The human resource industry is a fast-growing field with a lot of opportunities. Human resources or HR has a lot of areas within it that you'll have the chance to choose from if you want to pursue a career in HR. Career analysts predict that the number of HR jobs will increase in the coming years.
Moreover, every company needs an HR personnel to help them oversee employee recruitment, administer employee benefits and manage employee relations, among other things. However, most people don't understand how critical the HR department is to the organization's growth and success.
Remember that people and not machines are the most valuable assets an organization possesses. Therefore, if you want to pursue a career in HR, there are several things you need to familiarize yourself with to become a good HR professional. It is key to remember your professional resume is your first impression. This article will discuss everything you need to know about a career in HR
Being good with people isn't enough qualification to start a career in human resources. While it is an excellent skill, it isn't enough to succeed in your HR career. The HR field is becoming more refined and dynamic, and employers are increasing their expectations when searching for HR professionals
Most human resource jobs require that you have formal primary education before being hired. If you're looking for entry-level HR jobs, earning an associate's or bachelor's degree in human resources will be sufficient. Also, some companies might require a bachelor's degree in psychology or business before hiring you.
Furthermore, a postgraduate degree in human resources will prepare you for high-level leadership roles in the HR industry. Aside from making you eligible for senior-level positions, it also makes you qualified for high-salary benefits.
Many organizations love to hire HR professionals with some form of industry experience. It doesn't matter what type of industry it is; it can be legal, healthcare, or tech. Often, it is best to have the expertise before applying for some HR roles.
If you're planning on pursuing a career in HR and don't know what field you'd like to specialize in, you can start by volunteering or interning at consulting or recruiting firms to gain experience. Some of these firms will allow you to gain experience in their different departments before your internship is over.
Aside from experience and academic qualifications, certification and training also boost your chances of getting HR jobs. Several companies watch out for HR personnel with additional accreditation when hiring, and most senior-level HR professionals have at least one certification.
Furthermore, certifications allow you to become well versed in areas like employee development, relations, and training. You can get your HR certification from institutes like the Society for Human Resource Management or the Human Resource Certification Institute.
Now that you understand the qualifications required for a career in HR, you need to understand the different career paths you can pursue in an HR career. Career paths in HR are relatively simple, but they vary according to the organization or company.
An HR officer or assistant is an entry-level HR role. While a bachelor's degree in human resources is required, it's not necessary. As an HR assistant, you'll be in charge of termination, completing administrative paperwork for new employees, dealing with workplace problems about wages, and employee absence from work.
As an HR manager, you'll be responsible for ensuring all the company's activities comply with the governmental laws. You'll also be in charge of overseeing company policies and procedures.
Similarly, an HR manager is involved with budget development and business planning and oversees all HR programs in the company. To be an HR manager, you'll have to earn a bachelor's degree and have at least five years of experience
You can play a variety of roles as an HR director. As an HR director, you can be responsible for managing HR managers or being in charge of several HR departments in the company. Also, an HR director acts as a partner to the employees in the organization and helps with all complaints and problems employees have about the HR process.
Furthermore, as an HR director, you might be required to partake in team-building, training, and recruitment activities. To be an HR director, you'll need to earn a master's degree and have at least 8 - 10 years of experience.
CHRO is the highest position you can attain in human resources. The chief human resource officer works closely with the CEO and other company executives. You'll be in charge of managing all the HR departments of your organization. Not to mention setting up programs to train low-level HR personnel.
Furthermore, to become a chief human resource officer, you'll need a master's degree and about 15 years of experience in human resources. Most CHROs also have one or more HR certifications under their belt.
If you love helping people, the HR career path is for you. A career in HR comprises so many things. Often, people downplay the importance of HR professionals in the job industry. Pursuing a career in HR allows you to make a significant difference while contributing to organizational success.
Similarly, a career in HR also allows you to specialize in whatever field you want, depending on your experience and educational qualifications. A career in HR offers you job security, high salary privileges, a chance to interact with people, and the opportunity to grow.
Making a career choice is a significant part of an individual's life. If you're planning a career in HR, you have to choose a career path that fits your personality, goals, and interests. Take a look at all that has been discussed in this article when you're making your choice.
