PRSA Salutes Returning Military Personnel with New Moving Veterans Forward Initiative

NEW YORK, Nov. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) has announced a new initiative aimed at assisting veterans during their transition from the military to the civilian workforce, effective immediately.

PRSA's Moving Veterans Forward initiative will offer qualified military public affairs professionals with a free one-year PRSA membership and access to career tools such as resume writing tips, networking information and job interviewing tips and techniques.

"I am so proud to have the opportunity this Veterans Day to introduce this incredible program to our military personnel," stated PRSA Chair and CEO Mickey G. Nall, APR, Fellow PRSA. "The men and women in our military ranks have made great sacrifices to serve America; this is but a small thank you from us to them for their dedication."

The transition from military service to civilian life can often be a challenge. Many men and women find it difficult to explain how their military skills translate into civilian roles. This difficulty is reflected in the higher than average unemployment rate of military men and women.

Moving Veterans Forward will provide the tools necessary to make for a smooth transition for both the officers and the civilian employers. The unique toolkits created for each will educate and prepare the job seeker and the hiring manager throughout the arduous process. The employer toolkit will help those unfamiliar with military life by explaining military culture, the different types of military service and how to convert military into civilian qualifications. Additional resources include information on:

• How to create a culturally sensitive new hire orientation plan;
• Various tax incentives offered for hiring veterans; and
• Creating a veteran-friendly workplace.

In order to inspire veterans, the Moving Veterans Forward initiative also includes success stories from returning military personnel who effectively transitioned from military life to prosperous public relations careers. All participating military veterans included their personal tips, recommendations and success stories.

Visit the Veterans Moving Forward section of the PRSA website to view the toolkits and other resources. For the complimentary PRSA membership offer, view the list of qualifying criteria and contact Eileen Lintao in PRSA's membership department for more information.

About the Public Relations Society of America
PRSA is the largest professional organization serving the U.S. public relations community. With a mission to "advance the profession and the professional," PRSA provides news and information, thought leadership, continuing education and networking opportunities; sets standards of professional excellence and ethical conduct; and advocates for the business value of public relations and greater diversity among public relations professionals. Based in New York, PRSA comprises 112 local Chapters; 14 Professional Interest Sections that focus on specific industries and practice areas; and the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), which is active at more than 320 colleges and universities.

SOURCE Public Relations Society of America