Most HR management professionals have bachelor's degrees.
Depending on the company, human resources (HR) management is responsible for the recruiting, interviewing, hiring and training of new employees within an organization. These professionals focus on employee relations and ensure that conflicts and problems are kept to a minimum. HR managers implement new regulations and policies to help employee morale and improve the efficiency and effectiveness in departments. Individuals in this position may oversee compensation and benefits for employees. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2008, the median salary for a human resources manager is $86,500.
Education
Those working in HR management must graduate with at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources. While opportunities are available at the master’s degree level, a bachelor’s degree is normally the minimum level of education necessary for a career in this field. Bachelor’s degree programs focus the foundational aspects of human resources, such as business administration, communications and organizational development. A master’s degree places an emphasis on specific human resource management duties, including compensation, employee benefits, recruitment and performance reviews.
Experience
Before earning a promotion into management, HR professionals work as assistants within a department. This position focuses on the day-to-day operations in an organization and gives the employee valuable experience needed for the management position. Assistant human resource personnel are responsible for much of the paperwork and record keeping involved in hiring employees, compensation, tracking performance, employee safety and health reporting.
Certification
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers certification opportunities for HR management professionals. The Professional in Human Resources certification shows that the individual has the theoretical and practical knowledge to work at a high level in this profession. Applicants must pass an examination that covers strategic management, workforce planning, human resource development, total rewards, employee relations and risk management, as listed on the SHRM website. While not required by companies, becoming certified offers prospective and current human resources managers additional training in the field and proves to potential employers that they are current on the latest developments and advancements in the field.
Tags: human resources, management professionals, bachelor’s degree, employee relations, human resource