One industry that is never going to be depleted is the ‘people’ industry. And with skills shortages and stiff competition for both the best minds, and general labour, Human Resources (HR) plays a crucial role in every company of every size.
The role of HR covers a wide scope of disciplines: legal, communication, psychology, financial, motivational, pastoral… it forms the one place everyone goes to when they have a problem. As a result, for someone considering a new career, or indeed a change of career, it is a profession that promises plenty of variety and interest.
Whether you decide to enter the corporate world and gain a deep insight into the workings of some of the largest employers global, or prefer to branch off and specialise with niche service providers such as Paydata that specialise in rewards consultancy, you need to consider the starting point of your journey.
What qualifications do you need to aim for?
There are several different HR related options that you can look into that would give you an inroad into HR. These could be a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration with an HR concentration, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, or a related field can provide a solid foundation. Some roles in HR may require a master’s degree, especially for higher-level positions or specialized areas like organizational development.
While studying, and during the holidays, ask around local businesses and offer your services to gain relevant experience. Internships, part-time jobs, or entry-level positions in HR-related roles can provide valuable experience and help you build a network within the field. Look for opportunities in recruiting, employee relations, HR administration, or talent management.
You don’t want to niche down into a specialised area too quickly. The more experience you get, the more you will discover which area you believe will truly become your passion.
The importance of qualifications and certifications
HR is a competitive field, so you need to ensure you implement a programme of continuous professional development. Many workplaces will be happy to sponsor you through these as they see it as a true investment in you.
Earning certifications such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) from organizations like the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
HR networking
Human resources is probably one of the most targeted disciplines within any sector. People management is a huge business, involving everything from benefits and wellbeing to disciplinary issues and legal representation.
Become involves in some of the many HR industry events and associations. Not only will you be privy to a myriad ways to improve your performance, but you will also meet many people who will provide you with the inspiration, motivation and mentorship to really take your career to the next level.
Such events will also allow you to keep up to date on the ever changing landscape of HR trends and best practices. The reason why HR is so popular is because the changes come from government level down – decisions made in the House of Commons can make a significant impact on the factory floor of a manufacturer in Macclesfield, and it could be up to you to take those changes and interpret them for you employer or client.
Developing transferable skills
Should you ever decide to move away from HR in the future, you can demonstrate a wide range of transferable skills that any employer would be grateful for. These skills include communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills. Developing these skills through coursework, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities can enhance your employability in any field.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to launching a career in HR. It’s essential to explore your interests, leverage your strengths, and pursue opportunities that align with your career goals and aspirations. Networking, continuous learning, and gaining practical experience will be key components of your journey into the field of human resources.
