Building Lasting Impact Beyond Veterans Day
Veterans Day may have passed, but supporting our local veterans is a year-round responsibility. In Sarasota, meaningful action doesn’t end on November 11; it begins there. Employment is one of the most powerful ways to honor those who served, yet many veterans still face challenges transitioning into civilian careers.
Whether you’re a business owner, HR leader, or community advocate, you can make a tangible difference. This guide outlines five actionable steps to help Sarasota employers recognize veteran talent, create veteran-friendly hiring practices, and foster long-term career success for those who served.
1. Employer Checklist: What to Look for When Hiring Veterans
Veterans offer valuable, transferable skills that are often missed in traditional hiring processes. Here’s what to recognize:
- Leadership: Many veterans have led teams in high-pressure and unpredictable environments.
- Adaptability: Service members are trained to think on their feet and handle change.
- Discipline & Accountability: Punctuality, mission-focus, and integrity are core values.
- Technical Proficiency: Veterans bring experience in logistics, IT, mechanics, and more.
- Problem Solving: Veterans often solve complex challenges with limited resources.
Pro Tip: Military terminology can be unfamiliar. Consider using a veteran résumé translator tool or partner with organizations like SRQ Vets for hiring support.
2. Beyond a “Thank You”: Creating Veteran-Friendly Workplaces
Acknowledging veterans is a great start, but embedding support into your policies and culture makes the impact last. Here’s how:
- Veteran Hiring Goals: Set clear targets to recruit a certain number of veterans annually.
- Military Leave Accommodations: Ensure policies are inclusive of National Guard or Reserve responsibilities.
- Inclusive Onboarding: Provide mentorship programs and transition resources.
- Recognition Programs: Publicly acknowledge veteran employees throughout the year.
Want to strengthen your veteran hiring efforts? Contact SRQ Vets for partnership opportunities.
3. The Power of Mentorship: Connecting Veterans with Sarasota Business Leaders
One of the most impactful ways to support veterans is through career mentorship. Whether you’re a veteran entrepreneur or an experienced professional, your guidance can help others:
- Gain industry-specific knowledge
- Build valuable networking connections
- Grow confidence during their career transition
“Having someone who understands both military life and the business world made all the difference.”
– Mike R., Marine veteran & Sarasota business owner
SRQ Vets is growing a network of local mentors who understand what it means to serve and how to thrive afterward.
4. Share Veteran Employment Resources Year-Round
Extend your support by amplifying awareness of veteran job programs on your company site or social media. Useful resources include:
- SRQ Vets Career Support
- Veterans Florida – Job matching, certifications, and training
- VA’s Veterans Employment Center – National job board and tools
Being a resource amplifier strengthens both the veteran community and your brand.
5. Sponsor or Host Veteran Employment Events in Sarasota
Whether it’s a job fair, panel discussion, or résumé workshop, these events create vital connections. SRQ Vets can help you:
- Plan and promote local hiring events
- Connect with veteran job seekers
- Provide speakers, mentors, or training facilitators
Ready to take the next step? Explore sponsorship opportunities with SRQ Vets and demonstrate your commitment to Sarasota’s veterans.
Building Long-Term Support for Sarasota Veterans
Veterans have given our country their very best; it’s our turn to return that dedication with intentional, year-round support. By rethinking how we hire, mentor, and engage with veterans, Sarasota businesses can transform Veterans Day gratitude into everyday action.
Ready to support Sarasota’s veterans in a meaningful way?
Contact SRQ Vets today to learn how your organization can help shape the future of our local heroes.