Prepare for a Career in Human Resources
Human resource (HR) professionals are responsible for managing relationships between employees and the companies they work for. They are also in charge of recruiting new workers, training, compensation and benefits administration. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the field to grow rapidly, provide job opportunities for professionals currently in the field, and college graduates looking to enter the field. Prepare for a career in human resources by getting a minimum of a college degree, and learning everything you can about labor management.
Steps
- Get a degree. The education levels of human resources professionals vary by position title and responsibilities. Obtaining a bachelor's degree or a higher level of education is the best way to keep career options open.
- Take classes in business management, psychology, law, finance, economics, statistics, and public administration. There is no prescribed major, as long as your curriculum is well-rounded.
- Pursue an MBA if you plan to work your way up to become a Human Resources Manager, Director, or Vice President.
- Develop excellent communication skills. You will be required to work with employees at every level of a company, from the lowest paid worker to the CEO.
- Plan to work with diverse populations. You will likely work with people from all age groups, ethnic backgrounds, cultures, and religions.
- Join professional organizations. The Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) is a group that helps human resources professionals stay current in their field. There is also the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD).
- Look for opportunities to become certified in human resources areas. Professional organizations offer trainings, classes, and certifications for HR professionals.
- Consider obtaining a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from SHRM. As you gain experience in your career, go for the Senior Professional in Human Resources certification (SPHR).
- Network with other HR professionals. The above mentioned professional organizations offer a multitude of networking opportunities and other resources for professional development.
- Pay attention to developments in the field.
- Read publications and subscribe to e-newsletters provided by SHRM and other groups.
- Keep up on current events concerning unemployment, hiring statistics, court cases involving employment law, and other matters concerning workers or employers.
- Consider whether you want to specialize. Most HR professionals are generalists.
- Be a generalist if you would prefer to work for a small company and handle all HR matters. This career path will allow you not only to learn about all HR functions, but also to apply them on a daily basis.
- Become a specialist if there is an area of HR that interests you more than others. HR professionals can specialize in recruitment, training, employment law, compensations, or benefits.
- Obtain an internship, or entry level position in the HR department of a company. This will help you understand the daily responsibilities of human resources professionals.
- Develop relationships wherever you intern or work. This will help you when it comes time to move up into a position with more responsibility, or look for another job in a different company.
Tips
- Remember that as an HR professional, you will have access to privileged and confidential information about your company and its employees. Be prepared to exercise extreme discretion at all times.
