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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Human Resources Specialists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Human Resources Specialists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 8%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Hire employees and process hiring-related paperwork.
Interpret and explain human resources policies, procedures, laws, standards, or regulations.
Maintain current knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action guidelines and laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If you're considering a career in human resources (HR), becoming an HR specialist can be a rewarding path. As an HR specialist, you'll be responsible for recruiting, screening, interviewing, and placing workers. You may also handle employee relations, payroll, benefits, and training. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your goal.
Before diving into the prerequisites of becoming an HR specialist, it's essential to have a clear understanding of what the role entails. HR specialists:
Most HR specialist positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Consider the following educational paths:
Bachelor's Degree: Pursue a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Coursework typically includes business, industrial relations, psychology, professional writing, human resource management, and employment law.
Certifications: While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications can boost your marketability. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers widely recognized certifications like SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Practical experience is crucial in the HR field. To gain experience:
Certain skills are vital for success as an HR specialist. Focus on developing:
Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry.
HR specialists must ensure their organization's compliance with laws and regulations.
Participate in continuing education courses related to employment law.
For those aiming for higher-level HR positions:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming an HR specialist. Remember that ongoing education and staying abreast of industry changes are part of the journey to success in this dynamic field.
To become a Human Resources Specialist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Some organizations may accept candidates with an associate's degree and relevant experience. However, higher-level positions often require a master's degree in human resources or labor relations.
Certifications can enhance your skills and credibility in the HR field. Popular certifications include:
You can obtain certifications from recognized bodies such as the HR Certification Institute or the Society for Human Resource Management.
As a Human Resources Specialist, you need a mix of soft and hard skills, including:
To advance your career, consider the following steps:
Human Resources Specialists can progress to higher roles such as:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to new companies forming and existing companies expanding their human resources departments.
Yes, joining professional associations can provide networking opportunities, resources, and professional development. Some prominent associations include:
Membership in these associations can offer significant benefits for career growth and staying current with HR best practices.