Kelly Perdew Shares his Entrepreneurial Tips for Military Vets

When the nation's military heroes return from overseas, their entrepreneurial spirit lives on at home. Each year, 250,000 members of the military transition to the civlian sector and begin to look for their next step in life. Season two winner of the hit TV show "The Apprentice," Kelly Perdew, shares his advice for starting a business and making a successful transition from the military to civilian life.

WHAT HELPED YOU TRANSITION INTO CIVILIAN LIFE AND BECOME A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR?

Perdew: As many military veterans can attest, the skills we learn through our extensive training are extremely helpful in the business world. When you leave the military you leave with a strong entrepreneurial spirit as well as highly developed leadership skills, determination and a sense of commitment. It's this foundation that helped me take the next step into becoming a business leader, a competitor and a successful business owner.

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR HELPING VETERANS TAKE THAT NEXT STEP IN FINDING A JOB IN TODAY'S TOUGH ECONOMY?

Perdew: First, there are a number of American companies that have special programs designed to help veterans take that next step into building a lifelong career using the skills they learned in the military. Plus, as we all know, the business industry is very competitive and with the lack of jobs available today, many American veterans may consider becoming an independent business owner. I found great personal and professional satisfaction leading my own companies.

Also, be on the lookout for unique opportunities directed at veterans like "Operation Stores & Stripes," where military veterans have the chance to win his or her very own Sears Hometown Store.

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT HOW CAN VETERANS GET INVOLVED IN "OPERATION STORES AND STRIPES?"

Perdew: Now through June 25th, qualified military veterans can enter the "Operation Stores & Stripes" contest online at www.searshometownstores.com/veteran where they will complete an application which serves as their official entry to the contest. Once the recruitment period closes, all applications will be reviewed and qualified candidates will be notified that they will continue on the second phase of competition. Ultimately, one deserving military veteran will earn an entrepreneur's dream - their very own business. The winner will receive their own Sears Hometown Store which they will independently own and operate. All Sears Hometown Stores are locally owned and operated by dedicated, hard working individuals that take great pride in serving their communities nationwide and we couldn't think of another group, other than our nation's military heroes to honor with this program.

You can find out more by visiting www.searshometownstores.com/veteran.