Associate degree holders are usually hired as human resources generalists. HR assistants, recruiters, payroll assistants, and clerks are some of the most common jobs for graduates that possess an associate degree. If you have an associate degree and you want to advance in the HR field, consider continuing your education. Advanced degrees, combined with HR experience, will help you get more specialized HR jobs. If you are already working in the HR field, ask your employer if they offer any incentives for you to continue your education. Even if they don’t, many universities offer night, weekend, or online classes so you can go to school while also working. [2] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source
As an HR major, you will study a range of topics, such as ethics, employment law, communications, office technology. Use your elective options to study things that will advance your career. For instance, you’ll have to manage harassment cases in the office. You can deepen your understanding of hostile workplace dynamics by taking entry-level courses in gender studies, women’s studies, or the history of labor. A major in human resources is ideal, but graduates who majored in other fields are frequently hired to fill these positions. This is especially true if you have human resources work experience or a degree in a related field such as finance, business management, education, or information technology.
The main certification organization is the HR Certification Institute. The HRCI offers many different levels of certification based on your education and length of time working as a human resource professional. [6] X Research source
If your employer or a HR organization offers a workshop, consider attending. Online workshops and webinars have become increasingly common. These remove the need to travel, and will allow you to network with people all over the world. Subscribe to HR publications. Workforce Magazine and HR Professionals Magazine address developments in the HR field. The International Journal of Human Resources Management is a research journal focused on HR trends. Publications such as these will keep you up to date on issues in the human resources field, and help you to succeed in your career.
Job fairs and online job boards are great places to find information about internships. If there is a company you are particularly interested in interning for, contact them and see if they have any open internships. If you are in school, talk to your professors about your desire for an internship. They may know of open positions. Visit the career development center at your school; they will be able to help you locate available internships. Look for an internship in the sector you’d like to work within, if possible. You’ll have an easier time getting a job in a law firm if you have experience interning in one. While an internship isn’t a requirement, it’s definitely helpful to get experience and certification, if you decide to go that route.
Administrative jobs will require you to be organized and work well with others. Sales and marketing positions will give you experience working with clients and interacting with customers. These are all important areas for human resources personnel to be experienced in.
Human resource organizations often hold meetings for their members. These are great sites for you to make useful connections that might help you learn about job openings. Connections can also help you get the job; if the hiring manager is choosing between two equally qualified candidates, they will probably go with the person they know. Networking will help you to stay informed on current trends or developments in the human resource field.
If you have taken classes that relate to human resources, make sure to highlight them on your resume.
Target the kinds of office environments that interest you. Do you want to work for a start-up? A hospital? Check the Careers section of the websites of companies within that field. Examine the job posting clearly; make sure it is a job for which you are qualified. Talk to colleagues that are currently working in a similar job. Ask them about the responsibilities and duties of the position to determine if you think you would excel in that capacity. Research any current news stories that involve the company. This will not only help you to know more about the organization, but it will help to prepare you for any possible job interviews. Look for any developments or expansions that have recently been in the news.
During the interview, make sure to emphasize your leadership experience, customer service skills, and any relevant employment or education.
