Careers in Human Resource Management

There are many different types of jobs in the HRM profession. Some positions involve work in specialized areas of HRM such as recruiting, compensation, or employee benefits. Generalists usually perform the full range of HRM activities, including recruiting, training, compensation, and employee relations.

The vast majority of HRM professionals have a college degree, and many also have completed postgraduate work. The typical field of study is business, but some HRM professionals have degrees in the social sciences or law programs. Those who have completed graduate work have master’s degrees in HR management, business management, or a similar field. To be successful in HR, you need to speak the same language as people in the other business functions.

HR professionals can increase their career opportunities by taking advantage of training and development programs. These may include passing an exam for a professional certification or learning more about the business. Some HRM professionals have a professional certification in HRM, but many more are members of professional associations. The primary professional organization for HRM is the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

SHRM, the world’s largest human resource management association, provides education and information services, conferences and seminars, government and media representation, and online services and publications. Other organizations also support professional development in particular areas of human resource management.