Did you know that Veterans Day is observed on November 11 - or 11/11 - of each year in honor of the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I that went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month? The date was November 11, the year 1918, and the armistice was an end to the war that was meant to end all wars.
This is why Veterans Day was known as Armistice Day until 1954, the year it was renamed to what we know it as today. Then as now, it is a day to commemorate and honor all of those who served the United States by forming part of its military - whether during war or peacetime - for their patriotism, their love of country, and their willingness to sacrifice it all for the common good.
Talk Shoppe has a personal connection to Veterans Day. Our people have family members who have served in the military - husbands, fathers, mothers, grandfathers, and in-laws - across generations and across branches, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines.
We also take great pride in having had veterans in our own ranks. This is why, in honor of Veterans Day this year, we decided to sit down for a chat with Army veteran, former Talk Shopper, and current marketing strategist, Vanessa van der Keyl, to learn more about her time in the military, how her experience has shaped her professional career, and why a veteran may be exactly who you need for your next hire.
Below is our conversation. We hope you find it insightful.
Vanessa, first of all - thank you for your service. Can you tell us a little about your time in the military?
Thank you so much! It was an honor to serve. In the Army, I was a Human Intelligence Collector—essentially, a specialist in gathering intel through direct interaction with people. I was trained to understand human behavior, questioning techniques, and cultural nuances. My role was to build genuine rapport with sources in order to uncover insights about adversary movements, intentions, and capabilities.
I spent time in Afghanistan, working closely with interpreters to collect critical human insights from locals that helped inform strategic decisions and tactical operations for decision-makers.
I know that sounds very military jargon-y, but beyond the technical skills, I also gained a deep understanding of teamwork, collaboration, discipline, and developed a heightened attention to detail—in addition to gaining lifelong friendships that I truly treasure. It really shaped all aspects of my life, and I’m forever grateful for the experience.
What skills or knowledge did you pick up in the military that you think served you later in your professional life?
My military experience instilled skills like rigorous analysis, a strategic mindset, and adaptability. I learned to view information critically, assessing both what's on the surface and the underlying factors. This has translated well into my marketing profession, where understanding the nuances of consumer motivations—or even just figuring out what’s trending today—can make all the difference.
Additionally, the discipline and critical decision-making skills I developed have been key in helping me think outside the box and coming up with effective and creative solutions to problems. It’s definitely helped me manage complex projects without losing my mind... Well, most of the time!
What do you think are some of the parallels between serving in the military and working in marketing/advertising?
Believe it or not, there’s a surprising amount of overlap!
Both involve strategy, teamwork, understanding people, and thinking on your feet. As a Human Intelligence Collector, I spent a lot of time analyzing human behavior—understanding the motivations of our sources and building relationships to gain valuable insights. In marketing, this translates directly to understanding consumer behavior, motivations, and the subtle cues that drive decisions.
In the military, I had to constantly adjust strategies based on intel, which is similar in advertising. Campaigns need to be dynamic, adapting to trends, feedback, and unexpected market or environmental changes—just like shifting military strategies. Both roles require the ability to analyze information and adapt creative, relevant insights. Collaboration is also key—whether working with interpreters, analysts, or decision-makers in the military, or aligning with clients, creative teams, or production in advertising, strong teamwork is essential to executing a successful campaign.
Ultimately, both jobs are about connecting with people, understanding what drives them, and using that insight to build something that resonates—whether it’s a strategy, a campaign, or a mission.
What do you wish people knew more about military veterans?
A couple of things come to mind. On the professional side, I wish people understood that transitioning from military service to civilian work can be daunting. For years, most of us followed a singular career path in a highly structured environment, which can make it hard to see how military experience—like infantry—translates to corporate roles. However, veterans bring many transferable skills that aren't always immediately obvious to hiring teams. We are disciplined, goal-oriented, and skilled at managing time and priorities. Our teamwork and leadership abilities have been tested in some of the most demanding environments. And perhaps most importantly, we bring resilience, accountability, and a strong sense of integrity to whatever we do. Whether in a skilled trade, behind a desk in a corporate setting, or in a creative, educational, or technical field, these qualities make veterans standout assets in any environment.
That said, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the effects of service can linger in ways that aren’t always visible. Veterans are far more than the tough, stoic figures often portrayed in movies. Most of us are compassionate, generous, fun, and easy-going—but too many also face mental and emotional challenges that are often concealed or misunderstood. Unfortunately, it’s far too common for veterans to feel like there is no help available, contributing to the high suicide rates among veterans in this country. Having that solid community of support—whether from fellow veterans, friends, family, even coworkers—is invaluable. The military taught us how to handle a lot, but no one should have to navigate the struggles of life alone.
On a lighter note, if you’re into sarcasm and dark humor, find yourself a veteran—they’re bound to keep you laughing!
Happy Veterans Day.
Let’s continue to honor veterans by remembering that 'service' need not be in past-tense.
Get to know veterans and honor them not only for what they did for us, but also for what they are doing and will do outside of the military, as part of the working force and corporate world.
You may have not shared in their past, but you share in their present and future. We therefore honor all veterans today, not just for their heroic yesterday but also for their bright and promising tomorrow.
Are you a veteran in crisis or concerned about one? You're not alone. Dial the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 then press 1, chat live, or text 838255. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call.
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