How to Find a Human Resources Job

Human Resource departments are now multi-layered units that employ specialists in everything from recruitment to employee relations to health and safety issues. If you are just starting out in HR, or if you want to find a more challenging position, there are many ways to hone your search and get the human resources job of your dreams.

Instructions

1. Target a specific job title. It's not enough to say, "I want to work in your HR Department." There are over a dozen specialized positions in human resources, including consultant, recruiter, caseworker, psychologist, generalist, safety coordinator and HR Director.

2. Upgrade your skills. Many colleges offer certificates in human resources, with instruction in areas like labor relations, health and safety regulations, compensation and benefits and workforce planning. Earning a certification in the field can give you a competitive edge over other job candidates.

3. Tweak your cover letter and resume. Highlight specific skills and accomplishments, with an emphasis on how the programs, policies or recruitment efforts you fostered benefited your previous employers.

4. Think about what is important to you at this stage of your career. With all the sub-specialties that are now available for HR professionals, a position as a recruiter or generalist may not prove challenging enough for your skill set.

5. Research different companies and their polices. This will not only help whittle your choices down to the most appropriate one for your needs and abilities, but it will enable you to ask specific questions about each company during job interviews.

6. Proofread your resume, and contact friends, family members and associates about job leads. Search all the usual markets like Monster.com and the help-wanted section of your local newspaper.

Resources

• Monster Jobs