Empowering Veterans in Career Transition: The Development of a Model for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in the Civilian Workforce

Abstract

Each year, approximately 200,000 service members transition from military to civilian employment, facing numerous personal, professional, and cultural challenges. Among these, impostor syndrome—a pervasive sense of self-doubt despite evidence of competence—emerges as a significant psychological barrier that can hinder successful reintegration into civilian roles. Veterans often encounter difficulties in translating military skills into civilian terms, navigating workplace cultures, and combating stereotypes, which may contribute to feelings of inadequacy and undervaluation. This article explores impostor syndrome within the context of veteran transitions, reviewing existing literature on its causes, workforce implications, and mental health outcomes. It introduces the Hunter Model, a human resource development (HRD)-oriented framework designed to empower veterans in overcoming impostor syndrome during career transitions. The model emphasizes the critical role of HRD professionals in creating supportive environments, translating military competencies into civilian-recognized qualifications, and implementing targeted interventions that address both organizational structures and individual veteran needs. This work contributes to the limited body of research on impostor syndrome among veterans and provides actionable insights for HRD practitioners committed to fostering inclusive and affirming workplaces.