Human Resources/HR
A career in HR (Human Resources) offers great potential for career development and the opportunity to work in a huge variety of environments as almost every organisation will need an HR professional. Job titles within HR can include junior roles such as HR Assistant, HR Coordinator and HR Administrator through mid-level roles including HR Executive, HR Associate and HR Business to the senior positions of HR Advisor, HR Manager, and HR Director.
Essentially HR is about making sure that the right people are in the right jobs to ensure that both employees and the company thrive. The day to day responsibilities of an HR professional will vary depending on the size of the company and the seniority of the HR person. A key function for the HR team will usually be the recruitment of new staff for the company which will involve HR staff officers liaising with the relevant hiring manager to ensure that the HR team has a clear understanding of the role that is being recruiting for and the key skills and experience that any potential candidates should have.
HR professionals will also frequently be involved with the training and personal development of current employees in addition to drafting and negotiating policies for a wide range of matters such as staff pay and benefits, performance reviews, health & safety, disciplinary procedures and relevant legal issues.
HR roles are varied, interesting and challenging and within larger organisations there are frequently opportunities to progress to each next phase of your HR career, specialising in specific HR areas.
Skills and Experience required to become an HR Professional
The skills and experience required for a career in HR will vary depending upon the company and the level of the HR role.
- CIPD qualification (or willingness to study for this) for more senior roles
- Degree level education (for senior roles)
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Good organisation skills and an eye for detail
- Ability to multi-task
- Team player and ability to communicate effectively with people from all backgrounds
Salary Levels
Salary levels in HR will vary depending upon the size and location of the company and the level of the HR role. Starting salaries as an HR Assistant will be in the region of £15,000–£18,000 a year which could increase to £40,000 for a qualified and experienced HR Manager and up to £80,000 for an HR director. Some experienced HR professionals also set up their own business to provide independent HR advice and guidance to organisations, which can be very profitable indeed.