A quiet, but significant transformation is reshaping the job market. As headlines spotlight, federal workforce reductions have displaced more than 275,000 government employees. Public servants are being asked to step aside from dedicated careers. At the same time, over 22,000 military personnel transition into civilian roles each year, ready to bring their leadership and resilience to new roles.
For employers, this isn’t just a hiring opportunity. It’s a chance to stand behind those who have served our country and communities. Yet, despite their qualifications, they’re often met with hesitation. Employers accustomed to linear career paths may overlook these candidates due to unfamiliar job titles or perceived lack of corporate experience.
It’s time to change that narrative and recognize the strategic value these individuals offer.
Rethinking the Resume
Government professionals and veterans offer real-world experience from high-pressure, mission-driven environments. They’ve led teams, overseen multimillion-dollar programs, and made critical decisions in high-pressure situations. The challenge lies in helping employers recognize how those skills translate to the business world.
“We’re seeing incredible people enter the job market from federal roles and the military—people who know how to solve problems, lead through ambiguity, and deliver results,” says Kristen Faust, managing director of contingency recruiting at CBIZ Talent Solutions. “Our job is to help employers see beyond the resume and recognize the value that’s already there.”
What Employers Can Do
Here are four ways organizations can tap into this powerful talent segment:
- Prioritize potential over pedigree. Focus on capabilities like leadership, analytical thinking, and resilience, not just job titles or company names.
- Offer structure and support. A strong onboarding program, paired with mentoring and clear role expectations, can set these professionals up for success.
- Include them in your long-term talent strategy. These candidates bring a unique diversity of thought, background, and experience.
- Champion their success. Celebrate their wins and showcase the impact they make. It sets a positive example, inspires others, and helps build a more inclusive culture.
What CBIZ Talent Solutions Pledges
At CBIZ Talent Solutions, we believe in the power of transitions done right. We actively support candidates from non-traditional paths and help companies find the leaders they didn’t know they needed.
“As executive search professionals, we’re often brought in to solve complex talent challenges,” adds Leslie Shaw, retained executive search partner at CBIZ Talent Solutions. “It’s incredibly rewarding when we help a client recognize the untapped value in someone with public service or military experience. These individuals bring character, accountability, and a strategic mindset that elevate teams.”
Here’s how we help
- Talent Advocacy: We position transitioning professionals as strategic assets, not risks.
- Holistic Assessment: Our evaluation goes deeper than the resume, focusing on leadership, values, and long-term fit.
- Candidate Coaching: We help applicants reframe their experience in ways that resonate with hiring teams.
- Client Education: We bridge the communication gap, helping decision-makers understand the full picture.
A Shared Opportunity to Lead Differently
Today’s workforce shift offers a chance for employers to lead with vision by embracing talent that’s often overlooked. Veterans and former government professionals bring unique strengths: mission focus, adaptability, and proven leadership under pressure.
At CBIZ Talent Solutions, we help organizations recognize and harness that potential. By bridging the gap between public service and the private sector, we’re building stronger, more resilient teams—together. Looking to strengthen your workforce with proven leaders? Let’s get started.
© Copyright CBIZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Use of the material contained herein without the express written consent of the firms is prohibited by law. This publication is distributed with the understanding that CBIZ is not rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice. The reader is advised to contact a tax professional prior to taking any action based upon this information. CBIZ assumes no liability whatsoever in connection with the use of this information and assumes no obligation to inform the reader of any changes in tax laws or other factors that could affect the information contained herein. Material contained in this publication is informational and promotional in nature and not intended to be specific financial, tax or consulting advice. Readers are advised to seek professional consultation regarding circumstances affecting their organization.
“CBIZ” is the brand name under which CBIZ CPAs P.C. and CBIZ, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including CBIZ Advisors, LLC, provide professional services. CBIZ CPAs P.C. and CBIZ, Inc. (and its subsidiaries) practice as an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable law, regulations, and professional standards. CBIZ CPAs P.C. is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients. CBIZ, Inc. and its subsidiary entities provide tax, advisory, and consulting services to their clients. CBIZ, Inc. and its subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms and, therefore, cannot provide attest services.