A decision to recruit military veterans needn’t be based simply on a desire to show gratitude for veterans’ service or to burnish a reputation for being veteran-friendly.

Veterans perform at higher levels and have lower turnover rates than other workers, according to research conducted by advisory company CEB. The company’s analysis shows a 4 percent performance advantage and a 3 percent lower turnover rate for veteran hires compared to non-veterans. The advantages could translate into saving millions of dollars for a large employer.

“Our research shows that veterans, on average, perform at higher levels and are more loyal, long-term employees,” Brian Kropp, managing director for CEB, said in a press release. “With more than 130,000 military personnel entering the workforce in 2014, the support leading NGOs and other military support channels provide is essential in helping to ensure service men and women have the resources they need to find high-quality jobs, and in helping leading organizations address skill gaps and other hiring concerns,” he said.

The results were announced last week at a Washington press conference hosted by the Call of Duty Endowment to recognize nonprofit organizations that most effectively help veterans find jobs. The press conference was followed by a symposium on best practices for assisting veterans with job placement.

To view highlights of the press conference, as well as a summary of the best practices, visit the Call of Duty website.