Specialization Defines Human Resources Field

by Sarah Clark
Career Training Directory Columnist

More and more human resources professionals are developing specializations. Here are some of the unique skills and experience you can acquire to distinguish yourself in the human resources field.

In recent years, employers seem to be placing more value on people with specializations, whether those professionals are doctors, lawyers, managers, or computer programmers. The same trend is emerging in the human resources field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports on several of these emerging human resources specializations. Here are just a few.

Compensation and Benefits

These human resources professionals handle an organization’s wages and benefits operations. They help develop compensation structures and examine and establish benefits packages. Much of their work involves enrolling new employees in benefits programs, negotiating benefits packages with insurance companies, and periodically evaluating the competitiveness of their compensation plan.

Training

When a new company-wide software program is installed, employees must be trained to use it. When new financial procedures are implemented, employees must undergo orientation. Human resources professionals with training expertise help coordinate instructive sessions like these. They may also institute corporate university classes to promote professional development within an organization.

Recruitment

Recruitment specialists may travel to colleges, job fairs, and other events to recruit employees. Their job is partly sales driven, as they must lure the best candidates to their business. They have a keen understanding of job requirements that allows them to make quick and effective assessments of a job candidate’s suitability.

Labor Relations

If you sympathize with unions, you might enjoy working as a labor relations specialist. These human resources specialists may organize an industry or a group of workers employed at a single business. They negotiate with companies and with workers to promote fair compensation practices and safe working conditions.

International Human Resources

If you like to travel, you might like this specialization. International HR specialists help businesses with international operations manage their hiring and retention practices. Such professionals combine human resources expertise with international experience.

These are just a few of the many HR specializations you can choose from if you decide to pursue a career in the industry. If you’re a people person, and want to learn more about how to put your skills to good use, consider getting some career training in human relations.

About the author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in postsecondary education and career development.

Source(s):

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics