Tips for breaking into the HR field

[nanoreefer22]

Hey All,

I'm making an honest effort to get myself into an entry level Human Resources position. I have no experience in the field and I feel like I'm slowly losing the battle to get myself into one of those few entry-level positions.

If you have any tips, good reading, links, really if you have anything helpful I ask that you please share.

Thanks,
Kris

 

[DrGonzo]

My sister recently got her masters in HR. She's also finding it hard to find work right now because the HR sector was hit particularly hard during the recession. You might want to look into non-profits. They often are in need of HR help. While the pay may not be all that great, at least you can get some experience. Good luck.

 

[fritz]

Good advice. I know a lot of unemployed HR people.

 

[NYreefNoob]

most HR positions require a degree also kris

 

[aznt1217]

Read the Vault Career Guides. Look for the Human Resources one to get a quick overview. Start internships rather than looking for full time at this point.

 

[DrGonzo]

most HR positions require a degree also kris

This is true particularly in this job market, however during normal economic times, generalists or entry-level HR positions often do not require degrees. A lot of HR duties have recently been subject to outsourcing. Boeing, for instance, has outsourced much it's HR needs to India.

 

[nanoreefer22]

Thanks for the tips guys

What kind of degree are you referring to Rick??

 

[E.intheC]

Hey Kris- I've been in the h.r. field for about 3 years, mostly in recruiting. I have a bachelors in human resources. Send me a pm and we can talk about specific tips, including helping out with your resume. A degree is helpful, but generally not required in most places. Relatable work experience is more important in most circumstances. Other than that; I'd say- keep focused, deliberate, and positive. Those 3 things are very important.

 

[E.intheC]

silly blackberry double post..

 

[Josh]

Most HR people I know have an MA degree in it. It is hard to be high level in HR without the degree, it isn't something you can afford to make a lot of mistakes in.

Kris, I suggest you work towards finding a job with a nice company that will help out with tuition reimbursement and then go back for the degree. You have plenty of time to get into it, it will probably be easier if you get them to pay for it too.

 

[nanoreefer22]

I do plan on going back to school next August to get my masters, hopefully.

I have a BBA, but its in Small Business Management. I've broadened my search a bit in the hopes of finding something stable for the time being. I want to stay at my next place of employment for at least a few years, so I'm kind of waiting for something good to come along.

E.intheC,

I'll shoot you a PM