With the opportunity to work in a wide range of companies and industries, human resourcing can be a challenging but rewarding profession. However, landing a role as a HR professional is competitive and it pays to be as prepared as possible to improve your chances once you have graduated. 

So if you are interested in working in this industry, here are some tips to help kickstart your HR career.

Do you need a HR degree?

You may feel like a career in human resources is something you would like to explore but as you come to the end of one, seemingly unrelated, degree do you need to begin another to land your dream HR role?

Most companies and agencies are simply seeking to place graduates in HR roles, but it’s worth considering these points: 

• A HR-specific degree can be advantageous, but not always required.
• A degree in a relevant subject, for example business management, finance or social sciences may be valued.
• Aim for at least a 2:1 degree classification while at university.
• Consider postgraduate education, to improve your chances, such as professional or accredited courses from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Develop your key skills

The great thing about a career in HR is that you can bring transferable skills from other forms of education and employment. What matters most is the development of the key skills to make a success of a career in human resources, which include, communication, organisation, customer service and Employment law

Understanding the basics and core principles of what the HR role entails allows you to put the essential building blocks in place to prepare you for working in this industry.

Building your experience

Many companies are seeking experience from their recruits but when you have recently graduated, how can you get said experience? There are a number of ways to gain the right experience to not only help you in your future job role and tasks, but to also show to potential employers that you are motivated to make your career a success.

• Internship opportunities – many companies offer these and they are a great way to take your first steps on the career ladder.
• Entry-level jobs – securing a role within HR administration, starting at ground level and working your way up.
• Volunteering – offering your services for a short time in return for practical work experience that can enhance your portfolio and understanding of the industry.

Networking expands your reach

Networking and finding a HR mentor can also provide useful career guidance, helping you to find roles through the connections you make and 

While networking with other HR professionals is key, also consider reaching out to experts in related fields, such as recruitment, management consulting and digital marketing. For example, connecting with a digital marketing and SEO expert could provide valuable insight into how HR and marketing strategies can align to better attract and retain top talent.

Continuous learning is key

One challenge that faces all people who work in HR is keeping up with the ever-evolving regulations, workplace issues and best practices. Continuous training is essential, even for people who have just completed a qualification, and you can set yourself apart from your competition by keeping abreast of the latest industry developments.

Don’t be afraid to explore your options too, as HR careers span a range of elements relevant to professional life. This includes recruitment, employee relations, training and workforce planning, each with its own set of guidelines and regulations to learn and adapt to a HR role within a given company.

With the right qualifications, skills, experience and mindset, you can land a HR job and work your way up in this diverse and rewarding field. Stay determined, and you’ll be on your way to a successful career in human resources.

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Big thanks to Dakota Murphey for writing this blog!

Dakota Murphey is an established freelance writer who regularly contributes to a number of authoritative resources online. She specialises in eCommerce, Digital Business, Marketing, Public Relations, Human Resources, Company Growth and Cybersecurity.

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