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SPHR or PHR?
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I'm considering taking the test for either the PHR or SPHR - but am in a quandry as to which one I should take. It seems as though one focuses on the technical side of HR (PHR) and one on the more str
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SPHR or PHR?

posted at 8/9/1999 2:25 AM EDT
Posts: 67
First: 7/20/1999
Last: 6/30/2000
I'm considering taking the test for either the PHR or SPHR - but am in a quandry as to which one I should take. It seems as though one focuses on the technical side of HR (PHR) and one on the more strategic side. I'm probably not as strong in the technical aspects of HR, but do have an MBA, which gives me a stategic perspective.

Since my company is not willing to pay for the test or the classes to prep for either test, I'd like to take the one I have the greatest chance of passing!! I'm aware both are standardized tests.

Any ideas/experiences would be appreciated.

Thanks much.

SPHR or PHR?

posted at 8/9/1999 3:08 AM EDT
Posts: 31
First: 6/30/1999
Last: 10/7/1999
Visit the SHRM website (http://www.shrm.org/hrci.) The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) lists frequently asked questions about the PHR and SPHR tests and when and where they are scheduled. The 1999 HRCI Handbook is also available for download.

SPHR or PHR?

posted at 8/9/1999 6:53 PM EDT
Posts: 67
First: 7/20/1999
Last: 6/30/2000
Lynne, thanks for the info. I think I didn't write what I meant to, though! I've taken/seen the mini-exams, but still don't have a good feel for which would be better to take.

If there is anyone who has taken either one or both of these tests, I'd appreciate your feedback. Does one feed off the other? Do you need to know PHR info in order to fare well on the SPHR?

Although I can get stats on percentages of questions from the body of knowledge for each test, that STILL doesn't help me.

Thanks.

SPHR or PHR?

posted at 8/10/1999 5:32 AM EDT
Posts: 1
First: 8/10/1999
Last: 8/10/1999
I asked myself the same question. I ended up deciding upon the SPHR for a couple of reasons. First, it seems to be the harder one, thus prestige. Second, I tend to do bettter with broader, high level questions (i.e., the intent of FLSA is to do what...rather than FLSA was adopted in which year). Third, I like the challenge.

As it turns out, the SPHR and (from what I hear) the PHR are very similar. Only the number of questions for each category are different. So, if you meet the qualifications for the SPHR and the questions are basically the same only the mix is a bit different, why not go for the SPHR?

I was personally suprised at how few detail questions there were. There were no date type questions (when did this happen), scenerio questions (a story is told and you pick what the appropriate action to take), or calculation questions (determine overtime for this person). Most of the questions are just like the questions out of the study guide. If you're multiple question test taking skills are good and you know the buzzwords and the HR concepts in the study guide, you'll do just fine.

Good luck.

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