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Getting started in HR
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Getting started in HR
Discuss your job search, the interviewing process, creating the right resume, how the HR profession's changes require new job-search approaches and related topics.
Hello everyone,
Am a BSc grad in Ind Chem with over 5 yrs work exp; 1 yr in paint Man, 2 yrs in banking (Teller, Customer Serv & Marketing), 2 yrs in car exporting as a Jr Accountant, 1 yr as a
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Forums » Topic Forums » HR Career Forum » Getting started in HR
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/9/2007 8:21 AM EDT
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Posts: 7
First: 7/9/2007 Last: 8/3/2007 |
Hello everyone,
Am a BSc grad in Ind Chem with over 5 yrs work exp; 1 yr in paint Man, 2 yrs in banking (Teller, Customer Serv & Marketing), 2 yrs in car exporting as a Jr Accountant, 1 yr as a Senior typist/clerk with SAP exp. With this diverse background, I think I've realized that I have a passion in HR and will do anything to get started in the career. I wanted to do an MBA (HR conc)but unfortunately cannot afford that. So I called up cornell univ for info for their HR studies cert program and was wondering if anyone could provide me with any info as per what kind of job in HR I should be looking at after getting my certificate. I'm also willing to take some training courses in SAP HR and SHRM cert as well. I will appreciate any advice, help or info as I embark on this transitioning journey. Thank you all. |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/9/2007 8:51 AM EDT
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Posts: 1103
First: 3/16/2007 Last: 8/19/2011 |
Excuse the directness but after all of thoser jobs and such a short tenure in each what caused the realization of the sudden passion for HR?
What is it about HR that you have this passion for? This isn't a profession that anyone can do, although some affilliated associations would have one think so. This is a business function requiring the skills of an accountant, a marketing specialist, a general manager, and an attorney (although I cringe at that one because some will take it literally). You will have to master all of those skills while maintaining creativity, developing strong negotiating skills and an ability to see solutions through to the end. There are a number of entry level administrative roles within HR that you could pursue such as HR Assistant, Benefits Assistant, etc. As you gain experience other roles will of course make themselves available to you. |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/9/2007 10:01 AM EDT
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Posts: 7
First: 7/9/2007 Last: 8/3/2007 |
Thank you HRPro,
Throughout my work experiences, I've had to deal with alot of pple with diff temperaments and I found it really fascinating and being able to provide solutions made it more thrilling but overall it has always been a puzzle to me on how companies are able to maximize their productivity, that sparks a curiousity in me and I would want to explore that. Thank you. |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/25/2007 4:42 AM EDT
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Posts: 3870
First: 2/12/2002 Last: 11/2/2009 |
Katie:
While I admire your enthusiasm, I have to question how much research you've done into this and your past career choices other than "that sparks a curiousity in me and I would want to explore that". You've had lots of diverse work experiences and I suspect you've not been happy with any of them. Before going off and spending a ton of money on something else, you might want to research and find a good career counselor first. A well qualified one should be able to uncover what professions you might be best suited for and help you along the path of the one you select. Good luck |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/25/2007 4:51 AM EDT
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Posts: 7
First: 7/9/2007 Last: 8/3/2007 |
Thank you nok,
My work experience has not really been something of choice. They were all out of bringing home the cake to my family. So after all the hopping around and all that, I feel it's time to start afresh with a new career and I thought with my customer service and administrative support experience that I could break into HR. But I guess I might not be able to get someone to advise on the forum cos everyone keeps thinking the passion I have for HR is not enough. I'll just follow my heart and do what my heart desires. |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 7/31/2007 7:09 AM EDT
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Posts: 237
First: 7/10/2007 Last: 8/31/2011 |
Although HR has become more technical and specialized there are still people who make a lateral move in to the field, especially at the entry level. Knowledge of the field usually comes form two sources, training (school) and work experience. A combination of the two is usually best. There are a lot of certificate programs around which will help you get your foot in the door for an HR Admin or entry level Generalist/Specialist/Representative position. Continue your training as you gain work experience. Most employers will be looking for a degree in field and some work experience for manager positions and above.
A back door: Your combination of skills in marketing, accounting and administration would be of interest to a small business or start-up company where you could wear multiple hats. You then take the career path you like the best. Good Luck |
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Getting started in HR
posted at 8/3/2007 3:48 AM EDT
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Posts: 13
First: 8/3/2007 Last: 8/7/2007 |
Katie,
I would suggest pursuing an HR internship while you are studying HR. These usually last a few months (a school semester for example) which will give you some real-world experience to help you decide if HR is right for you. If it is, then I would suggest getting a job as an HR Generalist or HR Represenative after school. I graduated from college about a year and a half ago with a degree in Business Administration concentrating in HR. I had an HR internship (which I loved) my entire senior year of college which turned into a full-time job as HR Representative for the company (a generalist role) after graduation. In this position you get to learn about ALL areas of HR and it's great. I hope this helps a little! |
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