If you enjoy working with people and for the people, you will enjoy a career in human resources. Generally, in this field, you act as an advocate for the employee. They will look to you for support and assistance when they have issues concerning their employment, whether it is good or bad. There are a few key personality traits and skills you will need to help your job go smoothly. Although many skills can be obtained through your online Bachelor of Human Resources degree program, rest assured, some traits just come naturally and cannot be learned.
To be a successful HR manager, you must know your stuff! Earning an online Bachelor of Human Resources degree is the best start for you. The program will teach you the fundamentals of handling human resource issues, as well as, the psychology involved with managing employees in the workplace setting.
You must be a multi-tasker! Can you handle multiple problems at one time? Can you manage the stress of the profession? Will you know what to do if Liz just got fired, and Joe needs to sign up for healthcare, and Stan in accounting needs an immediate replacement… all at the same time? Everyone’s issue will seem like an emergency to them, and you will need to know how to handle each problem individually. There will be no time for a breakdown!
Another key to an HR specialist’s success is excellent communication. You must be capable of effectively communicating with all persons involved, including oral and written communication, for often mediation is required between parties.
Do you have a sound sense of ethics and know the legal ramifications of your statements or decisions? Your online Bachelor of Human Resources degree program will teach you the legal side of human resources; however, you may attain addition knowledge through certification programs that specialize in law and ethics.
Are you a born leader? A human resources manager must be willing to take the lead, know how to manage their department effectively, and adequately show authority. As a leader, you may not be able to forge the friendships in the workplace as others do. If you’re the boss, be the boss!
Now, there are times when harshness can be put aside, and your motivational speaker side will need to emerge. When employees are stressed and going through tough times in the workplace, your job will be to encourage, as well as, assist them with their problem. Perhaps, your second title will be “the cheerleader!” Scorned employees expect their human resources manager to work fairly to solve the issue, and to ensure them that they are being taken seriously, all while maintaining your sense of loyalty to the company you work for, in addition to, adhering to company policies.
Other pertinent skills will be needed, of course. Are you well-organized? A problem-solver? A critical-thinker? Do you pay attention to details? Do you have compassion for others? If so, you’re the perfect candidate for a position in the field of human resources. If you are interested in this rewarding and fulfilling field, please check out our picks for the Best Online Schools for Bachelor of Human Resources Degree Programs.