from the event, and make sure your profile is complete and filled in. Once you connect with people, you can further connect with them on LinkedIn to continue your networking experiences.
  • Bring enough resumes. Make sure the resume is updated and ready to go. Business cards are also important. Put everything in a professional-looking folder or binder.

Next Step: In-Person Job Fairs for Military and Veterans

After the Event

The real work begins after you leave the crowded hall. Effective follow-up is the key to turning those fleeting interactions into genuine opportunities. Don’t let those business cards languish in your bag. As soon as possible, ideally that evening or the next morning, organize them.

Some use a spreadsheet to log each new business card or contact. Include their name, company, role, and any key details you discussed. Be sure to add any notes about your impressions and any specific follow-up actions you promised.

Within 24-48 hours, send a thank-you note or email to each recruiter or hiring manager you spoke with. These notes should be concise but personalized. To jog their memory, mention something specific you discussed during your conversation.

If you promised to send your resume, portfolio, or other materials, do so promptly. Attach them to your thank-you email or send a separate, follow-up message. If you discussed a specific job opening, reiterate your interest and highlight how your skills and experience align with the requirements.

It’s smart to research the companies you’re interested in. Explore their websites, recent news, and social media presence. This helps you tailor your communication and demonstrate genuine interest in an employer. Remember that mentioning specific company initiatives or projects shows you’ve done your homework–you are not just email-blasting people you don’t know.

Recruiters are often inundated with applications after job fairs. Don’t expect an immediate response. If you haven’t heard back in two weeks, consider a polite follow-up email, but don’t be too persistent or demanding.

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