If all those years of being ordered around in the military made you decide to be your own boss when you get out, you’re in luck: It seems like everyone wants to help you do that.
This includes the U.S. Small Business Administration. No matter what stage you’re at in your business or in separating from the military, the SBA has you covered with its “Boots to Business” program.
Whether you know it or not, you — like all veterans — are uniquely suited to be self-employed. In fact, around 9% of all businesses in the U.S. are veteran-owned and 10% of veterans run their own business. The SBA says military experience is a stronger predictor of entrepreneurship than a graduate degree. The reasons are fourfold:
1. Military veterans are organized. There’s a lot about the military that doesn’t make sense, depending on what level you’re at. There’s a reason every veteran of every era knows what a soup sandwich is. That’s OK. We thrive in chaos and create order from within.
2. Veterans take the initiative. Following orders takes military personnel only so far. They have to think on their feet, sometimes under fire, to reach objectives. This doesn’t change when they get out. Veterans are quick to take an opportunity that presents itself.
3. Veteran share experiences. Though networking with civilians in their military career field can be difficult, once out of the military, veterans are quick to grow their personal and professional networks, both military and civilian. The veteran networks they create are often stronger because of the shared experience of military service.
4. The military gives you focus and dedication. Military life isn’t easy and, if you can endure some of the hardships that come with it, you can probably endure a lot, so the stress of starting and operating your own business isn’t something you can’t handle.
Article By: caveteranschamber.com | Article Credit | Photo Credit
