How to start a career in Human Resources

Are you keen to make a real difference in people's working lives? Maybe you're looking for a career that's both challenging and rewarding. If so, a human resources (HR) career might be the perfect fit. HR is more than just paperwork. It's about connecting with people, helping teams grow, and shaping organisational culture. The need for skilled HR professionals is growing in today's dynamic work environment, making it an excellent time to explore this field.

Our blog will guide you through everything you need to know about how to get into human resources jobs, from understanding how to get jobs in HR with no experience to exploring the human resource management job scope. We'll also look at the human resources career path and how you can progress within this field.

What does a career in HR look like?

The HR department often serves as the backbone of an organisation. Whether it’s hiring top talent, resolving workplace conflicts, or shaping company policies, HR professionals keep organisations thriving.

A career in human resources can be incredibly rewarding, offering diverse opportunities in recruitment, employee relations, and strategic workforce planning. This path might be perfect if you enjoy working with people, problem-solving, and making a real impact in a company.

Core HR responsibilities and specialisations

At its heart, HR involves managing the employee lifecycle. This includes recruitment, onboarding, training and development, performance management, and even handling disciplinary procedures. You'll also process payroll and ensure compliance with employment law.

But HR isn't a one-size-fits-all field. There are various specialisations you can pursue. For example, if you're passionate about learning, you might focus on learning and development. Diversity and inclusion could be your calling if you're keen on creating inclusive workplaces. And with the rise of technology, HR tech is becoming increasingly important.

Skills and qualifications needed to succeed in HR

While getting into human resources without formal education is possible, having the right HR qualifications can significantly boost your employability. Some common routes include:

• Degrees for HR: A degree in HR management, business management, psychology, or a related field is highly beneficial.
• CIPD Qualifications: The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) offers industry-recognised certifications, from the Foundation Certificate to the Associate Diploma, which can boost your credibility
• Postgraduate Qualification: A master's in HR management can help experienced HR professionals progress to senior roles.

Essential HR Skills

Beyond human resources qualifications, you also need a mix of technical and soft skills:

• Communication skills: Essential for conflict resolution, employee engagement, and recruitment.
• Organisational development: Managing HR policies and workforce planning.
• Employment law knowledge: Ensuring compliance with labour laws and regulations.
• Negotiating skills: Handling salaries, benefits, and dispute resolutions.
• HR technology: Familiarity with HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems) and applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Starting your HR career without experience

You may wonder, "But how do I get into human resources without experience?" Don't worry—it's entirely possible. Many people successfully transition into HR from other fields. If you're switching from an admin, marketing, or sales role, you'll likely have transferable skills that are valuable in HR.

Entry-level HR jobs to consider

If you're looking to get into the field, start with these entry-level human resource positions:

• HR Assistant: Supports HR teams with admin tasks like processing payroll and onboarding.
• HR Coordinator: Assists in recruitment, employee relations, and training initiatives.
• HR Administrator: Manages HR data, contracts, and personnel records.
• Recruitment Coordinator: Specialises in hiring processes and candidate experience.
• HR Officer: Handles generalist HR job responsibilities, including compliance and policy enforcement.

These roles provide a great opportunity to learn the ropes and gain hr experience. You'll be involved in various human resources job tasks, such as scheduling interviews, maintaining employee records, and assisting with onboarding.

Gaining experience outside traditional HR roles

Even if you don't have HR experience, relevant skills from other jobs can help you transition. Consider:

• Customer service roles: Develop communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Admin or office management: Build organisational and people management experience.
• Sales or marketing: Learn negotiation and talent attraction strategies.
• Retail or hospitality: Gain experience in performance management and team leadership.

Additionally, internships, volunteering, or temp jobs in HR can help you gain practical skills and make valuable industry connections.

Your career path in HR: From Assistant to Director

Career progression in human resources can be rapid if you're proactive. You might start as an HR assistant, but with time, you could lead major initiatives as an HR Director or even a Vice President of HR in large organisations. Here's a quick look:

• HR Assistant or Coordinator

  This is where you'd learn HR job responsibilities such as drafting reports, handling benefits queries, and managing HR systems.

• HR Officer

  HR Officer job description typically involves overseeing more complex HR responsibilities, such as creating training programmes and coordinating talent management strategies.

• HR Manager

  At this stage, you set departmental goals, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with employment law. HR managers often focus on organisational development, advanced performance management, and developing company-wide learning and development plans.

• HR Director or VP of HR

  By now, you're not just guiding the HR department—you're partnering with senior leaders to shape the overall human resources career path across the organisation. You'll steer large-scale initiatives affecting company culture, benefits, and employee relations.

Each level brings challenges and more influence, especially when you combine your experience with professional qualification routes like CIPD.

How much do HR professionals earn?

Let's talk money. How much does an HR Manager earn? Human resource management salary can vary significantly depending on your experience, location, and industry.

Entry-level salaries might be modest, but your earning potential increases as you gain experience and move up the ladder. The human resources average salary in the UK is competitive, and HR Managers tend to earn a good wage. Of course, their salary depends on various factors, including the size of the company and the complexity of their responsibilities.

Salaries also differ across sectors. Government jobs in human resource management might offer stability and good benefits, while private sector roles often provide higher pay and bonuses. Non-profit organisations may offer lower salaries but often provide a greater sense of purpose. Always check the human resource pay rate for specific roles and locations to get an accurate picture.

Check out our CIPD Levels and Human Resources Salary (UK) Guide for more outlook.

Trends shaping the future of HR careers

The world of work is constantly evolving, and HR is at the forefront of these changes. Some key trends include:

1. Integration of AI and automation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become integral to HR operations. 81% of HR Managers have already looked into AI solutions to improve organisational processes and employee experiences, achieving remarkable results. AI-driven tools are now commonly used for tasks such as:​

• Recruitment: Automated systems streamline candidate sourcing and initial screenings, reducing time-to-hire.​
• Engagement: AI-powered platforms analyse employee feedback to identify areas for improvement.​

2. Embracing hybrid and remote work models

The shift towards hybrid and remote work arrangements has solidified. Notably:

• Employee Preferences: The majority of employees are reluctant to return to full-time office settings, and a considerable percentage favour some remote work.
• Employer Adaptations: Organisations are developing policies to support flexible work environments, balancing productivity with employee well-being.

3. Focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I)

DE&I initiatives have become central to organisational strategies:

• Comprehensive Programs: Companies are implementing advanced DE&I strategies to foster inclusive cultures.
• Employee Expectations: A diverse and inclusive workplace is now critical for job seekers when evaluating potential employers.

4. Data-driven decision making

HR departments are increasingly leveraging data analytics:​

• Performance Metrics: Data analysis informs strategies to enhance employee productivity and satisfaction.
• Predictive Analytics: Organisations use data to anticipate workforce trends and address potential challenges proactively.

Expert tips to land your first HR role

You've done your homework and decided you want to work in this people-centric world. So, how do I get into human resources, especially if I lack direct experience?

• Tailored CV: Highlight transferable skills like communication and problem-solving. Human resource management work experience also stands out on a CV, whether gained through an apprenticeship, internship, or volunteer role.
• Build your LinkedIn profile: Showcase HR-related experience and connect with HR professionals.
• Network: Join professional bodies like CIPD and attend HR events.
• Gain practical experience: Volunteer, intern, or take on HR-related tasks in your current role.
• Prepare for HR interviews: Expect questions on employment law, conflict resolution, and company culture.

Staying informed about industry trends and continuously developing relevant skills are essential for a successful HR career. Aim to blend formal qualifications, like enrolling in our CIPD course with work experience options.

Challenges and misconceptions in HR careers

HR is often misunderstood. Many people have preconceived notions about what HR professionals do, but the reality is far more complex. Here are some common myths and the truth behind them:

• HR is just hiring and firing: Many assume that HR is solely responsible for recruitment and dismissals. However, HR involves strategic workforce planning, employee engagement, training and development, and ensuring compliance with employment law. For example, HR professionals implement talent management strategies to retain top employees and reduce turnover.
• HR professionals must be extroverts: While people skills are crucial in HR, being extroverted is not a requirement. HR professionals need strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational abilities. Many introverted individuals excel in HR by leveraging their ability to assess workplace data, manage employee benefits, and create effective HR policies behind the scenes.
• HR doesn't require technical skills: Modern HR professionals rely heavily on technology. HR Information Systems (HRIS) help manage employee records, and data analytics tools support workforce planning and performance management. For instance, AI-driven HR software can track employee satisfaction, identify turnover trends, and predict future hiring needs.

Resources to support your HR journey

Continuous learning is key to succeeding in HR. Consider these resources to enhance your career:

• Professional bodies: Joining organisations like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) provides networking opportunities, access to industry reports, and professional development resources.
• Online courses: e-Careers offers HR online courses, including CIPD qualifications, employment law training, and HR analytics courses.
• Books & blogs: Reading industry reports, HR thought leadership blogs, and books can provide valuable insights. Our HR courses include access to the Kogan Page library, which has over 90 professional HR and L&D eBooks.
• Podcasts & forums: Engage with HR professionals through podcasts like HR Happy Hour and forums like the CIPD community to stay updated on trends, best practices, and industry news.

By leveraging these resources, aspiring HR professionals can stay informed, develop new skills, and advance their careers in this dynamic field.

Ready to start your HR career?

A career in human resources offers great job security, career progression, and the chance to make a real difference in an organisation. If you're ready to take the next step, explore professional qualifications and online HR courses to build your skills.

Our CIPD Career Academy provides a globally recognised CIPD qualification and guaranteed remote work experience, where 1 in 4 learners secure a job with their work experience company. This makes it an excellent way to kickstart your HR career. Whether starting from scratch or transitioning from another field, there are plenty of opportunities to grow in HR!

Ready to discuss your next career move? Call +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 or email ask@e-careers.com