Map Contact Us
Career Tracker
Pursuing a Career in Human Resources?
Columbia has many opportunities for those pursuing careers in Human Resources. HR has evolved from the behind-the-scenes administrative role of the 20th century to active involvement in shaping corporate policy. Whether transitioning into the HR field or looking for a new position, your search will take skill and knowledge.It is known that 60%-70% of all jobs are found through personal contacts or networking. Developing a network of HR contacts can be critical in landing that new position.
We have that resource right here in Columbia. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management. Columbia has a local chapter which is a great way to network. Many student members have obtained entry-level jobs and internships, never advertised to the public, through the connections they made as active members of SHRM chapters.
Consider building your credentials by taking the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certification offered through the Columbia SHRM Chapter. An intensive study course will not only prepare you for the exam but also help you to build a network of other HR professionals.
Research the types of HR positions you may be interested in pursuing such as Generalist, Compensation, Benefits or Placement positions. Larger companies allow candidates to be more specialized while smaller companies are seeking more of a generalist type of employee; one to wear many hats.
In a small organization, a human resources generalist may handle all aspects of human resources work, requiring a broad range of knowledge. The responsibilities of human resources generalists can vary widely, depending on their employer's needs. In a large corporation, the top human resources executive usually develops and coordinates personnel programs and policies.
Other emerging specialists include international human resources managers, who handle human resources issues related to a company's foreign operations, and human resources information system specialists, who develop and apply computer programs to process personnel information, and match job seekers with openings.
The career outlook for human resources specialists is quite positive. New positions will be created throughout the industry as companies strive to retain quality employees. Employers are expected to allocate greater resources to training programs in response to increasing complexity of many positions, the aging of the work force, and the constantly advancing technological advances that leave many employees adrift with outdated skills.
Site maintenance by Right Click Web Services