Human resources careers are incredibly diverse. They range from specific areas of responsibilities to broad ones. Human resources covers everything from union labor relations to executive coaching. Employment prospects for people with training and skills in this field are excellent, as every company with employees needs qualified professionals to handle the human resources function.
Human resources professionals perform functions related to compensation, staffing and training employees for their companies. The staffing function of human resources involves recruiting, interviewing and selecting new employees, as well as handling promotions and succession planning. Duties related to this function often include conducting background checks and making job offers. The compensation function involves benefits administration and payroll. The training function of human resources involves employee orientation and ongoing skill training.
People in human resources usually work as generalists or specialists. Generalists are responsible for all aspects of human resources for their organizations. Usually, generalists are employees as directors or managers for companies. Big companies often have a group of specialists who report to a director or manager. Rather than being involved in multiple areas of human resources, every specialist concentrates on a certain function.
Training for a human resources career usually requires four years of post-secondary study, leading to a bachelors degree. Higher level positions often require graduate degrees, which can take two or more years of full time study after graduating college. While not every human resources position requires a degree, it is difficult to get into this field without one.
People who seek to be recognized as certified professionals in the field can choose to obtain one of the certifications offered by the Human Resources Certification Institute. The first certification level is the PHR designation, which stands for Professional in Human Resources. The Senior Professional in Human Resources certification is the next step up the ladder. Advanced certifications are available for individuals who wish to seek global certification.
Generally, large companies hire one human resources professional for every 100 employees staffed. Large organizations outsource many administrative functions, and can have a hiring policy of one human resources person for every 300 workers. In small companies, those who handle human resources also often handle many other responsibilities.
Modern analysis emphasizes that human beings are not resources, but are creative beings in a productive enterprise. Strong social consensus on political economy and a good welfare system increases labor mobility and tends to make the entire economy more productive. The goal of the human resources department is to recognize the talents of each employee and help them grow in skill and experience in order to benefit their organization and the economy as a whole.
