Reading Time: 3 minutes How to Get into a Human Resources Career
This is a guest post by Christopher with tips on getting into a human resources career.
The field of Human Resources is quickly becoming a popular choice for careers as it is a sector that’s filled with great opportunities. It’s an area that’s expected to increase in terms of projected job positions in the future too, even with the rise of HR software so it’s the perfect time to get started on a career in HR. But how do you get started and what skills and qualifications are best suited to an HR job?
How to Get into a Human Resources Career
Qualifications and Education
HR is all about helping others so soft skills that focus on this area are key to a successful HR career. But there are plenty of other aspects to this role as well, from labor relations and program development to planning and organization, and even accounting skills. HR professionals enter this field from a wide variety of backgrounds, but many HR positions prefer candidates with a BA in Human Resources, personnel management or a related topic.
Having such a degree will set you apart from the competition. However, if you’re making the switch from another career then think about how you can use your current skills. You may also want to consider earning an HR-specific certification that can go towards helping you stand out from the crowd.
Valuable Skills Employers are Looking For
In a pressured and often busy environment, there are certain skills which will benefit you. If you’re looking to start a career in HR these skills include:
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Patience and a calm disposition
- Ambition and confidence to pursue new skills
- Discretion and trustworthiness when dealing with confidential issues
- Business acumen and an entrepreneurial mindset
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strategic thinking skills
- The ability to work to tight deadlines and meet targets
- Organization skills and the ability to work on several projects at one time
- Great team-working skills
Finding HR Positions
There are many jobs within the HR sector to consider, from HR Managers to Administrative Assistants. As with any other job, job boards can help you find local positions. They also help you see typically required skills and qualifications for the type of role you’re applying. Some businesses will often look internally before advertising a position. So keep this in mind if you’re looking to enter the HR department at your current company. It’s also worth speaking to your HR department about your interest in joining this field. It’s possible that your interest might open doors for you.
Alternatively, you may want to consider an internship which will help you gain some of the skills you might be lacking and also gives a great insight into what working in this field actually entails. Whether you’re just starting out or you want to make the switch from another career path, internships can be beneficial in helping you realize your dreams of working in the world of HR.
Rachel is an Austin blogger, educator, mom, wife, young breast cancer survivor writing about health, saving money, and living a happy life in Austin, Texas.
Rachel has written for HuffPost and Hometalk and has been featured on KXAN, Studio 512, Fox 7 Austin, and CBS Austin.