Most people would agree that one of the most valuable assets in any business or organization are the people who work there. That makes the person or people who manage employee related matters an equally important asset. Employee relations, benefits administration, payroll, recruiting, hiring, and training employees are all business activities typically handled by human resources (HR). And with so many important business functions falling to HR, it’s easy to see why many businesses have entire departments dedicated to managing them. This could lead to why HR careers are on the rise and predicted to continue rising, adding 674,800 new jobs by 2030*. If empowering people to drive business success sounds like a great way to earn a living, the Human Resource Management Program at ICT can help you get started. Check out our recommendations for how to begin your career in human resources management.
Do your research
What this really means, is narrow down your career options. While some jobs involve a wide range of HR duties, there are a lot of different niches within the industry to explore. Are you passionate about helping people learn new skills that propel their careers forward? If so, you may want to focus your future on employee training and development. Number cruncher by nature? Payroll and benefits administration is another niche within HR that could be a good fit. The point is to figure out what the right fit is for you.
Identify the niche you are passionate about. You can find a role within HR that interests you. During a human resource management program, you will get plenty of experience in different aspects of human resources. From recruiting, hiring, training, employee development, payroll, and benefits administration, you will learn the different aspects of human resources and have an easier time choosing your niche. You will also enjoy 135 hours of real-world experience during your externship at the Interactive College of Technology. This is an opportunity to identify the right role and network with like-minded professionals.
Join relevant HR organizations
Professional organizations allow you to network with your peers and often offer continuing education and industry recognized certifications. In the HR world, organizations such as The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can help you stay up to date on the latest industry happenings and offer a wealth of industry resources and education.
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) – this certification offers HR professionals the credentials to promote their contribution to human resources in the workplace, the acceleration of their career, and development of strategic perspectives. Our Human Resources Management program prepares you to take the SHRM certified professional certification exam and show your proficiency in operational duties including implementing HR policies, supporting day-to-day HR functions, and serving as an HR point of contact at your organization.
Get industry experience
This one might seem difficult if you aren’t already working in the HR industry. But seeking out an internship that gives you practical experience is a great way to gain industry knowledge and gets your foot in the door. You can also seek out volunteer opportunities with HR service providers versus ordinary businesses. HR service providers are more likely to have expertise across the HR spectrum.
Further, the human resources management program at ICT allows you to enjoy 135 hours of real-world experience during an externship at an organization in the local community. You will get to shadow human resources staff and perform HR duties under strict supervision. This is a great experience to include on your resume, solving the problem of getting experience before you graduate from the human resources management program.
Pursue a degree in HR
Reach out to schools offering HR programs and training. Talk to program advisors about your goals and choose a school that fits your individual needs as far as program length, budget, location etc.
If you are located near an ICT campus in Georgia, Kentucky or Texas, we have created an HR degree program with you in mind. Our program is designed to deliver a broad understanding of business and organizational needs with courses that cover employee recruitment, payroll administration and benefits administration to name a few. Whether you want to become an HR assistant, compliance specialist, HR clerk or human resources specialist, ICT offers a degree program that will prepare you for your first day in human resources and build a career you are passionate about.
Enjoy Career Services
At the Interactive College of Technology, we follow you throughout your career to fill in any employment gaps you may come across during your career journey. We help you find jobs in human resources that you are passionate about, sometimes even before the general public is aware of the opening. Enjoy career services to find a job with resume building and mock interviews. And when you need a helping hand to climb the next rung in the employment ladder, ICT is here to help.
Are you ready to start your career in human resources? Want to learn more about the Interactive College of Technology? With so many new HR jobs expected by 2030, it’s safe to say there will be plenty of opportunities in human resources to choose from. If you’re ready to take the next step, a great place to start is by checking out the Human Resource Management Program at ICT. With lifetime career placement support, and a hands-on externship that provides real-world experience before you graduate, ICT is helping students just like you launch fulfilling careers in the world of HR. Contact us today to learn more.
*https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/human-resources-specialists.htm
