The Path to Becoming a Certified HR Professional

Hello! Pursuing a career in human resources can be a rewarding journey that allows you to make a significant impact on an organization's success. Becoming a certified HR professional involves a series of well-defined steps that include educational background, gaining work experience, choosing the right certification, and meeting eligibility requirements. Here is your comprehensive guide to achieving this coveted role.

1. Educational Background

A strong educational foundation is a fundamental step towards a career in HR. While a bachelor’s degree is not strictly required, having one greatly enhances your qualifications. Specializing in HR, business administration, or related fields will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Additionally, coursework in:

HR management organizational behavior employment law business ethics

can significantly benefit your future role as an HR professional. These subjects lay the groundwork for understanding the complexities of employee relations, legal frameworks, and ethical business practices.

2. Gain Work Experience

The practical experience gained through work is crucial in developing the skills you need for an HR career. Start with entry-level positions such as:

HR assistant HR coordinator

Seek opportunities to gradually take on more responsibility and challenge yourself with progressively responsible roles like:

HR generalist HR specialist

Achieving these roles not only enriches your resume but also prepares you for advanced HR positions.

3. Choose a Certification

Multitudes of organizations offer various HR certifications, each with unique areas of focus and requirements. Here are some of the most popular certifications:

SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP: Offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) PHR and SPHR: Offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) CHRP, CHRL, and CHRE: Offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) in Canada IPMA-HR CP and IPMA-HR SCP: Offered by the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR)

Each certification has its own specific criteria, and researching each one will help you identify the best fit for your career goals.

4. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before pursuing a certification, it is essential to meet its specific eligibility criteria. These typically include a combination of:

Education Experience

For example:

SHRM-CP might require 1-2 years of experience in an HR role for candidates with a bachelor’s degree. PHR certification might require 1-2 years of professional HR experience.

To find the most up-to-date requirements, always visit the certification body’s official website. This will provide you with the most accurate and detailed information needed to proceed.

5. Prepare for the Exam

To successfully pass your chosen certification exam, thorough preparation is necessary. This involves:

Using official study guides, textbooks, and online resources to understand the exam content. Enrolling in prep courses offered by reputable organizations like SHRM or HRCI. Joining study groups or online forums to share knowledge and tips with fellow candidates.

A well-rounded approach to exam preparation will maximize your chances of success.

6. Register and Take the Exam

The final step is to register for the exam through the appropriate certification body’s website. Ensure you:

Review and confirm the exam fee. Select a convenient date and location for your exam, usually conducted at testing centers.

After successfully passing the exam, you will be recognized as a certified HR professional, opening numerous doors for career advancement.

Continuing Education for Certification Maintenance

To continue to be an active and credentialed HR professional, ongoing education and development are essential. This includes:

Earning recertification credits as required by your certification body. Participating in professional development opportunities and continued education initiatives.

Additional resources:

SHRM Certification HRCI Certification HRPA Certification IPMA-HR Certification

By following these steps, you can embark on a fulfilling career in human resources and become a certified professional in the field.