How to become A Human Resources Manager

Sir Richard Branson famously claimed that companies should “Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough, so they don’t have to. ” Human Resources (HR) Managers who realise that a company is only as good as its employers strive to enhance and maintain employee satisfaction.

• HR Manager
• Human Resources Supervisor
• Human Capital Manager
• Human Resources Officer
• Personnel Manager

What do Human Resources Managers do?

 A Human Resources Manager would typically need to:

• Lead and influence the administrative functions of the Human Resources (HR) department to attract, motivate and retain the most qualified talent
• Focus on employee-related services, regulatory compliance, and employee relations
• Coordinate and support the organisational recruitment, selection, and induction process; hire and interview staff, as required; onboard new hires
• Decide appropriate salary and remuneration; provide support for payroll requirements; maintain a pay and benefits program
• Assess, design, and implement employee induction and training methods; assist employees with professional development plans
• Monitor and develop HR strategies; enforce company policies and practices
• Support and manage the employee performance appraisal and review systems; oversee succession planning of staff
• Resolve employee issues and grievances
• Create efficient filing systems to record and access data

Human Resources Managers typically work in pleasant office settings. They may occasionally travel to conferences and seminars or recruit new employees. 

HR Managers generally work more than forty hours during a standard week. They remain on-call during an emergency or when making significant decisions regarding the employees.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. HR Managers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Human Resources Managers are generally employed by: 

• Companies & Enterprises
• Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
• The Manufacturing Industry
• The Government
• The Healthcare & Social Assistance Sector

Professional associations and organisations, such as the Society For Human Resources Management (SHRM), are crucial for Human Resources Managers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Acquiring and retaining talented workers from a tight labour market
• Managing deteriorating workplace relationships
• Maintaining empathy while retaining a logical perspective of employees’ concerns and grievances
• Inadequate resources dedicated to training and development programs

From an entry-level job as an HR assistant, you can move up the ranks as an HR administrator and HR advisor before becoming a Human Resources Manager. The whole process may take around seven years.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in human resources to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

Prospective Human Resources Managers may have a bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration. However, a master’s degree in human resources management may significantly increase your job opportunities.

Certification demonstrates a Human Resources Manager’s competence in a skill set,  typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination.

Gaining certification in HR management or business from a reputable organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement.

Employees with consistently high levels of performance and sufficient experience may be eligible for promotion to executive and directorial roles. Job titles in advanced positions include HR Business Partner, Head of HR, and HR Director. 

Human Resources Managers working in small companies may have to move to larger companies for better career progression opportunities.

Candidates with professional certification or a master’s degree in human resources management have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Human Resources Manager build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

The Origin

The 18th Century British Industrial Revolution saw the emergence of many large factories, all of which needed employees and workers. These labourers began putting in long hours and working for nearly sixteen hours a day. 

Employers soon realised that an increase in the happiness of the workers would lead to a rise in the productivity of the company and introduced worker satisfaction programs. Workplace conditions in factories also necessitated the establishment of safety measures and workers legal rights. 

The Title

In the 20th century, HR departments were known as personnel management departments and primarily dealt with legal compliance, employee-related issues, worker satisfaction programs, and compliance with legal safety measures for workers. Inspired by the United States Army after World War II, this department began implementing employee training programs. They took on the title ‘human resources’ in 1970.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Human Resources Managers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

A full-time Human Resources Manager, on the other hand, has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Inclusive corporate teams with diverse members deliver 80% better results than their peers.

HR Managers are emotionally intelligent human links between an organisation’s management and employees. They deftly steer the organisation on the twin courses of optimal profits and excellent employee satisfaction.

Even if it’s unproductive to keep an eye on every employee throughout the day, it’s integral for you to be aware of what they achieve to manage your team.