Author : Michael J. Lane
There’s really no time in your life like it. You’ve completed your formal education or training program and you’re ready to go forth into the world and secure your first full-time permanent job. The difference is that this time, you’re not seeking summer, intern or co-op employment. You are looking to embark on a career. If you have your heart and sights set on a career in Human Resources (HR), there’s never been a more exciting time to “go for it.”
The changing role of HR
As a passionate and long-time practitioner in the field, I’ve seen HR go through many changes – one of the most positive of which is that the HR function is no longer perceived as an administrative, tactical and paper-pushing role. Today, the modern HR organization is significantly more strategic and involved than it was in days gone by. Collectively, within an organization, HR executives, directors and managers are now considered a “strategic partner” that helps drive and deliver on the overall goals of the company through talent management best-practices.
Yes, it is an exciting time to be in HR. And, if your passion has led you to pursue a career in HR, here are some tips you might find helpful in landing that first HR job.
1 . Be open to exploring different HR areas.
When starting your HR career, you might not know which HR area interests you the most or which area you have an aptitude for. So be open to opportunities. When exploring job postings, take some time to research the “competencies” associated with that HR area. The Internet provides a wealth of information on everything from HR lingo to HR competency models. Familiarizing yourself with industry – and job-specific language will help with resume preparation and the interview process.
It also (almost) goes without saying that if you do have industry experience (through volunteer work or internships for example) you include trigger or key words in your resume that will help get your resume noticed.
2. Join a human resources management association or society.
By doing so, you’ll become part of community of HR professionals. This will enable you to keep current with the latest industry trends, network with experienced HR professionals, pick up knowledge through special events and activities, and learn about potential opportunities.
Consider becoming a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) – the world’s largest association devoted to human resources management. If you intend to work in Canada, you can join the Human Resources Professionals Association.
There’s also The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK and the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI).
3. Make sure your job expectations are realistic.
It doesn’t matter how well you did at school or how impressive your references are, you have to be realistic about your prospects. With limited experience and skills (but limitless enthusiasm), you’re looking at an entry-level, foot-in-the-door job, not an executive-level position.
It’s great to set goals, just make sure they are practical. Your goal should be to gain the skills, knowledge and experience that will help prepare you for higher-level roles.
4. Seek out and participate in networking opportunities.
Career fairs and HR-related functions such as networking breakfasts, are ideal for making connections and building your professional network. And, I can’t stress this enough, be social.
Make your presence known on LinkedIn by joining relevant groups. Social networking gives you the power to reach a larger audience of people and to connect with people who share the same area of interest as you – whether it’s recruiting, compensation and benefits, organizational development or another function within HR.
Take advantage of social networking sites to share content (your profile), find answers, view jobs or make new business contacts.
5. Seek out volunteer opportunities, co-op placements or internships.
There are a number of ways for you to gain work experience before your first HR job. Research organizations you’re interested in and find out if they offer internships or unpaid work experience.
Not only does this give you valuable real-world HR experience, it also demonstrates to future employers that you are taking initiative with your career by seeking out career opportunities in a variety of ways. You may find that an internship turns into a full-time job down the road.
And even if it doesn’t, you’re building a career network and future employee references for yourself.
Preparing for your first HR job interview
When that all-important opportunity does come, there are some general guidelines for preparing for your interview that I’d like to leave with you:
- Do your homework. Research the company for which you’re interviewing. With the Internet and all it offers, there’s no excuse to go into an interview unprepared. If possible, use the connections you’ve made in your social networks to find out more about the company than what the Internet can tell you. The best part of doing your homework: turn it into some great, relevant questions to ask your interviewer.
- Be confident. (No matter how nervous you might be inside!) Interviewers look for people who are self-assured not self-conscious. It sounds silly and weird, but practice with your friends!
- Dress professionally. It’s always a good idea dress more professional than casual – you can’t go wrong with over dressing but you can with under dressing. Limit the use of aftershave, perfume or cologne.
- Smile. This tip doesn’t really require an explanation.
Now, go out and wow the world.
