Blog Layout

Civil Engineering Firms and Hiring Retired Military

MET • August 28, 2012

This week I was thrilled to hear a client say, “My ideal candidate would be someone who was in a leadership role in the Army Corps of Engineers, Navy, etc.” Throughout my 20+ years as an executive recruiter for the civil engineering industry,  I have usually heard the opposite.

 

U.S. civil engineering firms have tended to seek executive candidates who have run or are running other competitor consulting firms. It is certainly not politically correct to say, but I recall hearing, “let someone else train those candidates what it means to make money and stay on budget. We don’t have the luxury to do so.”

 

It seems that there are stronger arguments to be offered for hiring retired/ex-military. Traditionally, these are people who have been given assignments, challenges and missions with direction to accomplish them. They must succeed under unique circumstances, overcoming difficult obstacles.  They have been trained how to lead and motivate teams not only on a group level but an individual one.  These candidates can bring a unique and fresh perspective to the corporate climate.

 

To tell a retired colonel who has successfully lead significant programs and large teams while navigating difficult terrain, that he isn’t the best candidate to run a civil engineering department, has been difficult and often frustrating. During this period of civil engineering rebuilding, I hope to see new perspectives on hiring retiring military!

 

What has been your experience?

The Metzner Group Blog

Embracing Ethical Recruiting: A 2025 Refresher on Integrity & Relationships

By Carol Metzner • January 24, 2025
Being ethical is critical in executive recruitment. An ethical executive recruiter recognizes that their role goes beyond merely filling a position; it is about building meaningful relationships and ensuring the match between candidate and company is genuine and beneficial. This approach is not just a professional obligation but a moral one. Building Relationships: A skilled executive recruiter understands the importance of nurturing relationships with clients and candidates. These relationships are rooted in trust, transparency, and mutual respect. By understanding both parties' needs, values, and aspirations, the recruiter can make informed decisions that lead to successful matches. Focus on Fit: The right match goes beyond qualifications and experience and involves cultural fit and values alignment. Ethical recruiters take the time to grasp the organization's culture and the candidate's personality. They strive to ensure the new hire will thrive in the company's environment and contribute positively to its goals. Integrity and Honesty: Principled recruiters uphold integrity throughout the recruitment process. They provide honest feedback, manage expectations, and avoid practices that could mislead or exploit either party. This includes being transparent about potential challenges and ensuring candidates are fully informed about the roles they are being considered for. Long-Term Success: An ethical recruiter prioritizes long-term success for both the candidate and the company. This means valuing quality over quantity and making placements likely to endure. An ethical match leads to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a stronger, more cohesive organization. In conclusion, ethical executive recruiters are about much more than filling positions. They foster relationships, ensure a good cultural fit, maintain integrity, and aim for long-term success. By adhering to these principles, recruiters fulfill their professional responsibilities and contribute to the overall well-being of the companies and candidates they serve.

Embrace the Challenge: Take That New Leadership Opportunity!

By Carol Metzner • November 19, 2024
Taking on a new executive role is more than just a career transition—it’s an adventure filled with potential and personal growth. Here’s why you should embrace this opportunity:  1. Growth and Development: A new role challenges you to stretch your capabilities and develop new skills. It’s an invaluable opportunity to broaden your horizons and enhance your leadership toolkit. 2. Fresh Perspectives: A new position brings fresh insights and viewpoints. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone and see the industry differently, fostering innovation and creativity. 3. Expanding Your Network: Embracing a new opportunity connects you with new professionals and mentors. These relationships can offer support, inspiration, and new avenues for collaboration. 4. Driving Impact: You can drive significant change in an executive role. This is your opportunity to implement strategic initiatives and make a lasting impact on the organization. 5. Personal Fulfillment: There is immense satisfaction in taking on new challenges and overcoming them. It boosts your confidence and brings a profoundly fulfilling sense of achievement. Don’t hesitate. Embrace the challenge, take that new executive role, and unlock your potential. The next chapter of your career is waiting—make it count! Let’s discuss this further. Feel free to drop me an update at carol@themetznergroup.com. #Leadership #ExecutiveOpportunities #TakeTheLeap #CivilEngineeringExecutiveSearch Carol A. Metzner The Metzner Group, LLC www.themetznergroup.com
More Posts
Share by: