¶ … Career in Human Resources
Over the last several years, the economy has been going through a number of challenges. This is because globalization and the stagnant recovery have changed the way firms are working with employees. At the heart of these transformations, is focusing on addressing the needs of talented employees and reducing costs. Those individuals, who are able to help the firm achieve these objectives, will receive better forms of compensation. As they are assisting corporations in: being able to remain competitive and are addressing the most critical needs of customers. This allows them to aggressively compete against a number of firms in the marketplace. ("Impact of Globalization on Business," 2006)
To help businesses adjust with these challenges, there has been a focus on having the human resources department (HR) playing a critical role in the process. This is because; these kinds of managers can be able to form a bond with employees (which will help them to understand what they need). Moreover, HR is assisting executives along with the board of directors in understanding a host of issues that could impact the company including: performance reviews, executive compensation, talent management, succession planning and they are helpful in integrating two different operating environments together after a merger / acquisition. The combination of these factors is important, in allowing an organization to effectively adapt with a host of challenges they will face consistently. (Harris, 2010)
As a result, the demand for HR personal is increasing by an average of 33% yearly. This is causing more college graduates and professionals to consider entering this career field. To fully understand how to become an HR professional requires look at: the different steps that must be followed and what strategies must be utilized. Together, these elements will highlight how someone can begin working in this area.
The Strategies and Steps for having a Career in HR
Step 1: Personal Characteristics
Prior to beginning any kind of career in human resource management, there are a number of different attributes that must be taken into consideration to include: the ability to work well with others, patience, flexibility, good judgment / listening skills and charisma. These areas will help an individual to have the basic tools to use in reaching out to different stakeholders. Once this takes place, is when HR personnel will serve as a liaison between employees and management. This is the point that they can be able to address critical issues impacting the firm when they are small. Over the course of time, this will reduce any kind of potential conflicts (leading to an increase in productivity). ("Choose a Career," 2008) (Connelly, 2000, pp. 48 -- 75) (McKenzie, 2001, pp. 91 -- 111)
Step 2: Educational Requirements
Due to the specialized personal skills that are required of all HR personnel, there are some formal education requirements. This is because specific tools and tactics must be utilized that will help the individual to address a host of issues inside the workplace. At the same time, globalization is pushing many individuals to have more specialized skills. The combination of these factors means, that all candidates must have a minimum of an Associate degree in Human Resource Management. ("Choose a Career," 2008) (Connelly, 2000, pp. 48 -- 75) (McKenzie, 2001, pp. 91 -- 111)
However, in order to be able to have the most specialized knowledge possible, higher degree programs are necessary. This is causing most candidates to seek out: a Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral degrees in these areas. During this process, there is focus on issues such as: industrial relations and organizational behavior / development. Once an individual has completed studying in these different areas is when they will have a basic background for working in the field. ("Choose a Career," 2008) (Connelly, 2000, pp. 48 -- 75) (McKenzie, 2001, pp. 91 -- 111)
Step 2: Internships
Another major requirement for being employed inside any kind of HR environment is the necessary experience. For most people, this is challenging as they have only experiences related to a classroom environment and not real world situations. In many cases, employers want someone who: has at least two to three years of experience. This is because they have the ability to work well with others and address a host of challenges. The problem is obtaining the necessary experience. ("Choose a Career," 2008) (Connelly, 2000, pp. 48 -- 75) (McKenzie, 2001, pp. 91 -- 111)
One possible strategy that can be utilized is to go through an internship for at least one year. This can take place, when the individual is still going...
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