Job Gear – Equiptment for work

How can I get an entry-level job in human resources?

Hi there – I was in the HR field for 15 years and remember asking myself the same question when I wanted to get started! As a Career Coach, I often help folks with their strategy for getting into their desired field of work.

Without knowing more about your background or education, here are a few pointers:
* If you are still pursuing a college degree, pursue relevant degrees. Some schools even offer Bachelor’s degrees in HR, human services, etc. If you want to pursue a Master’s degree, you can specialize in something like Organizational Development, get an HR MBA, or go with a broader HR Master’s degree.
* If you have already received a degree then it’s time to look into how you can break into the field. One of my biggest suggestions is to start networking. Ask other HR professionals for an informational interview. Let them know you would like to take them to coffee or talk on the phone for 20 – 30 minutes to find out more about them and the HR field. You’ll learn a lot but, more importantly, they’ll get to know you too and you’ll have contacts in the field. Even if that person doesn’t have a job for you right then, they will remember you if something opens up in 6 – 9 month.
* Contact temp and contracting agencies. Some even specialize in HR temps. This will give you experience for your resume and to talk about in interviews for future regular, full-time roles.
* Consider starting as an HR Assistant, Recruiting Assistant, or Executive Assistant to an HR Executive. You won’t need a lot of HR experience (if any) for these roles but be prepared to answer the question about why you want to go into HR. If you are smart and resourceful, they will see that and will want to develop you and give you more to do.

When I was looking for my break into HR, it was during a down economy and jobs were scarce. I just kept asking for informational interviews and eventually it landed me a great job.

I hope this is helpful! If I can help you in any other way, please contact me!
-Kelly Harrington
Career Coach

http://kellyharrington.com/