Careers in HR Consulting

To operate efficiently and at maximum productivity, most organizations need to hire and retain staff. For companies that are too small or unable to hire human resources (HR) personnel, HR consultants are available to assist firms with everything from job advertising to interviewing. Similar to consultants in other industries, HR consultants work on a contractual basis since they are technically not a full-time employee of the hiring company.

Function

The primary function of HR consultants is to help their business clients find job candidates that match the qualifications outlined in the job posting. To successfully match candidates, HR consultants conduct extensive searches by posting on job boards, using employment databases and utilizing social media networks such as LinkedIn. Additionally, they review the job openings and employer requirements to ensure that applicants are well-suited for the position. Consultants also interview candidates and advise companies during the final decision-making process. Other tasks include developing and administering employee compensation plans.

Education

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HR positions, including consultants, specialists and coordinators, require a bachelor's degree in human resources administration, business or in the liberal arts. College courses in accounting, management, organizational structure, labor relations and industrial psychology help prepare for a career in human resources consulting. Additionally, employers may require that HR consultants hold a master's degree or MBA with a concentration in labor relations for more senior-level positions.

Potential

The BLS projected significant growth within the human resources field, predicting that jobs for HR professionals will increase by 22 percent from 2008 to 2018. Changing government legislation related to labor laws, minimum wages, retirement plans, family planning and equal opportunity in the job market will push growth in the sector. In addition, the BLS stated that management, consulting and employment services companies should offer job opportunities for HR consultants. Organizations will look to these firms for HR contractors in order to save money and maximize their training and employee development programs.

Salary

Based on the BLS "Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition," HR professionals in the United States earned an average annual wage of $59,070. However, annual wages for this profession very widely depending on location and industry. For instance, HR specialists in the District of Columbia earned an average salary of $92,940. In comparison, Wisconsin professionals only averaged an annual salary of $39,840. Likewise, HR professionals working in the petroleum and coal manufacturing industry reported the highest salaries by industry, earning an average of $85,200. Workers in business, professional, political and other similar organizations earned the lowest salaries, averaging $48,340.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Human Resources, Training, and Labor Relations Managers and Specialists
• University of Michigan Ross School of Business: Human Resources/Change Management
• Education-portal.com: HR Consultant -- Job Description and Education Requirements
• State University: Outplacement Consultant Job Description, Career as an Outplacement Consultant, Salary, Employment -- Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job