Human Resources
Human resources (HR) is at the heart of business, and organisations have begun to appreciate the benefits of having a strong HR division in recent years. HR has moved beyond line management support and now aims to improve business capability and performance by selecting the right employees, motivating the workforce and developing new business strategies.
As a result, careers in this sector can be very varied and challenging, encompassing everything from running employee focus groups, to coaching team leaders and helping formulate new business strategies. Employers are increasingly looking for graduate-calibre candidates with key skills to fill core HR roles within the business and most big organisations offer graduate recruitment schemes.
The economic downturn has created an added challenge for HR departments to manage people effectively, retain talent during a recruitment freeze and in some cases make difficult decisions on issues such as pay, benefits and redundancy.
The professional body for the HR sector ? the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) ? has 135,000 members and is a good source of information for graduates interested in a career in HR.
HR professionals are typically employed to work a 35-37.5 hour week, but longer hours are common, with the CIPD reporting that 73% worked a 40-hour week or more. If you thrive on responsibility and enjoy variety in your work, then a career in HR could suit you.
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The average salary for a graduate entry-level role is £24,000 rising to £30,720 with experience. HR directors earn around £70,000 per year.
A good degree in any discipline is required for graduate recruitment schemes and more senior roles. HR or business-related degrees may be preferred by some employers and work experience in the sector is highly valued.
To be a successful HR professional you need to be a ?people person? who is able to communicate effectively with people at all levels at the business. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are a prerequisite and good organisation, administration and IT skills are also a must. Having commercial awareness and a good understanding of various business functions will also benefit you when entering the profession and help you secure a job.
