#52Women52Weeks: Melissa Washington helps female veterans find their dream career

After proudly serving her country in the United States Navy, Melissa Washington earned her bachelor’s degree in business management and transitioned into a successful career in staffing and recruiting for more than 10 years working for both boutique agencies and global Fortune 500 companies. She runs Women Veterans Alliance, the fastest growing women veterans organization focused on career and professional development.

1. When you were in the Navy did you know you wanted to run your own business and help others do the same?

Not specifically. When I joined the Navy I was young and fresh out of 1 year at Junior college where I was working on my degree in Early Childhood Education. During my time in the Navy there was a lot of figuring out what I wanted to do and not do.

2. What skills do veterans possess that make them natural business leaders?

Veterans epitomize these attributes:

·         Adaptable

·         Committed

·         Confidence

·         Determination

·         Disciplined

·         Flexible

·         Focus

·         Leadership

·         Quick problem solvers in intense situations 

·         Resilience

·         Respectful

·         Task Focused

·         Team Players

·         Trainable

3. Since post traumatic stress disorder affects over 18% of vets returning from active duty, what advice do you have for vets entering the business world on how to avoid stressful workplace environments?

Be prepared as at times it may be unavoidable. Have different modalities that work for you to handle stress. Don’t let PTSD be a barrier to transitioning into a civilian career.

4. Your book Get Back to Work has an extended chapter on how to use LinkedIn where you worked for years planning global events and meetings. Why is LinkedIn so crucial to anyone in business?

In today’s world having on an online presence is essential. On LinkedIn once you create a profile you have created your online brand, which allows you to market yourself in addition to your business. It gives you credibility whether you are looking for a job or looking to do business with someone. It’s a gold mine of data! With LinkedIn it becomes about who you know and they know.

5. Do you think women veterans have a harder time getting hired than their male vet counterparts? What can be done to combat this?

Yes and No. Lots has to do with women veterans not understanding their “full worth” and how all of their great skills and attributes can be transferred into a career.

Ways to combat this:

1.       Getting women connected with mentors even before they get out of the service.

2.       Help women to better understand the types of opportunities that are out there in all sectors.

3.       Connect women directly with employers (hiring managers & recruiters).

4.       Conduct coaching session to give them confidence to overcome the “stereotypes” that have been placed on veterans. Then how to deal with those effectively and professionally.

5.       Join Women Veterans Alliance.

Link with Melissa Washington HERE

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