Greg Bolan is a military veteran who served in the United States Army. Now working in corporate finance, Greg Bolan understands how serving in the army can prepare service members for the next chapter of life, with leadership skills, self-discipline, and strategic thinking skills. In the following article, Mr. Bolan discusses below the many reasons why military veterans should consider a career in finance in their post military lives.
After retiring from the military, many veterans question whether their skills can be adapted and applied to the civilian world. Yet, what they sometimes forget is that they have a wealth of knowledge in logistics and analysis. Although it may not be for everyone, Greg Bolan says that a career in finance may be a good option for veterans who want to use their analytic and strategic thinking skills in a new industry.
The transition out of the military can sometimes be difficult and confusing but by focusing on a career in finance, veterans can easily assimilate into the civilian world. Their background in the military often provides a strong foundation of knowledge that they can then apply to a profitable and successful new life path.
Former Military Members are Trained in Self-Discipline and Leadership Skills
When new recruits first enlist in the military, they spend the first few months in basic training learning essential skills needed to succeed within the military. These skills include discipline, physical fitness, leadership skills, and specialized military training. After completing basic training, they’re expected to maintain these skills on their own, strengthening a culture of self-control explains Greg Bolan.
Many veterans fear that these skills may make them too rigid for the civilian world yet, in the finance industry, self-discipline and leadership skills are highly valued says Greg Bolan. After all, finance can quickly become a high-stress environment, requiring a cool head and careful guidance to bring a team toward success.
Additionally, the military also instills a sense of teamwork in its members. In the finance industry, this teamwork is essential for success. Because the industry is so fast-paced and ever-changing, those who can work together quickly and efficiently are highly sought-after.
Both Finance and the Military Require Strategic and Analytic Thinkers
The military is all about planning and strategy. Greg Bolan explains that military members are often tasked with making quick decisions that could mean life or death for themselves and their fellow soldiers. This type of pressure often requires split-second strategic thinking and an ability to analyze a situation from all angles.
Although the stakes are undeniably lower, the finance industry also requires its employees to be strategic thinkers. From investing to budgeting, those who work in finance must be able to make sound decisions based on data analysis and an understanding of the market. For veterans, this type of thinking will likely come naturally says Greg Bolan.
Finance is a Dynamic and Rewarding Career Choice
The finance industry is always changing and evolving, providing those who work within it a constant challenge. For veterans who are used to the structure of the military, this dynamic environment may be appealing. Additionally, Greg Bolan says that those who succeed in finance often find themselves rewarded with high salaries and job security.
Compared to other industries, finance is relatively stable, rewarding veterans with a sense of security as they transition into the civilian world. This sense of security can make the transition easier and provide a sense of community that they may miss after leaving the service.
Possible Challenges Veterans May Face While Working in the Finance Industry
Although working in finance may be a good fit for many veterans, they may face a few challenges according to Greg Bolan. For example, the industry can be very competitive, making it difficult to get a foot in the door. Whereas most veterans had a built-in community of like-minded soldiers around them 24/7, after leaving the service, they’ll have to quickly build a network to find their place within the industry.
Additionally, the finance industry is known for its long hours and high stress levels. Veterans who are used to a more regimented lifestyle may find the long and variable hours difficult to adjust to. They’ll have to wake themselves up, get to work, communicate, socialize, and adapt to ever-changing requirements explains Greg Bolan.
Finally, veterans must learn to assimilate to non-hierarchical career advancement. In the military, it’s easy to move up the ranks, but in finance, promotions are often based on job performance, not years of service. This could be a difficult adjustment for veterans who are used to a more rigid structure.
Final Thoughts
For many veterans, a career in finance may be a good option. Their military training often provides them with essential skills that are highly valued in the industry, such as discipline, strategic thinking, and leadership. Additionally, the finance industry is always changing, providing veterans with a constant challenge. Although there may be a few challenges, such as the long hours and high stress levels, the rewards often outweigh the difficulties.
