Questions to Ask About a Career in HR

Working in human resources gives you the opportunity to support employee growth and drive organizational success. Whether you’re a student seeking a professional career in HR or a professional looking to transition into a new field, it’s important that you have a good understanding of the pros and cons of working in human resources before you embark on this career path. In this article, we’ll discuss the important questions you need to explore when you’re considering whether working in HR is right for you, and how studying at ICT can prepare you to work in HR.

What Does an HR Professional Do?

Human resources professionals are tasked with handling everything to do with a company’s workforce.

They may play a role in recruiting new employees, and typically handle onboarding and orientation of new hires. They maintain employee records and administer payroll and benefits. When there are conflicts between employees or issues with employee conduct, it falls to HR to investigate and find a way to resolve the problem.

The HR department is also responsible for being familiar with applicable labor laws and making sure that the company stays in compliance with requirements on things like workplace safety and fair hiring practices.  

What are the Advantages of Human Resources Jobs?

There are many advantages that may suit your strengths as an individual and align with what you want to get out of your career. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to work in human resources. 

1. Contributing to organizational growth

If you value working on projects that directly impact your organization’s goals, an HR career can be fulfilling. 

2. Career stability

Most HR duties require interpersonal skills that can’t be replaced by evolving technology, offering career stability.

3. High salaries

HR requires specialized skills that attract competitive compensation in various industries.

4. Career advancement opportunities

If you begin an HR career in an entry-level position, your work experience and advanced credentials can help you qualify for promotions. 

What are the Disadvantages of Human Resources Jobs?

Every type of work has its own frustrations. Before pursuing a position in HR, you need to think about whether the highs are enough to get you through the lows. Some of the drawbacks of HR jobs to be aware of include:

1. Conflict resolution

As an HR professional, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll have to mediate disputes between employees. While achieving a resolution that satisfies everyone can be very rewarding, it also won’t be possible in every situation. If you are the type of person who gets very stressed-out by conflict, this may not be the role for you.  

2. Implementing changes

Working in HR, you might have to be the one to announce and coordinate adoption of new company policies. It can be frustrating to get your colleagues on board, especially if the policies are unpopular.

3. Keeping up with compliance

HR professionals need to stay on top of changes in federal, state, and local regulations that affect their workplace policies so that the company stays in compliance. This can be tedious and time-consuming.  

How Can I Get a Job in Human Resources?

If you think that HR is the right career field for you, ICT is here to help you get the job you want. The ICT human resources management program equips students with essential knowledge on business law and ethics, recruiting, employee selection, training and professional development, employee benefits, and payroll. Graduates will be prepared to enter the job market in the role of HR generalist, assistant recruiter, HR clerk, or human resources specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 79,000 new jobs are expected to be added each year in the HR industry. Let ICT train you to take advantage of these opportunities. Contact us today for more information.

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