How can you find HR career information and connections?

1 Research HR career paths

One of the first steps to finding HR career information and connections is to research the different HR career paths and roles that exist. HR is not a one-size-fits-all profession, and there are many specialties and levels of responsibility within it. For example, you might be interested in becoming an HR generalist, an HR specialist, an HR manager, an HR director, or an HR consultant. Each of these roles has different skills, qualifications, and tasks, and they may vary depending on the industry, sector, and size of the organization. You can use online sources, such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), or the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), to learn more about the typical duties, education, certification, and salary of different HR roles.

2 Join HR associations and networks

Another way to find HR career information and connections is to join HR associations and networks that can provide you with professional development, networking, and mentoring opportunities. There are many local, national, and international HR associations and networks that cater to different interests, needs, and goals of HR professionals. For example, you might join SHRM, the largest HR association in the world, which offers membership benefits such as access to research, publications, webinars, events, and online communities. You might also join niche HR networks, such as the National Human Resources Association (NHRA), the Association for Talent Development (ATD), or the International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM), which focus on specific aspects or functions of HR.

3 Follow HR blogs and podcasts

A third way to find HR career information and connections is to follow HR blogs and podcasts that can keep you updated on the latest trends, insights, and best practices in the field. HR blogs and podcasts can offer you valuable content, perspectives, and advice from experts, practitioners, and influencers in HR. You can learn from their experiences, stories, and opinions, and also engage with them and other readers or listeners through comments or social media. Some examples of popular HR blogs and podcasts are HR Bartender, Workology, HR Happy Hour, and The HR Social Hour.

4 Attend HR events and webinars

A fourth way to find HR career information and connections is to attend HR events and webinars that can expose you to new ideas, knowledge, and people in the field. HR events and webinars can range from local workshops and seminars to national conferences and symposiums. They can cover various topics, such as HR strategy, leadership, diversity, technology, compliance, and more. By attending HR events and webinars, you can learn from experts and speakers, network with peers and mentors, and showcase your skills and achievements. You can find HR events and webinars through HR associations and networks, online platforms, such as Eventbrite or Meetup, or your own employer or educational institution.

5 Connect with HR mentors and coaches

A fifth way to find HR career information and connections is to connect with HR mentors and coaches who can guide you, support you, and challenge you in your career journey. HR mentors and coaches are experienced HR professionals who can offer you personalized feedback, advice, and resources to help you grow and succeed in the field. They can also introduce you to other HR contacts, opportunities, and organizations that can enhance your career prospects. You can find HR mentors and coaches through HR associations and networks, online platforms, such as MentorCity or CoachHub, or your own employer or educational institution.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?