Indianapolis, Indiana – In his widely respected book Good to Great, business author Jim Collins wrote that successful companies begin by “getting the right people on the bus.” His point was simple but profound — a company’s future isn’t built solely on technology, marketing, or innovation, but on the people it hires. When it comes to building teams that perform under pressure, adapt quickly, and lead with integrity, few groups bring as much value as military veterans.
Veterans represent a unique talent pool shaped by years of discipline, leadership, and teamwork in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Their experience in high-stakes situations teaches them how to stay calm under pressure, make quick and ethical decisions, and prioritize mission success over individual gain. These are the same qualities that drive strong performance in the business world — reliability, focus, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
What makes veterans particularly valuable in the workplace is not just their skill set, but their mindset. They understand structure, accountability, and collaboration. They’ve been trained to lead diverse teams and communicate across cultural and professional boundaries. Whether managing logistics, coordinating large-scale operations, or solving complex problems with limited resources, veterans bring a results-driven approach that can transform an organization’s culture.
Of course, not all veterans share the same background or experience. Their strengths are shaped by their service branch, rank, and time in uniform. For instance, an enlisted Marine who served four years during peacetime might thrive in hands-on operational roles, demonstrating precision, teamwork, and discipline. A Special Operations Officer with years of overseas deployments, on the other hand, may excel in strategic planning, leadership, and crisis management. Recognizing these distinctions allows employers to match veterans’ abilities with the right roles — creating a mutually beneficial environment where both the company and the veteran succeed.
The business case for hiring veterans goes beyond character and capability — it’s also backed by data. Studies show that military veterans are 27% less likely to leave their first job within six months compared to non-veteran employees. This means greater workforce stability and reduced turnover costs for employers. Additionally, veteran employees experience a 7% lower attrition rate overall, strengthening team continuity and organizational performance. Employers also note that veterans bring an exceptional work ethic — 68% of HR professionals report that veteran employees outperform their civilian counterparts in commitment and dependability.
These statistics translate directly into improved productivity and morale. When a company brings veterans on board, it often sees a boost in leadership quality and accountability at every level. Veterans naturally mentor others, take ownership of challenges, and inspire those around them to aim higher. They also tend to approach their roles with humility and respect, knowing the importance of trust and cooperation in achieving success.
Jim Collins’ philosophy about “getting the right people on the bus” underscores the importance of hiring individuals who bring more than technical skills — they bring values, drive, and resilience. Veterans exemplify all of these traits. They have spent their careers navigating uncertainty and change, often in life-or-death circumstances, and their ability to perform in the face of adversity makes them invaluable in today’s fast-paced and unpredictable business world.
Ultimately, hiring veterans is about more than filling positions — it’s about investing in people who elevate the organization as a whole. By bringing them into the workforce, companies not only gain professionals with proven leadership and teamwork abilities but also strengthen their culture with purpose-driven individuals. Veterans don’t just adapt to company missions; they help redefine and reinforce them.
As businesses continue to compete for top talent, those who recognize the immense potential of military veterans are already setting themselves apart. By intentionally recruiting and empowering veterans, employers are not only doing what’s right for those who served but also making a smart strategic choice — one that can take their company from good to truly great.
