5 Steps to Become a Human Resource Manager

Human resources are one of the fast-growing areas in the industry. According to BLS (Bureau of Labour Statistics), the number of jobs in this area is estimated to increase at 9% annually. The remuneration in human resources is comparatively higher than other roles. BLS estimates the median salary of the Human Resource Manager is $116,720. 

Role of human resources 

Human resources have undergone a massive transformation in the last decade. Today the role of human resources managers entails a lot more than it did a few years ago. The human resource function is responsible for managing the employee-employer relationship, recruitment, learning and development, employee benefits, and much more. 

 The influence of technology and entry of a new generation of the workforce (Gen Z) has led organizations to adopt new workplace policies, where human resources are instrumental.  

 How to become a human resources manager in five easy steps.

 1. Get a bachelor’s degree 

 Most employers don’t seek a specialized degree in human resources. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree, a candidate is fine to work in human resources. However, if you have already made up your mind to get into human resources. A bachelor’s degree in human resources management is the way to go about it. The degree will you an insight into the nitty-gritty of the human resources function. 

Globally universities offer programs in human resources at the bachelor’s level. You can also opt for online university programs and degrees. 

 2. Take an internship 

 You can go for an internship right after your bachelor’s degree as many companies offer internship programs. To procure an internship, you will need good communication and interpersonal skills. As part of the internship, you can gain experience in recruitment, employee onboarding, conducting orientation sessions, and more. 

 3. Find an entry-level job 

 Your best chance to find an entry-level job in human resources is to focus on your academics. Corporate recruiters visit college campuses to hire for human resource associates and similar roles. Your internship experience, volunteer work in human resources, and related experience would help to get through interviews. Additionally, you can apply through online job portals for entry-level roles. 

 4. Pursue advance education 

 For a few roles like industrial or labor relations, an advanced degree in human resources is necessary. You can earn a master’s degree in a broad discipline in areas such as organizational leadership, employment negotiation, etc. Taking a graduate course can teach you techniques in project management, strategic planning, contract negotiation, arbitration, and mediation. 

 5. Get certified 

 TMI (Talent Management Institute), SHRM ( Society for Human Resources Management ), HRCI ( Human Resources Certification Institute ) are a few globally-recognized HR certification bodies. These bodies offer HR certifications for professionals of all levels of experience –entry-level, intermediate-level, and senior-level. Level of experience is a pre-requite for taking a certification, so chose a certification based on your experience. Entry-level certifications such as PHR (Professional in Human Resources) by HRCI, TMP (Talent Management Practitioner) by TMI, and SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) offered by SHRM are doorways fir entry into human resources. 

Taking a certification validates your skills and makes you more credible in the eyes of employers. 

Alternative career paths 

 In addition to human resources manager, roles like labor relations specialist are equally in demand. A labor relations specialist acts as a conduit between management and laborers. The specialist investigates labor issues and addresses their concerns related to wages, pensions, benefits, salary, and union activities. 

 Human resources have never a more important function as it is today. The competition for human resources jobs will elevate. The sooner you learn new skills and implement them, the faster you can ahead in an HR career.