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career change - Human Resources
I haven't posted on this board before, but I wanted to see if anyone working in HR might have some advice for transitioning. I'm fairly new to the city I live in - I moved here last summer and I've been in a position in the hospitality industry since. Unfortunately, I haven't made a ton of contacts outside of work, making it difficult to get the word out about my search. I love what I do, but it's
just not feasible for the long-term (it's year-round, but only full-time
during the summer/fall and the hourly pay is terrible, with a sad, sad
raise not kicking in until May...not to mention no health benefits, paid
time off or retirement plan.) Most of my background consists of working for a large non-profit organization in a variety of positions (office manager/bookkeeper, fundraising/event planning manager.)
I've always been interested in learning more about HR and am considering a certificate program at my local state university - I really don't have the money to take on anything more in-depth. Areas that most interest me are payroll/benefits, organizational development & training, employee relations, and recruitment. I'd also be happy working for a smaller company in a generalist position. Of course, I have yet to find a position opening that doesn't require at least three years experience. I've spoken with some friends (out of my area) that are HR managers and they've said my experience has clearly given me the skills needed and that most places will train you on their specific systems...which is nice to hear, but doesn't help my resume stand out in a sea of experienced applicants.
Does anyone have advice on how to transition or on whether or not a certificate program would potentially be worth the time and money? Of course, the other benefit of this would be the networking opportunities - meeting other students, as well as having access to the professors that all seem to be actual HR professionals.
I appreciate any advice - thank you in advance!
Re: career change - Human Resources
I took a certificate program. While it was something extra on my resume, it would have been a million times more beneficial to wait until I was in an HR role and know what I was talking about/apply it to real situations. I kind of regret that I took it so early in my HR career.
I also have my PHR, and I recommend studying for and taking the test. It also looks good on your resume, however, I think you have to have 2-3 years of HR experience to take the test.
I "fell" into HR by first working at a temporary recruiting agency. It wasn't my favorite job by any means, but I was able to transition from there into a corporate recruiting role, and then evolve into a generalist position.
FET - transferred two embryos (boy and girl) - Nov 2014 - BFP!
Thank you so much for the response. I really appreciate your perspective.
After posting, I found an opening for a PT/Temp-Perm position with an HR recruiting firm, basically as an assistant to recruiters, helping to find potential candidates and taking care of the pre-employment process...sounds similar to the position you described starting in. They are only requiring an Associate's degree and some admin. experience. I'm sure the pay will be lower than I'm looking for, but it could be a great jumping off point and still leave me time for the certificate program down the line.