How to grow your HR career

The world of Human Resources (HR) is constantly evolving, offering exciting opportunities for skilled professionals. If you're passionate about people, strategy, and driving organisational success, read our tips to support your HR career advancement or start looking for HR jobs now.

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Tips for HR career development

Stay competitive by staying up to date

Key trends shaping the HR landscape

At Michael Page, we’re seeing organisations we work with and beyond, become increasingly focused on these key areas:

• Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is revolutionising HR processes, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and employee experience.
   
• Skills-based hiring: Organisations are shifting away from traditional qualifications and focusing on the specific skills and competencies needed for success.
   
• Squiggly careers: As the workplace evolves, so too do career expectations. A linear career path is becoming less common, as many individuals are now pursuing non-traditional and flexible career paths.
   
• Talent management strategies: In today's competitive market, organisations are investing in effective talent management strategies, which are essential to attract, develop, and retain top talent, ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline.

To stay ahead, make sure to continuously update your knowledge on trends like these. Connect with recruiters like Michael Page and check out our advice articles for the insights on the latest HR trends, technologies, and industry best practices.

Give yourself the extra leg up by expanding your network. Attend conferences, webinars, workshops, and engage in online learning platforms. Why not check out the latest insights from our AI in HR webinar to get started?

Build strong relationships  

Cultivate strong relationships with colleagues, managers, and external stakeholders. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for building trust, resolving conflicts, and influencing decision-making.

Develop your leadership skills  

Hone your leadership abilities to inspire and motivate teams. Seek opportunities to lead projects, mentor colleagues, and take on challenging assignments. 

Develop your emotional intelligence to effectively manage relationships and navigate complex situations. While technical skills are essential, in a people-centric role, soft skills are key. Learn more about the most in-demand soft skills.

Specialise in a niche area  

Consider specialising in a specific HR area, such as talent acquisition, employee relations, or compensation and benefits. By becoming an expert in a particular area, you can increase your value to employers and unlock new career opportunities.

Get relevant certifications  

While a degree in HR or a related field can be beneficial, specific requirements vary depending on the role, organisation, and sector. 

Earning HR certifications recognised by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) can significantly enhance your credibility, validate your expertise, and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

The CIPD is the primary professional body for HR and people development in the UK. They offer various certifications and qualifications, such as:

• CIPD Level 3 Certificate in HR Practice: Foundational qualification for those starting their HR career or working in HR support roles.
   
• CIPD Level 5 Diploma in HR Practice: Advanced qualification for HR professionals seeking to progress to senior roles.
   
• CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in HR Practice: Postgraduate-level qualification for experienced HR professionals aspiring to strategic leadership roles.

These CIPD qualifications are widely recognised across the UK and are often required for senior HR positions.

Leverage technology

Embrace HR technology tools to streamline processes, analyse data, and make informed decisions. Stay up to date with the latest HR technology trends and explore opportunities to automate tasks and improve efficiency.

Network effectively

Build a strong professional network by attending industry events, joining HR associations, and connecting with other HR professionals on LinkedIn. 

Networking can help you stay informed about industry trends, find job opportunities, and seek advice from other experienced individuals. If you’re currently job hunting, why not connect with recruiters from Michael Page via LinkedIn and keep an eye out for their latest posts?

A spotlight on popular HR roles

The role of the HR department continues to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of businesses. While traditional HR functions remain important, the focus has shifted towards strategic HR, employee experience, and data-driven decision-making that support business objectives.  

Consider these popular HR roles below and if you’re new to the world of HR, read more about how to start a career in HR with no experience.

• HR Assistant: HR Assistants provide administrative support to the HR team, including tasks such as onboarding new hires, managing employee records, and assisting with payroll.
   
• Talent Acquisition Manager: As a Talent Acquisition Manager, you'll be at the forefront of building exceptional teams. Your responsibilities will include sourcing top talent, managing the recruitment process, and crafting compelling employer branding strategies.
   
• HR Manager: As an HR Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping organisational culture and ensuring compliance. Your duties will encompass employee relations, performance management, and strategic HR initiatives.
   
• Head of HR: As a Head of HR, you'll lead the entire HR function, driving business growth and employee engagement. You'll be responsible for developing and executing HR strategies aligned with the organisation's overall goals.

Your next step: A brighter HR future

If you're ready to take your HR career to new heights, explore live Human Resources jobs at Michael Page today, submit your CV or sign up for alerts today to connect with our expert HR recruiters.

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