How Can I Get A Job In HR?

An interesting side effect of working in HR and also being a job seeker advocate is that I am often approached with the question, “How can I get a job in HR?” My own professional path has been through various generalist and specialist functions that rolled together might be the typical classic definition of human resources, but my career has been far from typical. Someday it may be relevant to tell that story, but it is probably sufficient to just point out that I was a crossover from engineering into HR and most of it came about by serendipity and not by a pre-established plan. It was more of a mid-career correction that kept me on a path that had already begun to evolve. I found it interesting, but not surprising, to read an article last year presenting the findings of XpertHR’s 2011 research into HR careers and learn that 45% of HR practitioners had entered the profession by chance. What message does that give to those who chose this profession and have devoted considerable time and money pursuing the education necessary to prepare them for this role? Hopefully it is not a discouraging factor, but it should be eye-opening.

Before I answer the question about the best way to break into HR, I have a few questions of my own. Those expecting a patented solution are disappointed that I am not ready to give immediate endorsement to the answers they have already decided, but I think a dose of reality is more important than instant gratification.

Why do you want to work in HR? – The most common answers to this question are usually motherhood-and-apple-pie type quotes about desiring to work with people, wanting to help people or improving people’s lives. Hint: This is the wrong answer. Try to think of a job where these characteristics would not come into play on a daily basis. That’s life. If helping people is your only motivation and that is all you care about, let me be the first to break the news to you: that is a pretty shallow motivation. You should study to be a priest or bartender instead… but if you are sincere in your beliefs, let’s dig a little deeper.

Do you know what managing human resources is all is about? – This answer usually depends on how far along the HR education has progressed. Those exploring this as an educational option or making a mid-career change are usually very naïve about the day-to-day functions of HR. Anyone further along in their studies or looking to obtain a Masters Degree knows all about what to expect and could probably teach classes themselves, but we all know that theory is not the same as practical experience. Of all of the various resources that must be managed in a business, people are the most difficult. Property, buildings and money don’t talk back or have needs. While being a “people person” is not the best reason to choose HR, those who can’t deal with people should look elsewhere for a career.

What knowledge do you have that will make you successful? – Of course the basics of employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development and training, staffing, and workforce planning are essential. Taking this to the next level requires knowledge of the business and industry in which you are operating. You must understand a balance sheet, know about your company’s financial stability and be prepared to guide management in the strategic direction of the business where employees are the primary contributors to success. Formal education in these areas may be the best way to get started, but hands-on experience and self taught initiative through trial and error builds a strong leader.

Well, I’ve asked my three questions and if I have not completely talked someone out of considering a career in human resources the rest of the conversation will get very personal. There are so many aspects of specialization in HR that many generalists ultimately choose to pick an area of particular interest and strength to align with their career. For beginners, those specialist paths may be the answer you are looking for. Working in one of the specialist areas such as recruiting and staffing can lead to a broader career as a generalist over time. One final question: Did you think this was going to give you all the answers? Sorry to disappoint you.

 
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