The leap from HR graduate to employee can be daunting and how to get an entry-level job in HR is one of the most asked questions we get. With a few tips, you can put your hard-earned skills from your recent studies to work.
- know your strengths and weaknesses
What we often forget is that a resume and an interview is a situation where we sell ourselves as employees. It is important that we understand what our strengths are compared to other candidates and showcase these. At the same time, it is important to know where your weaknesses are so you can address these or maybe even work on improving them.
- network, network, network!
You have probably heard this all the way through your studies, but networking is key to getting an entry-level position. Most universities hold job fairs, but another way of networking could be attending training by AHRI, HR Partners, etc. At these events you have the possibility to introduce yourself to other HR professionals, and start building your network. Another great networking tool is LinkedIn, where you can connect, comment and produce content for your passion within HR.
- start with an HR Admin role
Most of us get out of university thinking we are going to be HR Managers, only to find out this requires experience (Wait, what?). We call this realisation the ‘Uni Blues’. Whilst taking that first HR Admin job may hurt your confidence, we often see skilled HR Graduates quickly excel from this point as companies realise the potential that this person has. It is always easier to show a company what your capabilities are, instead of telling them.
- take a temporary or contract role
There are many conceptions about temporary roles, but one key point for taking temporary or contract roles is that it gives you experience. Even if it is only a couple of months, it gives you exposure, it builds on your network and maybe if you perform well in the role this might turn into a permanent role.
- strengthen your skill set
A career in HR means wearing many different hats, especially if you picture yourself working for larger organisations. Continuous learning should be at the forefront of your priorities, even after you have graduated and a good way to start is to analyse the job you want to get into in the next two to three years and identify what skills are required for this role. This could include doing Return to Work Coordinator training, improving on your excel skills or something specific to the industry you are looking at entering.