Preparation Requirements for a Human Resources Career

Preparation Requirements for a Human Resources CareerPreparation Requirements for a Human Resources CareerAre you interested in a carer in menschengerecht resources (HR)? HR departments contribute to a companys employee recruitment and selection, employee development, employee retention, organizational culture, and a positive, motivating work environment, which are critical to business success. Companies now seek HRs leadership and guidance. To enter the HR field, you must meet some extremum requirements. Preparing for a Career in Human Resources In smaller companies, one or a few staff members may wear many hats and perform HR generalist work with responsibility for all aspects of menschlich resources. In larger companies, an HR Director or Vice President might head up multiple departments led by managers who specialize in areas such as training and development, compensation and benefits, or labor relations. Because of the variety of positions in the field, you have a great oppo rtunity to find a work setting that suits your skills and strengths, your preference for company size, or your desire to specialize or generalize. To prepare yourself for a successful career in menschlich resources, consider pursuing degrees and qualifications that fit the role. Degrees That Complement a Career in Human Resources The Occupational Outlook Handbook believes that HR career and job opportunities will continue to be most available for people who keep ansicht three key points in mind Educational backgrounds of HR workers vary considerably and reflect the diversity of duties and levels of responsibility. (They are also dependent on where you want to live and work and any competition that may exist in that marketplace.)Certifications and previous experience are assets for most HRspecialtiesand are essential for more advanced positions, including managers, arbitrators, and mediators.Having both a college degree and an earned certification can open the door to the best jo b opportunities. Many colleges and universities have educational programs that lead to degrees in human resources, HR specialties such as training and development, or business. Depending on the school you choose, you will find courses that lead to a career in HR management in departments such as business, education, instructional design or technology, organization development, human services, communication, and public administration. Complementary Coursework for HR Positions People who want to work successfully in Human Resources should take courses in business, social sciences such as psychology and sociology, and finance. The Occupational Outlook Handbook specifically recommends Most prospective human resources specialists should take courses in compensation, recruitment, training and development, and performance appraisal, as well as courses in principles of management, organizational structure, and industrial psychology. Other relevant courses for students who have an inter est in human resources might include business administration, public administration, psychology, sociology, political science, economics, and statistics. The Growing Importance of a Graduate Degree If youre considering a career in human resources, many professionals choose to pursue a Masters degree in human resources, organizational development, business administration (MBA), and other related subjects. Increasingly, you need a Masters degree if you expect to be competitive for the best, most desirable, high-paying HR jobs. Some HR professionals say that the Masters is the new Bachelors degree in the field. Because of the challenge of employment law, more human resources professionals are obtaining law degrees or transferring into HR from the legal profession. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook Many labor relations jobs require graduate study in industrial or labor relations. A strong background in industrial relations and law is highly desirable for contract negoti ators, mediators, and arbitrators in fact, many people in these specialties are lawyers. A background in law also is desirable for employee benefits managers and others who must interpret the growing number of laws and regulations. A masters degree in human resources, labor relations, or in business administration with a concentration in human resources management is highly recommended for those seeking general and top management positions. Top Qualifications for HR Job Candidates While education is important, your other qualification and skills can be equally as important as your coursework and degree. Some of the key skills and personal qualifications you will need to work successfully in human resources include the following. Effective interpersonal skills so you can interact successfully with all employees in the organizationKnowledge of computers and information systems since HRIS has become central in documentation and employee self-service.Effective spoken and written com municationComfort with diverse people with various educational levels, cultural heritage, religious practices, ages, work experience, and opinionsUnderstanding of statistics and financeConflict resolution skills to both initiate and mediate workplace conflicts Ability to set and accomplish goals and work as a member of a teamA high level of integrity, confidentiality, and fairness Entry-Level Job Opportunities and Gaining Experience It is difficult to break into a career in human resources above the entry level. Successive positions at the HR generalist and manager level, or above, require the knowledge and experience obtained in entry-level positions. Occasionally, experienced individuals who have held managerial-type positions in business, government, or the military might be considered for positions above entry level. If you fall into that camp, you might consider obtaining certifications or taking coursework related to your area of interest to further prepare yourself for a career in HR. If youre seeking an entry-level HR position, try to obtain some experience while youre in college as an intern. Even part-time work or an internship in other fields adds to your potential as a candidate. Leadership roles in clubs, volunteer experiences, club or college sports, and real-world projects for a company add to your credibility as a candidate. HR is a rewarding field with many benefits both emotionally and can provide stability and good income. Seek additional information from your college placement offices and counselors or talk with people working in HR where you want to live and work.