Whether you are specifically marketing your jobs to the Armed Forces community or simply looking for highly skilled candidates, with the majority of Service leavers being of working age, it is likely that you will interview a veteran at some point. We are not saying you must change the whole interview just because the person has served in the Forces, but making sure you have an understanding of how their skills and experience can translate into the commercial world will benefit you. And knowing what not to ask is going to make the interview process go smoothly for both you and the candidate. Your goal should be to assess their potential while showing understanding for their Service that is not invasive or condescending.

  • Focus on the individual

No two experiences in the Armed Forces are the same and applicants should be judged as individuals. An Army Sergeant’s service will differ hugely from a Submariner, that’s not to say some of their skills-set, especially soft skills won’t be the same. But don’t pigeon hole. Understand the Services are vast, and within the Army, RAF and Navy (which includes the Royal Marines), there are commissioned and non-commissioned ranks – and that really is only skimming the surface! Nobody is expecting you to be an expert on the British Armed Forces but having some knowledge, or what would be ideal is if you have a veteran/s within your workplace onboard within the HR process. We understand that may not be possible but having an ‘insider’ who can help within the hiring process of ex-military personnel will only benefit you.

  • Don’t ask invasive questions

Of course their military service is something that will no doubt be discussed throughout the interview, but be mindful of what you ask – focus on the candidate’s translatable skills, qualifications and experience that would make them a great-fit for the role. Unless they openly share these details with you, avoid asking questions about combat experience and mental health conditions – avoid all negative stereotypes!

  • Focus on transferable skills

Some military personnel will be experienced within the commercial sector and may have been working in Civvy street for years. However for many, this will be the first job since leaving the military – and perhaps their first interview. So although the candidate should be able to translate their skills – it would be beneficial to understand the skills veterans can bring to the table. 

Here’s a few blog posts to get you started:

Top in-demand skills of 2025 and how veterans are one step ahead

Why should you hire from the Armed Forces community?

Closing the skills gap: How veterans can help

If you’d like to find out more about our top candidates, you can search our talent pool here – and if you’d like to find out more about how we can help you, find out more here.