9 answers
9 answers
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi kayla,
It will depend on what kind of work that you would like to do. Human Resources is a broad field. For the most part, central to human resources is caring about the success of people within your organization. This will require you to have good communication skills - both verbal and written. You should also consider how you would like to support people in Human Resources. For example, I am in Learning and Development. I used my desire to teach into a profession where I create training that other people use to do their jobs better. So ask yourself - what role you would want to play in Human Resources? Check out some roles on sites like this one: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-human-resources-jobs to give you a sense of the skills required for the jobs.
Gloria
It will depend on what kind of work that you would like to do. Human Resources is a broad field. For the most part, central to human resources is caring about the success of people within your organization. This will require you to have good communication skills - both verbal and written. You should also consider how you would like to support people in Human Resources. For example, I am in Learning and Development. I used my desire to teach into a profession where I create training that other people use to do their jobs better. So ask yourself - what role you would want to play in Human Resources? Check out some roles on sites like this one: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-human-resources-jobs to give you a sense of the skills required for the jobs.
Gloria
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
kayla
Updated
Mayra’s Answer
Hi Kayla!
In terms of education, there are bachelor's Degrees in Human Resources (HR). If the college of your choice doesn't offer that degree then consider a business administration degree with an emphasis on Human Resources. Another thought is obtaining a certificate in Human Resources which doesn't require a degree. There are many options on how to obtain education in this field I suggest speaking to a career counselor at your school for guidance on choosing a degree if you are set on pursuing HR.
If you are still unsure about HR then I would suggest applying for internships or volunteer work specifically in HR. Now, this helps you in two ways, it will give you more clarity on whether this is something you want to do. Secondly, this helps build your resume, so that when you are ready to apply for a paid entry-level job in HR, you will have some build experience that will help you break into the industry a lot faster.
I would also, encourage you to conduct information interviews which essentially means talking to professionals who are currently in HR and asking questions, like how did they get this job? What advice do you have for me? etc Google "informational interviews" and you will get a ton of information on how to conduct one. Lastly, HR is pretty broad I would also recommend looking at the different roles within HR, here are some example titles to research, HR Generalist, HR Assistant/Coordinator, HRIS Analyst, Benefits Analyst, HR Specialist, HR Training, Talent Acquisition,etc
Good Luck!
In terms of education, there are bachelor's Degrees in Human Resources (HR). If the college of your choice doesn't offer that degree then consider a business administration degree with an emphasis on Human Resources. Another thought is obtaining a certificate in Human Resources which doesn't require a degree. There are many options on how to obtain education in this field I suggest speaking to a career counselor at your school for guidance on choosing a degree if you are set on pursuing HR.
If you are still unsure about HR then I would suggest applying for internships or volunteer work specifically in HR. Now, this helps you in two ways, it will give you more clarity on whether this is something you want to do. Secondly, this helps build your resume, so that when you are ready to apply for a paid entry-level job in HR, you will have some build experience that will help you break into the industry a lot faster.
I would also, encourage you to conduct information interviews which essentially means talking to professionals who are currently in HR and asking questions, like how did they get this job? What advice do you have for me? etc Google "informational interviews" and you will get a ton of information on how to conduct one. Lastly, HR is pretty broad I would also recommend looking at the different roles within HR, here are some example titles to research, HR Generalist, HR Assistant/Coordinator, HRIS Analyst, Benefits Analyst, HR Specialist, HR Training, Talent Acquisition,etc
Good Luck!
Updated
SABITHA’s Answer
I have found that in any profession and especially in human resources, you have to know and understand the other person's perspective even if it is different from yours. Communication is also very important as what you say matters, but how you say it matters even more. As a human resource professional you will probably at some point in your career be responsible for recruitment, training, compensation , conflict resolution and building a positive work culture. You will also require to have some understanding of what the day-to-day looks like for professionals in the industry of your choice.
I would recommend you start with a degree in Management and depending on the industry you would like to work in select a minor that will give you some exposure to the careers in that specific industry. I would educate myself on topics that will be of relevance to the people I would like to work with, as a starting point. For example: if you would like to work for a hospital system, I would look at a minor in Health policy or even biology to give you some depth. If you want to work for a technology company I would suggest a minor in human machine interaction or graphic design or computer science depending on your interest.
I would recommend you start with a degree in Management and depending on the industry you would like to work in select a minor that will give you some exposure to the careers in that specific industry. I would educate myself on topics that will be of relevance to the people I would like to work with, as a starting point. For example: if you would like to work for a hospital system, I would look at a minor in Health policy or even biology to give you some depth. If you want to work for a technology company I would suggest a minor in human machine interaction or graphic design or computer science depending on your interest.
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hi Kayla! There are lots of different ways to enter the HR field. My major in college was anthropology, which doesn't seem like a "traditional" major to go into HR. But I was in charge of recruitment for one of the clubs I participated in, so I was able to apply that experience to an entry-level recruiting job at a consulting firm after graduating. I learned a lot about the basics of working in the corporate world from that job, and then I applied the skills I learned there in future interviews to branch out into other parts of HR. So in addition to all of the great advice others have given on this thread, my recommendation would be to think about the experiences you've had and skills you've learned so far (whether that was in a classroom setting or in extracurriculars, internships, past jobs, etc) and how you could put those to use towards a first job in recruiting, benefits, training & development, HR generalist roles, etc. Then as you continue to learn more skills in that first job, you'll be able to use those as a stepping stone to other jobs as you learn about what type of HR work interests you the most. And my other piece of advice would be to not worry too much about finding the "perfect" first job, since there's plenty you can learn from any role even if it isn't the exact one you thought you wanted, especially when you're first starting out in your career.
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Kayla -
To qualify as a Human Resources (HR) Manager, you’ll need a combination of education, skills, and experience. Here are the key qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree: Typically in HR management, business administration, or a related field.
Some positions may require a master’s degree1.
Skills and Experience:
People Management: Previous experience on people management teams is essential.
HR Skills: Familiarity with recruiting, benefits, policies, payroll, and employee relations.
Consider certifications like Certified HR Manager (CHRM) or SHRM-SCP2.
Optional:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a master’s degree in HR for advanced roles.
Remember, continuous learning and staying updated on labor laws are crucial for success in this field!
To qualify as a Human Resources (HR) Manager, you’ll need a combination of education, skills, and experience. Here are the key qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree: Typically in HR management, business administration, or a related field.
Some positions may require a master’s degree1.
Skills and Experience:
People Management: Previous experience on people management teams is essential.
HR Skills: Familiarity with recruiting, benefits, policies, payroll, and employee relations.
Consider certifications like Certified HR Manager (CHRM) or SHRM-SCP2.
Optional:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a master’s degree in HR for advanced roles.
Remember, continuous learning and staying updated on labor laws are crucial for success in this field!
Updated
Candace’s Answer
As others have shared there are many directions you can go with HR. You can choose one of the directions or begin as an HR Generalist to be exposed to all areas and then decide what you want to do. You can also learn more about the profession by visiting the Society for Human Resources website - SHRM.org.
I began as a Recruiter, moved into an HR Business Partner (HRBP) role, and eventually into the Learning & Development field as a Leadership Development Consultant and Coach. This is over a span of 30+ years. Each role prepared me for the next as I began to learn about working with people and how an organization operates.
In the HRBP role I was a generalist in a smaller organization. This provided me with a broad view and performing the tasks of several HR roles - employee relations, professional development, and benefits. By having the exposure to these areas I discovered professional development is where I wanted to go.
I began as a Recruiter, moved into an HR Business Partner (HRBP) role, and eventually into the Learning & Development field as a Leadership Development Consultant and Coach. This is over a span of 30+ years. Each role prepared me for the next as I began to learn about working with people and how an organization operates.
In the HRBP role I was a generalist in a smaller organization. This provided me with a broad view and performing the tasks of several HR roles - employee relations, professional development, and benefits. By having the exposure to these areas I discovered professional development is where I wanted to go.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
You could consider to take the business administration and management course as your major in the college. As far as I know, there are universities / colleges having business administrator and management course having specialized in human resources.
In addition to course work in university/college, good communication skill and understand people behaviour is also important working in HR. I suggest you can take courses to learn the relevant knowledge.
Also, when you studying the university, you can explore the intern opportunities to work in the HR department. It helps you to acquire experience and knowledge how HR works.
Before becoming a human resources manager, you may need to work in HR department to gain experience and understand the business process. If you perform well, you can be promoted into HR Manager.
Hope it helps! Good Luck!
In addition to course work in university/college, good communication skill and understand people behaviour is also important working in HR. I suggest you can take courses to learn the relevant knowledge.
Also, when you studying the university, you can explore the intern opportunities to work in the HR department. It helps you to acquire experience and knowledge how HR works.
Before becoming a human resources manager, you may need to work in HR department to gain experience and understand the business process. If you perform well, you can be promoted into HR Manager.
Hope it helps! Good Luck!
Updated
Tanya’s Answer
It may not be a requirement but I do know some employers prefer hiring someone who has a HR certification. There are two certification institutes: HRCI and SHRM. Would highly recommend looking into these options as I learned a lot through my studying journey for my PHR.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kayla!
To be qualified for a Human Resources (HR) Manager position, you typically need a combination of education, experience, and relevant skills. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
Education: A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field is usually the minimum requirement. Some employers may prefer or require a Master’s degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or a similar field.
Experience: Most HR Manager positions require at least 2-5 years of experience in human resources, preferably in various roles such as HR Generalist, HR Specialist, or HR Coordinator. This experience helps you gain a comprehensive understanding of HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance.
Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining a professional certification can enhance your qualifications and make you a more competitive candidate. Some popular HR certifications include:
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)
Skills: HR Managers should possess a range of skills, including:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with employees, managers, and external stakeholders
Knowledge of employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance
Ability to analyze data and make strategic decisions related to workforce planning, talent management, and organizational development
Proficiency in HR information systems and technology
Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
Experience in recruitment, onboarding, and employee training
Soft skills: In addition to technical expertise, HR Managers should demonstrate strong leadership, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to fostering a positive work environment.
To pursue a career in Human Resources, consider gaining relevant experience through internships or entry-level positions, networking with professionals in the field, and staying updated on industry trends and best practices.
GOD BLESS!
To be qualified for a Human Resources (HR) Manager position, you typically need a combination of education, experience, and relevant skills. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
Education: A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field is usually the minimum requirement. Some employers may prefer or require a Master’s degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or a similar field.
Experience: Most HR Manager positions require at least 2-5 years of experience in human resources, preferably in various roles such as HR Generalist, HR Specialist, or HR Coordinator. This experience helps you gain a comprehensive understanding of HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance.
Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining a professional certification can enhance your qualifications and make you a more competitive candidate. Some popular HR certifications include:
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)
Skills: HR Managers should possess a range of skills, including:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with employees, managers, and external stakeholders
Knowledge of employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance
Ability to analyze data and make strategic decisions related to workforce planning, talent management, and organizational development
Proficiency in HR information systems and technology
Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
Experience in recruitment, onboarding, and employee training
Soft skills: In addition to technical expertise, HR Managers should demonstrate strong leadership, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to fostering a positive work environment.
To pursue a career in Human Resources, consider gaining relevant experience through internships or entry-level positions, networking with professionals in the field, and staying updated on industry trends and best practices.
GOD BLESS!