Getting Your First Job in HR

• If unsure, fully research and find out what a career in Human Resources really involves.
• Find out the type of positions that are available, qualifications / experience required and also speak to people who work within the Human Resources field for advice and guidance.
• Human Resources can be a very competitive job market as it offers a wide range of rewarding career options, so be patient when looking for your first role as this can take time.
• Typical characteristics required for positions in Human Resources include: patience, tact, diplomacy, approachability, excellent communication skills and confidentiality.
• Employers will usually look upon membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development or willingness to study towards this as an asset and salary may be elevated for those who achieve this.
• A Human Resources professional may cover a number of or may specialise in one of the following areas: Recruitment and Selection, Employee Development, Employee Relations, Compensation and Benefits, Employment Law, Health and Safety, Training, Management Development, Human Resource Planning and Organisational Development.