Have you ever been underemployed? By definition, underemployment means “employed at a low-paying job that requires less skill or training than one possesses.” In the United States, the underemployment rate is 13.8 percent. How many friends and family members do you know that are underemployed? There are three types of Underemployment; Underemployment by Choice, Underemployment in Place, and Underemployment by Circumstance. Underemployment is a major concern that we often overlook with statements such as “at least I have a job,” or “I need money,” or I’ll take what I can get.” Here lies the problem.
I recently made the acquaintance of a veteran who served as an Army Ranger and transitioned a few years ago. Upon returning home to family and loved ones, he was dumb struck by the lack of great employment opportunities. So, he did what most people do – took what is available. He ended up being a high school custodial agent. This veteran is someone who served our country as a Ranger, and is able to make clear life and death decisions.
“Rangers are role model soldiers – mentally, morally, and physically – who use their minds as well as bodies to make sound judgments, reasoned decisions, and ultimately to never quit. Rangers demonstrate discipline both on and off duty, and their Regimental standards are enduring.” (Source: http://www.goarmy.com/ranger/being-a-ranger.html)
However, due to having a family and financial obligations, he has returned home and took a position that doesn’t utilize the tremendous skill set he obtained during his service. As employers and non-serving civilians, shouldn’t we take a step back and look at individuals with “Real World” experience such as veterans?
As civilians, we must make it our responsibility to better understand what experience veterans possess (for example: task oriented, clear collaboration, and physical prowess) and how we can make that transition easier.
Have you ever asked a veteran if he/she is happy in their job or would they choose a different career? Most importantly, have you asked yourself if you are underemployed?
Do something about It! Change your life.
One way we’re helping veterans is through Military Job Networks (MJN). It’s an exclusive online networking platform created and enabled only for verified U.S. Military Veterans. In addition, employers can join to connect with veterans and build a pipeline of candidates.
If you’re a civilian, visit My.jobs to search over one million openings. You can also set up an account to receive email alerts for opportunities that match your interests.
George H. Purcell II, President and Chief Executive Officer
Military Job Networks, Inc.
George H. Purcell II is a native Washingtonian. He is a graduate of Lycoming College, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Corporate Communications with a minor in Business Administration. George Studied abroad and participated in a business externship where he traveled abroad to over 15 countries studying real estate with a focus on European multifamily real estate. While in England he worked and studied at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, England and engaged in an intense study of British real estate development. Mr. Purcell was employed by Bozzuto Homes a Bozzuto Group Company. During his tenure at Bozzuto, George oversaw the development of 500 Condominium units in the greater Washington Metropolitan area including projects upwards of $48 million dollars. In 2008 Mr. Purcell was fortunate to assume the responsibility of his family business ASAP Services Corporation Inc., a full-service home healthcare agency based in Washington D.C.