| VRBR Preparation Guide to Complete Application This preparation guide is a helpful tool to complete your Veteran Ready Business Recognition application. Use this guide in conjunction with the application questions. Most questions are structured as Yes/No prompts, with requirements to upload documentation and provide a brief explanation of how the upload supports your response. While this may feel repetitive, please know that clear documentation and context help ensure consistent review and understanding across all applications. Please remember our team is here to help you; reach out with questions! (Some attachment links will take you to a Constant Contact landing page) 🟫 BRONZE LEVEL PREP- If application prep is completed, bronze can take as little as 30 minutes to complete. ✅ Required:
- 100–250 word business profile/ company culture
- 2-3 minutes – if profile isn’t already created, you can use AI to create one. Example- ChatGPT has a free version
- Business EIN and logo for website
- 1-2 minutes – if preparer has both the EIN and logo already; allow additional time if EIN and logo must be obtained.
- Question 1: Count of employed service members, Veterans, and their families (SMVF)
- 1-5 minutes – if data has already been collected by HR (quick report or manually check records)
- If not collected, a digital survey/email can be drafted and compiled responses; allow 1-2 days to receive responses
Pro tip- for the future make sure to ask on your employment application: · Have you ever served in the Armed Forces? · Have you served in the National Guard or Reserve? · Has your spouse ever served in the Armed Forces? • Question 2: Do you employ currently serving Reserve and/ or National Guard?
- If yes, has your company already signed an ESGR?
- If so, upload certificate.
- If uncertain, follow this https://maps.esgrevents.mil/ link enter your business name. If your business is listed, screenshot the image to upload in the application as confirmation.
- If not, follow this link to send an email. Upload a screenshot of the email requesting a Statement of Support.
https://www.esgr.mil/Employers/Statement-of-Support
- Question 3: Proof of your efforts to educate on external SMVF benefits/resources
- Examples: on a bulletin board flyer, intranet page, email blast (Resource List)
- 1-2 minutes – Use attachment #3 to post to bulletin board and upload picture. You may prepare a company email, use intranet, or web page/social media to educate employees of external Veteran resources. Simply screenshot and upload your business’ efforts.
- Question 4: Proof of SMVF-targeted job outreach
- Examples:
- Job postings on social media
- Registration with Jobs4TN Sign In( A free State of TN job platform)
- Click here for a walk through to register your business with Jobs4TN
- Outreach to military installations.
- Targeted Veteran job fair flyer or email
- 1-2 minutes – upload picture taken at event, flyers/ screenshots of job postings, or proof of jobs4tn.com registration
- Total time required for Bronze application:
- 20 Minutes – Minimum 10 minutes of prep plus another 10 minutes to complete the application (high speed internet—all documentation readily available for upload).
◼️ SILVER LEVEL PREP ✅ Additional Requirements:
- Question 5: Policy or job description showing military service is accepted in lieu of education/experience/certifications (Click here for an example)
- 1 minute – upload existing policy or job description.
- If you do not have a current policy or job description:
- 2 minutes – download Attachment #2 and modify for use in your business
- If your business does not require any education/ experience/ certifications, upload a document with explanation.
Pro Tip- This policy may not work for all positions so tailor a policy that fits the needs of your business.
- Question 6 Documentation showing Veterans/family members are involved in hiring or onboarding SMVF
- Examples: interview team, job fair pics, podcast, policy, flyer, etc.
- Question 7: Proof of SMVF-targeted hiring events
- Hosted by you or by participating in job fairs at the American Job Centers, Veteran organizations, military installations, etc. (Click here for an example)
- Question 8: Documentation of an internal platform to educate your SMVF employees about benefits offered within your business.
- Examples: internal benefit summaries, VA appointment leave policy, special parking, etc. (what does your business offer for Veteran employees, and how do they know it is offered)
- Question 9: Provide contact information for the Veteran Serving Organization you invite to educate employees or have an ongoing relationship.
- Examples: lunch & learns, on-site presentations, volunteer opportunities, etc.
🟨 GOLD LEVEL PREP ✅ Additional Requirements:
- Question 10: Proof of Veteran retention efforts
- Examples: mentorship programs, ERGs, career pathing, Gap Pay, etc.
- Question 11: Provide a job description for a dedicated SMVF-focused role (paid, volunteer, or other duties-assigned).
- Question 12: Documentation of military spouse hiring/retention policies
- Examples: flexible schedules, relocation support, remote roles, parking spots, etc. (Example Policy)
- Question 14: Proof of SMVF-focused apprenticeship or on-the-job training programs
- Examples: Skill Bridge, Cyber Warrior, journeyman, Honor Program, fellowships, registered apprenticeships, etc.
If you have questions or encounter challenges, we're here to help. |
