Mentors matter – supporting veterans to find success

Having a solid support network in your workplace can be instrumental in setting you up for success in the civilian workforce after your defence career.

This can start with seeking out a mentor. Many veterans who find success in their civilian life cite the support and guidance they have received from a mentor as a funda­mental part of that success. From the small things to the big things, mentors can help veterans joining the civilian workforce. 

‘Sometimes it can be as practi­cal as breaking down a CV,’ says David Bragg from Boeing Defence Australia, speaking about his expe­riences as a mentor. ‘Sometimes it’s just about taking a moment to help a veteran find a space to create that clarity and momentum and find their own path.’ 

David was fortunate enough to meet mentors himself when begin­ning civilian employment. ‘I was blown away by the benefits that I got from it,’ he adds. 

Connecting with a mentor in the civilian workforce, whether they are a veteran themselves or not, can benefit a veteran in many ways. Your mentor can help you adjust to your civilian workplace by sharing their own knowledge and expe­riences. Rachel Leal, also from Boeing Defence Australia notes: ‘It is different, the landscape is differ­ent. Having a mentor has helped me navigate that.’ 

A mentor can provide a sup­portive and productive workplace culture and assist with making plans for career development and advancement. Mentors can con­nect you to new networks and help you to build positive working relationships that can foster your civilian career. 

To find employers committed to supporting veteran employment with veteran employee mentor­ing programs, visit the Veteran Employment Program website at www.veteransemployment.gov.au and use the “Find Veteran Employ­ment Commitment organisations” search portal. The website also hosts other resources and advice for your transition and civilian employment. 

Employers of veterans can visit the website to join the Vet­eran Employment Commitment. Resources for employers, includ­ing a practical guide on how to develop a mentoring program in your workplace, are also available on the website.