Human Resources (HR) is the backbone of any organization, focusing on managing people, fostering workplace culture, and aligning talent with business goals.
For career changers, HR offers a dynamic and rewarding path, leveraging transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and project management.
This article explores the core roles within HR and practical steps to break into the field.
What is HR?
HR is the department within an organization responsible for managing its workforce, including hiring, training, employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Human Resources fosters a positive workplace culture and aligns employee goals with organizational objectives.
HR Responsibilities and Misconceptions
HR plays a vital role in unlocking the potential of an organization’s greatest asset—its people. It encompasses a variety of intersecting functions, including People Operations, Learning and Development, and Organizational Development. Key responsibilities include:
- Recruiting and onboarding talent
- Managing employee benefits
- Resolving workplace conflicts
- Fostering a positive organizational culture
- Aligning employee goals with business objectives
- Ensuring compliance with labor laws
- Driving overall company success
And, despite common misconceptions that HR is solely administrative, the field involves strategic decision-making and shaping policies that impact every level of the organization.
Ultimately, HR supports employees’ professional growth and the company’s long-term goals.
HR Jobs, Outlook, and Salaries
Human Resources plays a crucial role in an organization’s daily operations by managing and supporting its workforce. Accordingly, the job outlook for HR professionals is strong, with employment of human resources managers expected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031.
Organizations drive the demand for HR roles as they adapt to evolving workplace dynamics, such as the rise of remote work. And, to the benefit of career changers, as the job outlook grows, HR jobs are abundant. Here are some key HR roles and median salaries based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
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| HR Role | Description | Median annual wage |
|---|---|---|
| HR Assistant | Perform clerical duties; post job openings, screen resumes, schedule interviews, and coordinate with candidates; assist with the onboarding process; help address employee inquiries | $47,710 |
| Human Resources Specialists | Handle recruiting, interviewing, and hiring processes; manage employee records; and assist in policy implementation. | $62,290 |
| Benefits Specialist | Communicate and administer employee benefits, manage benefits vendors track and report data, and assist in benefits strategy | $74,530 |
| Employee Relations Specialist | Resolve workplace conflicts, ensure compliance, provide guidance, and conduct investigations | $89,980 |
How to Transition into HR
Transitioning into a career in HR starts with understanding the qualifications and skills employers seek.
1. Skills development
While a degree in human resources, business, or a related field can provide a strong foundation, it’s not the only way to enter the field. Certificates and certifications like the SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional) or aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) are excellent options to showcase your expertise and commitment to HR, especially for career changers.
These credentials are widely recognized in the industry and can give you an edge when competing for HR roles. Additionally, online courses and HR-specific training programs can help you build essential skills quickly.
2. Building industry connections
Networking is a powerful tool for breaking into HR.
Joining professional associations like SHRM or attending HR-focused events can connect you with industry professionals and potential mentors.
LinkedIn is another invaluable platform for networking. Consider following HR leaders, joining HR groups, and engaging with relevant content to build your online presence.
Informational interviews with HR professionals can also provide insights into the field and help you understand what employers value in a candidate transitioning from another industry.
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3. Market your experience
Leveraging your prior experience is key to standing out during interviews.
Many skills from other industries seamlessly transfer to a career in HR. These transferable skills make career changers well-equipped to thrive in HR roles.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for building relationships and fostering collaboration.
- Problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities help manage workplace challenges effectively.
- Organizational and project management skills are equally valuable for handling multiple HR tasks like recruitment, training, and policy implementation.
Tailor your resume and interview responses to demonstrate how your background equips you to succeed in HR. Don’t hesitate to share examples of how you’ve successfully applied these skills in the past. This approach shows employers that you’re ready to hit the ground running in your new career.
The Benefits of a Career in HR
A career in HR offers abundant opportunities for growth and specialization, from roles in HR management to areas like talent development, employee relations, and diversity and inclusion.
HR professionals have a meaningful impact on shaping organizational culture, improving employee well-being, and driving engagement. The field often provides flexibility, with options for remote or hybrid work arrangements and adaptable schedules in many positions.
For those seeking a career that combines strategic thinking with interpersonal connection, HR provides a rewarding balance of challenge and fulfillment.
Is HR the Right Path for You?
Human Resources is more than policies and paperwork—it’s a dynamic field where you can make a meaningful impact. HR empowers people, shapes workplace culture, and drives organizational growth. The best part? Many of the skills you need to succeed in HR are ones you may already have.
HR is an ideal path for career changers, those without a degree, or anyone looking for a non-technical role. That’s because the qualities needed to thrive in HR—like communication, organization, and interpersonal skills—are highly transferable from other careers. If you’ve ever led a team, supported colleagues, or managed tasks effectively, you already have a strong foundation to build on.
At Merit America, we help translate your existing strengths into workforce-ready skills. Through our Human Resources Career Track, you’ll gain the technical expertise, professional development, and confidence to launch a fulfilling HR career—all in just 18 weeks.
Here’s what you’ll achieve:
- 150+ hours of technical training and 70+ hours of professional skills development.
- Mastery of HR essentials like talent acquisition, employee relations, and legal compliance.
- Hands-on experience with industry tools, including Microsoft Suite and Workday.
- Preparation to pass the aPHR certification exam, unlocking access to 91,000+ entry-level HR jobs across the U.S.
With Merit America’s career coaches by your side, you’ll receive job placement support to step into roles like HR Assistant, HR Coordinator, and Recruitment Coordinator—entry-level positions that offer starting salaries averaging $52,000+ annually, according to 2024 Lightcast data.
Ready to take your first step into an HR career?