How do I get Started in an HR Career?

Once you've decided on a human resources (HR) career, you should get as much education and work experience in the field as possible. An HR career can be built in one or more different areas of human resources. HR jobs can be competitive and although bachelor's degrees are preferred for entry-level positions, the most important thing is to show how your completed courses in human resources and your work experience in the field make you the ideal choice for each job.

For instance, some HR jobs deal only with internal employees, while others recruit external staff. A human resources job may involve one specific topic such as safety and an HR safety specialist often works in large corporations with warehouse operations. He or she develops workplace programs and policies that meet government regulations to ensure compliance with safety requirements. HR safety specialists also work closely with risk management and legal claims departments. If you aspire to be involved in this type of HR career, you should not only take classes in workplace safety, but volunteer at safety workshops.

Starting a career in human resources may require some volunteering at first, especially if you don't have a degree in HR, business or social sciences. Network with HR people as much as possible — you could attend community business functions and hand out your business card. You could have a mini resume included on the back of the card that mentions your HR career qualifications and interests. Let everyone know you're looking for a career in human resources and apply to companies before they advertise.

When applying for beginning human resources jobs, make sure your cover letter helps you stand out above competitors. Communication skills are extremely important in any HR career, so make sure your spelling and grammar are impeccable, but more than that, communicate exactly what you've accomplished to set you apart from other applicants. This could be a degree in human resources, plus specific HR volunteer experience. Even having an article you wrote on a human resources topic published in a business magazine can help show future employers that you're well suited for an HR career.

If you're in college, many HR organizations routinely hold recruitment fairs on campuses. You could find out the details ahead of time and perhaps volunteer in recruitments at your college. Some companies also offer internships through certain schools and this can be a good HR career start for students.