How to Become a Human Resources Professional

A common question among people seeking information about business degrees is how to become a human resources professional. Human resources professionals contribute greatly to the company’s success. Their roles have transformed through the years and now go beyond just taking charge of hiring qualified people for the organization and ensuring that employees get the right benefits. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job opportunities for these professionals will experience an upswing in the next 10 years, faster than the national average.

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The job of a human resources professional is challenging but rewarding. Being a recession-proof position, job security can be enjoyed for the long term.

The main responsibilities of HR professionals cover recruiting and hiring people, conducting trainings for personal development, developing company policies and procedures as well as employee surveys, managing employee wages and benefits and addressing issues between employees and management.

If you’re an individual with interest in human behavior and have strong leadership as well as communication skills, a career in the field of human resources may be the right choice. You will be involved in a role that helps companies and organizations manage their staff to ensure that they meet their goals moving forward. Your goal is to establish positive relationships between the management and employees as well as among the rank and file and ensure job satisfaction through the provision of appropriate wages and benefits.

Getting the right education is the first step towards attaining your goal of becoming an HR professional. There are various disciplines that you can choose from such as a degree in psychology, sociology, business, education and other social sciences. A bachelor’s degree in psychology, however, is often a common requirement as this is what provides students the basic knowledge in human behavior. There are also a variety of business degrees that can lead to a position in human resources.

Getting into an internship program before completing your bachelor’s degree is also very important. In this way, you get exposed to the real work environment and have the opportunity to meet the HR executives who have been in their posts for long years. Keep in mind that many employers also consider the internship period as an initial work experience.

An opportunity for career advancement and higher pay is possible for those who pursue their master’s degree. This will help you move up to a higher position in the organization from being a mere HR staff to becoming a manager.

After completing your degree, you can then prepare your applications to companies you’re targeting as your potential employers. Make sure you write a resume and personal statement that stands out from the rest.

You can also obtain your HR certifications after gaining some years of experience in the field. To secure this certification, professionals must show their expertise in HR practice. There are various types that you can obtain today and these include the Professional in Human Resources, Certified Personnel Consultants, Certified Compensation Professional, Certified Professional in Learning and Performance and the Myers-Brigs Type Indicator.

In addition, you could join HR organizations to expand your network. Becoming a member will enable you meet other professionals in the field and get to know about other specialty areas.

Now that you know how to become a human resources professional, it’s time to decide if this career path would be a good fit for you.

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