A company is only as good as its employees. As a human resources (HR) specialist, you're responsible for choosing and training employees.
On a day-to-day basis, human resources specialists serve as conduits between employees and management.
What is a Human Resources Specialist?
Human resources (HR) specialists are personnel professionals who've mastered the art of recruiting, training, and supporting employees.
Their work is varied and interesting, with plenty of opportunities to communicate with and advocate for employees in the workplace.
Education and Training for HR Specialists
A bachelor's degree is considered an entry-level requirement, but most employers prefer a master's degree as well.
While you can get a degree specifically in HR, some HR specialists have degrees in other fields, including business, communications, and more.
Most HR specialists complete an internship during their bachelor's program or immediately after graduation.
Some employers also prefer if HR specialists have other types of work experience, such as sales or management experience.
Important Soft Skills
HR specialists need strong listening and communications skills, which they use on a daily basis working with employees and management.
Good HR specialists are also strong problem solvers, able to come up with solutions to employee issues that will work for management.
You also want to be empathetic so you can understand and relate to employees who come to you with workplace issues.
HR specialists typically have strong motivational skills that they use to encourage enthusiasm among their company's employees.
Job Duties of an HR Specialist
Generally, an HR specialist is responsible for all things employment related; including hiring, benefits, compensation, and training.
HR specialists write job ads then recruit and interview prospective employees. They are also in charge of onboarding for new hires.
HR specialists also assist existing employees with payroll, vacation, benefits, and other workplace issues, including exit procedures.
Average Pay of a Human Resources Specialist
HR specialists earn an average salary of $73,080 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
HR specialists working for information technology companies tend to make the most, around $140,460 on average.
The District of Columbia, Washington, California, New Jersey, and New York are among the highest-paying states for HR specialists.
Major metropolitan areas, including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, also have higher pay averages.
Human Resources Specialist Job Outlook
The BLS projects that the employment of HR specialists will grow by 8% from 2021 to 2031.
Many HR specialists work for HR firms rather than individual companies. Smaller companies may outsource their HR work to these firms.
With 81,900 openings projected per year, there has never been a better time to start a career as an HR specialist.
How to Become a Human Resources Specialist: Step by Step
If you're passionate about employee support, read on to learn how to start a career as a human resources specialist.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree is considered entry-level education in the human resources field.
While most HR specialists get a bachelor's degree in human resources, others have degrees in communications, business, management, and more.
While pursuing your bachelor's degree, make sure you take courses in labor law, labor relations, and business communications.
Step 2: Intern in a Human Resources Department
Most human resources bachelor's programs include an internship as a component of your senior project.
If you've chosen another major or degree program, seeking out an internship in an HR department is a great way to get your feet wet.
While you're an intern, remember to ask lots of questions and network with the professionals you meet.
Step 3: Complete a Graduate Program
Many employers either require or prefer that their HR specialists have a master's degree or graduate certificate.
Human resource Graduate certificate programs can be completed in under a year and are typically more cost-effective than a master's degree program.
Many graduate certificate programs conclude with a certification exam so you can be a certified human resources specialist.
Once certified, you can include the abbreviation 'CHRS' after your name to designate your credential.
Step 4: Pursue Voluntary Certifications
Even if you don't complete a graduate program, you can still become a certified HR specialist.
In addition to this general certification, there are various specialist certifications that can expand your options as an HR specialist.
For example, if you want to specialize in recruiting, you might become a certified recruiter.
None of these certifications are necessarily required, but they enhance your professional profile and help you stand out.
Step 5: Continue with Professional Development
If you have certifications, it's important to keep them up to date by taking continuing education courses regularly.
Even without certifications, you want to make sure your knowledge of employment laws and regulations is up-to-date and accurate.
You also want to build your professional network. Successful HR careers depend on a strong network of HR professionals.
Taking courses to strengthen your weaker skills and knowledge areas will also help you succeed in your career as an HR specialist.
Learn About Becoming a Human Resources Specialist Today
Contact Best Accredited Colleges today if you're interested in becoming a human resources specialist.
