Veterans and Jobs

It’s harder than ever now for veterans to find a job after their time serving our country. Even after taking transition classes, veterans are struggling to assimilate back into civilian life. Even though veterans are extensively trained, military training doesn’t always translate into the social skills needed in today’s job market. Too often companies pass over veterans because the persona they were mandated to adopt in order to succeed in the military is vastly different from the average American business environment.

Veterans are becoming frustrated, feeling that their skills are not desirable and that they must start from square one in order to be employed. Those veterans who do find jobs often rise slowly in a company due to incompatibility of socialization skills.

Approximately 250 veterans return home every day.  These veterans will then seeks jobs in a market where there are approximately 187 qualified applicants for every job posting. Companies offer the following advice to veterans seeking civilian careers: obtain organizational structure for the company for which you are interviewing so you know what to expect; make sure your resume is not too long. A long resume does not necessarily mean it’s better than others and may make you seem overqualified for the job; make sure your resume incorporates the language of the employer; make sure the content of your resume shows a problem you solved and the actions you took to resolve that problem; proofread your resume – send it to professional to look over (there are many professional critiques out there who will look at it for no cost); if you do not have a LinkedIn profile, get one now. LinkedIn is a professional social media site to explore job/internship opportunities. If you do have a LinkedIn profile, make sure it is complete. Social Media is a great tool for veterans to utilize when looking for a career path.

Once you are granted an interview, make sure you prepare for it.  Practice with someone by going over your resume and reading it out loud. After your interview, send a thank you message that has some substance. Do not just write thank you and leave it at that.  Include a sentence demonstrating how much you appreciated the opportunity to interview and proclaim how much you would enjoy working for the company.

Today’s military veterans receive extensive training in a variety of different areas. They are mandated to be on time, be courteous and to compete a task at the highest level.  With this type of training they should be easily employable once they understand and transition from a military environment into a corporate atmosphere.  The social transition is the most difficult part.  Having a network of career professionals who can help mentor you through the process will assist you in securing the right civilian career path.

Why I Love Boating - Alex Figliolia Jr. Favorites

 Boats:
By: Alex Figliolia Jr.

Boating is one of my favorite pastimes.  Nothing can compare to the gentle roll of the open water while the wind blows against my face.  It's exhilarating and it lift's my spirits more quickly than any other activity.  Boating provides me with a sense of relaxation and an opportunity to sit back and
reflect.

Boating in New York is growing as a pastime.  New York State offers a plethora of scenic waterways, which include the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, the Hudson & St. Lawrence River, lakes in the Adirondack, the Finger Lakes and so much more. Boating alongside family and friends is such a great feeling - not many things can compare to it. There are many types of boating options for everyone to enjoy.  Whether you're a child or an adult there is something for you.  From kayaking, floating and sailing to yachting, speed and motor boating - anything goes on the New York waters.

If you do not have your own boat or do not know anybody with a boat, that's not a problem! New York harbor is teaming with companies who can help you experience all the joys the water can provide. There are many cruise lines available in and out of New York showcasing tours of New York City with spectacular views.

Gray and Circle Line cruises offer inexpensive tours that allow riders to see New York City from the water.  Options include Statue of Liberty, Randall’s Island, High Bridge, Colombia University, Harlem, South Street Seaport, Brooklyn Bridge, Yankee Stadium and so much more.

I love New York City and I especially love seeing it from a different perspective.  Boating brings me a sense of freedom similar to that which I get from riding a motorcycle.

Other boating opportunities around New York City include Kayaking with Red Hook Boaters. This option is especially good for children.

Support the Wounded Warrior Project

America, the greatest country in the world, is home to the strongest and bravest soldiers in the world. The U.S. military is comprised of five different branches, which, together, provide unparalleled protection for our country. They are Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard. As a nation, we thrive to keep our veterans and their families safe and well secured. Alex Figliolia Jr. is an ongoing supporter of our military. He understands how hard it is for veterans to get acclimated back into civilian life. Warriors returning home from service are searching for peace, serenity and good paying jobs, which can often be challenging because skills acquired in service to the military do not always translate into today’s businesses world. Organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project helps veterans through every step of their recovery. When a service member is wounded or injured, the amount of stress put on families and loved ones is enormous. The purpose of the Wounded Warrior Project is to make sure all warriors receive the care and support they deserve.  Alex Figliolia Jr. is a solid supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project and is determined to honor those warriors who served and who exchanged their well being for our freedom. When donating to the Wounded Warrior Project, you are supporting the individual warrior, which makes all the difference in the world. The Wounded Warrior Project assists victims of the September 11^th attacks on our country. Raising awareness about our wounded warriors and giving back to our heroes who have served our country is an essential part of society. Our warriors fight every day to keep us safe and secure. Alex Figliolia Jr., a dedicated businessman and community advocate, is committed to improving the lives of wounded warriors and thanking them for their service.  

Click here to learn more about The Wounded Warrior Project,

American Motorcycles

Alex Figliolia Jr. and American made motorcycles go hand in hand, which is why he is an admirer of Indian Motorcycles. The Indian Roadmaster is the type of bike made for comfort, and is made for cruising on the city streets or the open road.  Alex Figliolia Jr. directs those looking to purchase an Indian motorcycle to Gotham Motorcycles at 364 Bay Street, Staten Island. Congratulations to Alex Figliolia Jr. for the sales of Indian Motorcycles. His friendly presence is the reason for such great service at Gotham Motorcycles.  If you’re looking for an Indian Motorcycle, the best bang for your buck is the Scout series, as proclaimed by Alex Figliolia Jr., who is an avid Indian Motorcycle connoisseur. The Scout Series is a powerful midsize model that redefines the new generation of Indian Motorcycles. This quick sporty platform with modern technology stimulates a new generation of Indian Scout riders. The history of Indian Motorcycles goes back to World War I era, and is America’s oldest motorcycle. The first Indian Motorcycle were sold to the public around 1902 and then used for the war efforts after. About 50,000 models were put into production for WWI. They were so durable; they were a huge addition to our war efforts.  Gotham Motorcycles, Staten Island’s first motorcycle dealership, which sells Victory, Slingshot and iconic Indian motorcycles, is the only place in New York to obtain a Victory or Slingshot motorcycle. Three wheeled motorcycles are also available too, Slingshots. The Slingshots are amongst one of the new popular motorcycles out there right now. They are a rush of adrenaline with an awesome interior and exterior.