Leadership Lessons: Bridging the Military and HR Worlds

Hello, LinkedIn community! In Week 1, I introduced myself by highlighting my background, values, and career journey. Now, in Week 2, we're diving into an exciting topic—leadership insights from my military service and how they seamlessly translate to my role in Human Resources.

My Military Leadership Experience: ??????

My military journey has been an extraordinary chapter in my life. I've worn various hats, from a Knowledge Operations Management Staff Sergeant to a Personnel Craftsman Tech Sergeant and, most recently, as a Force Support Officer 1st Lieutenant. These roles have not only shaped my career but have instilled in me invaluable leadership skills.

Adaptability in Action: ?

The military environment is synonymous with change. We must adapt swiftly to new missions, environments, and challenges. My experience has ingrained adaptability into my core, a skill that remains crucial in HR. The modern workplace is ever-evolving, and my military background equips me to navigate change effectively, ensuring HR practices stay dynamic and responsive.

Leading from the Front:?

In the military, we lead by example. As non-commissioned officers, we understood that our actions set the tone for our teams. This principle extends seamlessly to HR. Leading by example, demonstrating the values, ethics, and professionalism we advocate, is essential to creating a positive work culture.

Empathy in Leadership:??

One of the most profound lessons from my military service is the power of empathy in leadership. In the military, we were a diverse group, each with a unique background. Empathy was our common language, fostering unity and understanding.

In HR, empathy is a cornerstone. It underpins effective communication, conflict resolution, and talent retention. By understanding employees' needs and perspectives, we create a workplace where individuals thrive.

Career Journey Reflection:??

My military journey has not been without its share of challenges. From deployments to personal doubts, it's been a path paved with resilience. It took persistence to transition from an enlisted Airman to an Officer, a journey my husband also undertook. The road was bumpy, with test scores and rejections, but the determination to make a positive impact on my fellow Airmen fueled my resolve.

My transition to a Force Support Officer and subsequent enrollment in Air Force Officer Training School during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic marked pivotal moments. These experiences, combined with my HR role at Smithfield Foods and later at U.S. Cargo Systems, have enriched my journey.

Alignment with Core Values:?????

My military journey aligns seamlessly with my core values—honesty, integrity, loyalty, justice, and fairness. These values have been my North Star, guiding my actions in the military and, now, in HR. My dedication to continuous learning, evidenced by my MBA and pursuit of SHRM-SCP certification, echoes my commitment to excellence in HR.

Conclusion:

As I reflect on my military journey and its profound impact on my HR career, I'm reminded that leadership lessons can be found in the most unexpected places. The adaptability, leading by example, and empathy cultivated in the military have become my HR superpowers.

Thank you for joining me in Week 2 of this series. In Week 3, we'll explore my passion for interpersonal skills and empathy. Stay tuned for more insights and reflections.

Feel free to share your own leadership lessons or any questions in the comments below. Let's continue this journey of growth and learning together.