The HR field has become increasingly specialized in recent years. Laws and regulations for HR change frequently and can have serious consequences on a business if not followed correctly. Because of this, employers are looking for people that have studied HR-related fields at accredited four-year colleges to fill HR jobs. If you wish to advance to an HR manager job or executive HR jobs, you should also seriously consider continuing your education with graduate studies. Many companies will not promote or hire anyone to an HR manager job without a graduate degree such as Masters in Business Administration (MBA).
If you are still in college and know that you one day would like an HR manager job, interning in an HR department is essential. HR interns typically tend to more basic office functions such as answering telephones, making copies or filing, but an HR internship is a great way to gain some practical experience in the HR world as well as making contacts that may help you find great HR job opportunities after you have graduated. Be sure to work hard and ask your supervisor for a letter of recommendation when your program has been completed.
Before you graduate, it is highly recommended that you take a course in business writing. Such a class will teach you how to write an impressive and professional resume and cover letter, with the added benefit of teaching you what to look for in the resumes you receive once you have earned an entry level HR job.
Once you have secured an entry level HR job, learn everything you can from your HR manager. HR assistant jobs are very common and can give you valuable experience as you advance in your career. As an HR assistant, keep track of your work, especially in percentages and numbers. When applying for the next HR job up the ladder, being able to put numbers such as employee turnover rates or employee satisfaction on your resume or cover letter is always helpful.
When you are ready to make the jump to HR manager jobs, consider contacting a recruiter for help in finding other HR job opportunities. Many companies have relatively small HR departments with limited room for growth and many quality HR job opportunities are not listed in the classified section of newspapers anymore, but an employment specialist, or recruiter, can help you find your next HR job.
