How to Become a Certified Human Resources Professional
Organizations that hire human resources (HR) professionals are increasingly requiring these workers to be certified in the field. Having an HR certification means that you have comprehensive, expert-level knowledge in HR subject matters inclusive of hiring laws, recruitment, organizational development, strategic planning, employee training, benefits and compensation, occupational safety and labor relations.
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Instructions
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Find out what organizations are designated and accredited to give exams to individuals who are seeking to become certified HR professionals. Take courses to prepare for those exams. Some accredited universities and colleges, such as the University of Phoenix, provide Human Resources Certification programs that can be completed online. Human-resources associations, such as the HRCI Human Resource Certification Institute, also provide certification programs and administer exams for both the PHR (Professional Human Resources) and SPHR (Senior Professional Human Resources) certifications. Other organizations that offer certifications are the IPMA International Personnel Management Association and National Human Resources Association.
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Conduct research on various organizations or associations and join the one that is most suitable for you based on your experience and the requirements for membership. Most organizations and associations have memberships available for students as well as experienced high-level HR professionals. Once you have obtained a membership, utilize that membership to network with other professionals, as well as read and keep apprised of HR news, facts, laws and other information to educate you on changes within the industry. Attend conferences and trainings. Read association-approved and recommended books and magazines related to HR.
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Review the requirements for what is needed in order to pass the HR exam. Take HR Certification practice tests and join study groups. Take HR exam preparation courses. Designate at least three to four hours daily to go over practice tests, HR terms, laws and acts (academic programs, such as the one at the University of Phoenix, build this practice into your course schedule). If you work in the HR field, use the knowledge you have gained on the job. This reinforces information and HR principles that you have learned.
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Apply online and or register to take a human-resources certification exam. Examinations are usually given once or twice a year. Prior to taking the exam, read and review "PHR Exam Secrets Study Guide: PHR Test Review for the Professional in Human Resources Certification Exams by PHR Exam," written by the Secrets Test Prep Team.
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