Careers in Human Resources

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT, also known as HRM or simply HR, is the process of hiring and developing employees so that they become valuable members of the employer's organization. Any company, large or small, depends upon its employees for success. Human resources managers are the people in charge of ensuring that the right employees are recruited, hired, and trained. HR managers also serve as a vital link between an organization's management and its employees, often consulting with top executives on strategic planning. The responsibilities of human resources managers fall into three major areas: staffing, employee compensation and benefits, and defining work. Their main job is to coordinate an organization's workforce, from planning personnel needs to hiring and firing. Depending on the size of the organization, they may also establish workplace policies, serve as the go-to person for questions about benefits, settle disputes among staff, evaluate worker performance, negotiate contracts, handle employee relations, develop training programs, and oversee other human resources staff. In essence, the purpose of all of these tasks is the same: to maximize the success of an organization by optimizing the effectiveness of its employees. Many human resources positions require at least a bachelor's degree. A master's degree may be needed to secure a position as a specialist or to advance to a higher-level management position. It is also possible to get started with no college at all. Some entry-level jobs require only a high school diploma and a willingness to take on administrative duties as an assistant. There is no single pathway to a career in human resources. Indeed, HR professionals come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have worked their way up the corporate ladder from clerical positions into management. Others set out to become HR managers and launch their careers directly from college. Some have transitioned into HR from other fields, such as finance, law, or technology. One of the best aspects of this career is the wide variety of work settings. Wherever there are employees, there are HR professionals. That includes every industry, plus government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Wherever you choose to work, you can be sure that human resources management is a highly valued position. Business leaders understand that there is a higher risk of failure without a good HR manager to help attract and retain the best employees possible. In fact, HR managers are usually considered at the same level as executive officers, and are often included in major corporate decisions. HR professionals agree that this is very satisfying work. The pay is good, but that is just the beginning. The job market is growing, working conditions are excellent, and layoffs are nearly unheard of. Best of all, there is no stress. The work is interesting, challenging, and rewarding. Human resources is a good choice for a person who wants to help people be more productive and fulfilled during their time spent in the workplace. If you want the chance to lead and, are eager to take on management responsibilities, take a closer look at this career.