Recently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that unemployment rates of certain segments of veterans continue to trend above national averages. Today employers are actively committed to recruiting and hiring veterans throughout the Country.

A new survey forecasted that 38% will actively recruit a veteran over the next year; up 33% from the previous year. While 47% have hired a veteran into a new position within the last year.

As hiring is up for veterans it is important to remember the skills and qualifications that veterans bring to an organization. Many hiring managers today still do not understand the vast qualifications a transitioning active service member can bring to an organization.

While most service members are not fully prepared when transitioning to communicate their experiences in the civilian marketplace, hiring managers need to take the time to understand an applicant's qualifications, experiences and translate those into how a firm may benefit from hiring a veteran.

A hiring manager needs to keep an open mind as to direct experience and look at the broader qualification mix that makes a veteran an ideal employee.

Veterans have an exceptional disciplined work ethic, focus on working as a team and respect fellow team members. They present the integrity to excel in difficult situations while working under pressure. Most veterans today have the abilities to lead and solve complex problems, while adapting quickly in a variety of situations. They have great communication skills and persevere to achieve the set goals.

Today employers are hiring veterans across the spectrum of industries from customer service, information technology, sales, production, to distribution/logistics, accounting, business development, marketing and research/development.

Veterans can provide a valuable contribution to any organization in the civilian marketplace; so take the time and truly understand the experiences and qualifications they bring when interviewing.

To bring that hiring percentage up from 47% to 100% talk with more veterans, interview them, ask them about their experiences, projects, accomplishments and how they feel they can contribute to your organization. Many hiring mangers will be surprised as to a veterans qualifications and abilities to achieve success under pressure.

To find veterans transitioning out of the military contact any one of the many military transition offices around the country; they offer a vast amount of resources to employers to locate, recruit transitioning veterans looking for jobs in the civilian workplace. A little discovery will go along way to finding exceptional employees for your firm.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing. To learn more about Michael or to follow his Blog please visit http://www.michaeldesafey.com