Feeling Stuck in Finance? Exploring a Career Switch to HR – Is It the Right Move?

Hi all,

I am Vijay Karthik. I have completed an engineering degree in ECE and finished my MBA in Finance and Systems. I don't find any great opportunities in the finance sector. Now, I would like to switch over to the HR stream so that my career can be in growth mode. Can anybody explain whether my idea is okay or not, and how I can switch to the HR stream?

Vijay Karthik,
OD Cell,
SMS.

Hi dear,

Regarding your doubt, I would like to suggest that you can join a distance learning HR course. Your finance background will help you work well on compensation and reward systems, enabling you to justify HR as a profit center. You should have a strong understanding of Organizational Behavior and the basic functions of HR.

There are plenty of posts on this forum that will assist you in learning and understanding this field.

I am also specialized in HR and Finance.

Regards and all the best

Hi Vijay,

Please note the following before thinking about the switch of careers:

a) If your reason for leaving finance is the inability to find good opportunities, then it's an absolutely wrong reason. The finance sector is growing faster than any other in India right now. Therefore, you will have to try harder if you do want a good opportunity in finance. I would suggest approaching the right consultants.

b) HR is for people who have a flair for it. All the HR personnel who have succeeded in the industry are excellent people persons and are individuals who wanted to build their careers in HR. There is a lot of sacrifice and cost involved in the growth of an HR professional. There are always problems to address, targets to achieve, and most of the time, you are blamed for things that are beyond your control. Additionally, after a job well done, there is not much adulation except from your team members.

Consider the above, and if you possess the necessary qualities, shifting to HR is not a bad option.

Remember, the grass is always greener on the other side.

Regards,

AJ

Hi Vijay,

I guess the last post by thinkjobs has already provided you with some really good points. However, just to answer the question that is the topic of this post: you don't have to be an MBA in HR to be an HR Professional. Trust me, Vijay, HR is much more than just logic, understanding of acts, human beings, and coordination. You can't learn everything in an MBA, although it's certainly an advantage!

Thanks

Dear friends,

I have finished my UG and PG in reputed colleges. "But did I make a mistake doing my MBA as my PG course?" I said I don't find great opportunities because I find only KPO & BPO for MBA Finance. Do you feel it is okay to take up these jobs? The main thing, do you feel a BE with MBA will not have the ability to serve as a Finance Person?

I am now working in the Organizational Development Cell doing a lot of analysis kind of stuff. Is this the right choice?

Vijay Karthik

I fully agree. If one could not find opportunities in any function, the situation remains the same in any other function. Should rethink on the ideas. Should take the suggestions positively.

Regards, Dr. Kishore

This is what is expected from an MBA, so-called "Analysis." You may decide to work in any area where you find enjoyment, fun, as well as value addition to your career growth.

Just to cite one of the prominent personalities in the corporate world - T. V. Mohandas Pai - Member of the Board and Director of Human Resources. He is a Fellow Chartered Accountant. You may visit his profile at the link mentioned below:
Infosys - About Infosys | Management Profiles | T.V. Mohandas Pai
(link updated to site home)
(Search On Cite | Search On Google)

Regards, DN

Dear friends,

I have finished my UG and PG in reputable colleges.

"But did I make a mistake doing my MBA as my PG course?"

I said I don't find great opportunities because I only find KPO & BPO for MBA Finance. Do you feel it is okay to take up these jobs? The main thing: do you feel a BE with an MBA will not have the ability to serve as a Finance Person?

I am now working in the Organizational Development Cell, doing a lot of analysis kind of stuff. Is this the right choice?

Vijay Karthik

Hi Vijay,

I guess now you asked the right question not just in the forum but to yourself too.

The problem that you are being offered options in BPO's & KPO's is because you would have had experience in the same.

If you plan to continue with finance as a career option, then you can either join any of the banks, insurance companies, or even trading companies (stocks & non-stocks).

In all of the above, the first job you might get will not give you the salary that you are being paid by a KPO or a BPO. But each of the jobs comes with a promise of growth in your role.

Here the benefit is even if you plan to shift careers to HR, the same is going to happen.

Also, your current job of analysis doesn't come with a lot of promise either. You shouldn't worry about finance being only for people who have done BE with an MBA; most of the finance postgraduates you notice are BCom with MBA guys.

Also, as a career plan, why don't you look into SAP? It's an excellent tool and a very good addition to your profile.

Regards,

AJ

Hi,

I don't know how to calculate TDS. Can anybody help me with TDS for interest, commission, rent, and other related matters?

Hi,

Please refer to other posts in the forum, specifically the finance management section. You will be able to find solutions to your queries there.

In addition, I have attached a tax calculator for your reference. Please consult a tax consultant for finalization. You can utilize the Excel cells for the calculations.

Regards,
AJ

Hi all,

I have finished a BE and MBA. Do you think that for a finance person, having a BCom with an MBA is more advantageous than having a BE with an MBA?

I am interested in Market research and Equity research. I am skilled in using management software and effectively utilizing MS Office applications. I have designed many database systems and have an interest in using various animation tools.

Would learning SAP add value to my skills?

How can I proceed with my career path?

Vijay Karthik

Hi Vijay,

It's impressive that you already know what you want to do. It's not a necessity that for a finance role you require a BCom. The preference of companies to hire a BE is that generally, BE graduates from reputable institutes are quite smart candidates. Also, the logic is that BE graduates can be considered to have better reasoning abilities.

Learning the SAP FI module will definitely help you in getting a good opening, but please ensure that you do so from a certified institute such as Siemens or Genovate, etc.

Thanks & Regards,
AJ

Hi,

I am boosted with confidence because of your reply. Can you help me in understanding the SAP - FI Module and how to become a certified SAP Professional?

Please,

Vijay Karthik

Referring to the comments made by thinkjobs in response to the problem posed by vijaykarthikmouli regarding SAP as a feasible career option, I must say that there is no point in taking SAP for a fresher. A fresher, even after spending a good amount of money and learning SAP, will be unable to get a job since to get hold of a job in SAP, you need to have at least 3 years of functional experience. - Dev

Hi Vijay,

I wanted to share that I did something similar. I completed my MBA in Finance and then shifted to HR because I wanted to work with people, and I have a flair for it. It's not that difficult if that's what you want to do, you know.

However, if your interest lies in equity research, why would you want to shift? For SAP, you really need domain experience. Trust me, without it, you won't be able to understand much.

So, think carefully before deciding on anything. It seems you are involved in the analysis of HR data. Why not continue doing that and obtain a qualification in HR? It would really help, maybe through a long-distance course.

Let me know what you think about it. Take care. :-)

Hi Vijay,

I agree 100% with the two quotes above from Mr. AJ and Sumit. I also had a similar doubt to yours when I shifted my focus from Finance to HR after around 7 years of exposure in the former domain. Certainly, it is important to have broad and critical thinking. Like Finance, HR has become a prime area of talent investment. HR is now an essential and dynamic part of living in the corporate world.

However, one must stay updated about the latest methodologies and models of corporate HR.

All the best,

Hi guys,

I definitely don't recommend SAP to freshers. In any case, if freshers do contact the mentioned certification institutes, they would guide you in the same manner. The requirement was for information on SAP, and hence the details were forwarded.

Regards,
AJ

Hi Vijay,

You can switch over. You can learn; it's not a difficult one. Don't keep changing. Changes are good, but not always.

Regards, Balaji, Training & Development Executive in an MNC, Mumbai.

Hi Vijay,

You seem to be a little confused. Switching just due to the low job opportunity seems to be inappropriate. As mentioned earlier, the finance sector is growing more rapidly than any other sector. In my opinion, you should look into the area of "Wealth Management" based on your profile; there is a lot to be explored in this field.

At this point, switching to the HR domain will amount to starting from ground zero, which, in my view, is not a wise decision.

Think again about all the areas before deciding.

Thanks,
Sajid Sultan

Hi,

It's good if you choose your career based on what you are really good at (not what you want or what you can). If you excel in analytical work, consider a career in Finance. If you have strong relationship management skills, excellent listening abilities, and are willing to work with people no matter what it takes, then consider HR, but ensure you focus on a specific vertical within HR. Formal education is necessary if you aim to secure opportunities with large corporations. If money is your sole motivation, a career in sales may be the most suitable option for you.

Understand your financial requirements, plan for your growth, and estimate your future needs (ensure the figures are realistic); this will assist you in the decision-making process. Don't be swayed by my recommendations; they are simply options for you to consider. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Regards

Hi Vijay,

I think the opposite... I think there are not enough opportunities in HR. If you want to take my opinion, just stick to finance. The rest is all up to you.

Hi, I am Prajwal Jaigopal. I am planning to take up the certification course for the Green Belt Six Sigma through QCI, IRCA, or NRPBT. Hence, to have a basic knowledge, I am planning to study about the Six Sigma Yellow Belt through a good book. Can anyone please refer me to a well-authored book for the Yellow Belt Six Sigma and provide me with the right help for my endeavor?

Hi!

I myself graduated from one of the most reputed B-schools in India and have been in the HR field for the past 3 years. I am enjoying it, no doubt. However, as mentioned by some people, a lot of sacrifices are involved, and the monetary compensation is definitely less compared to other verticals.

Therefore, I am pursuing an MS in finance to facilitate a gradual shift in my career path.

Hope for the best.

Regards,
Anup

Hello, there is no harm in thinking for the HR sector. But before that, prepare yourself with the following points:

1. We should have a sense of understanding of core HR burning issues.
2. We must have basic concept clarity.
3. How can we deliver better than that of other prospective freshers? Brainstorming is required.
4. There is a definite link between HR/Finance/Engineering, but we have to understand it sincerely.
5. Strong preparation before appearing for any HR job-related interview... Can take help from certain senior people who are directly in your contact.

We can hope for the best. Best wishes!
Prof. Prashant

Hi,

The grass on the other side of the fence always looks greener. Personally, I feel that one can shine in any area provided he or she is willing to put in hard work with all sincerity, despite the fewer opportunities available for whatever reason. One cannot keep a good guy down for long, you see.

HR requires excellent people skills, diplomacy, tact, good communication skills, persuading capacity, and so on. While it is not uncommon to come across personnel in various organizations crossing over to other functions, whether by choice or otherwise, it is very important to be aware of the pluses and minuses of the field you are getting into. HR means hard work and many times with more brickbats than bouquets. Nevertheless, it is one of the most interesting and intriguing fields to be in, well-suited for those who thrive on challenges because you are dealing with human beings, their emotions, their idiosyncrasies, and so on.

If you have firmly decided to get into HR, well, get cracking on gaining more knowledge of HR through a specialized degree if possible at the earliest. Of course, you will definitely have studied HR as a compulsory paper after completing your MBA, so no qualms about getting into HR. Welcome. In fact, finance and HR make a deadly combination to arrive at the most beneficial for an organization.

Warm Regards, RGS.

Hi, Mr. Vijay,

My views are... Nowadays, employment opportunities are abundant; however, employability is low (i.e., the ability to be employed). Currently, there is a high demand for professionals in the finance sector. In my practical opinion, consider seeking a job in the financial field through references to gain experience. Subsequently, you could transition to HR, if that is your preference. Pursuing an MBA in HR solely due to difficulties in securing a finance job would not be a genuine or advisable approach. Remember, challenges exist in every industry; it is essential to focus on overcoming them and set a deadline to secure a job. You can achieve it. If not you, then who will?

Best of luck.

Thanks,
Gobi

Dear Vijay,

I am basically an MBA Finance candidate. After completing my MBA, I joined a 1-year PGDPM & IR program at Annamalai University. By God's grace, I have secured an HR opening, and now I have over 5 years of experience in HR.

My suggestion for you is to complete an HR course to improve your HR skill set. Your performance in the interview will play a crucial role.

All the best.

Regards,
A Renu

"Hi all,
I am Vijay Karthik. I have an engineering degree in ECE and have completed my MBA in Finance and Systems. I have not found many opportunities in the finance sector, so I am considering switching to HR to advance my career. Can anyone advise me if this is a good idea and how I can transition to the HR field?

Vijay Karthik
OD Cell
SMS."

Hi everybody,

The only doubt I have is why companies are not utilizing MBAs as MBAs. Why are finance MBAs not considered as much compared to B.Com and M.Com graduates? Why are they not equally treated? Is it because companies don't require MBA excellence with finance knowledge? What do they expect from MBAs?

I want to know what exactly an MBA finance person does? 🤔
As an MBA Finance individual, what is expected from him? 🤔
What skills should an MBA Finance professional possess? 🤔
How can I leverage my knowledge in BE (ECE) and MBA (Finance & System) for my growth? 🤔

Please,
Vijay Karthik

Warm Greetings,

Yes, he can. I am the best example for your question. I have done my MBA in Finance and HR, and I manage the complete process of the company.

Regards,

Hey Karthik,

Your qualifications are fair enough to grab an opportunity anywhere. Getting an opportunity might take a while; however, changing fields won't be of great help. You would have pursued your MBA in Finance and Systems after considering the career opportunities in those fields. Just by not getting an opportunity in those fields now, you feel that you should go for HR. Since now you would have realized that there are opportunities in the HR field and not in finance and systems. Tomorrow, if you are unable to adjust to the HR field, then you might look out for some other field. Everybody gets an opportunity; however, few get it sooner, and for a few, it takes a while. You have done management, and that will definitely help you be one step ahead of plain graduates. Keep your cool and learn what the finance and systems-based opportunity demands. It has always been a demand and supply rule: meet the expectations of the opportunities, and you will be hired.

Regards,
PJ

Please decide whether you will like the profile of an HR professional or not, then only decide to switch from one option to the other.

Amrita

Dear RGS,

I am from a technical background but very much interested in HR. However, at times, I am a little confused about whether it will help in my career. Thanks again for clarifying that if one is interested, it's best to go ahead. Thanks a lot.

Abhinav.

Hi Vijay,
I would def not want you to go to HR coz u r a BE,MBA with finance & Systems......I .
Offers from Research/Financial Analytics will not come just like dat or not easy to get in. you shud narrow down to the extent like what companies you r targeting
I would advise you to start doing ground work and identify the companies into Investment Research (Equities, Credit, Quantitative) – Investment Banking firms....
But first u shud be very clear in what role u would be doing as an Analyst. MBA Fin is alone not enough (unless u are from top B schools).
You shud be very strong in economics, accounting, capital markets, understating biz/industry, numbers and analysis, bit of financial modelling and knowledge about equity would do
Kindly be patient and study ur target market well and prepare yourself to take up the profile that u aspire.
ALL THE BEST
Regds
SMR

Hi Vijay,

I agree with what Mr. AJ has to say. One must have the flair for HR if you really want to be into it.

Well, I have a PG in Finance. Initially, I started as a Management Trainee in the Finance department of a Swedish multinational, where I got an opportunity to work in HR as well. I worked with them for almost 1 year and 7 months until I realized that my inclination was more towards HR.

Since I had a background in Accounting, Finance, and Payroll (which also forms a part of C&B), I could secure a good opening in Kuwait in HR as an Executive-HR. My initial responsibility was to manage the entire Payroll team that handles the payroll of 5000 employees.

Having a management degree also helped me to take up other tasks in HR. Later on, I got into Recruitment as well. So for the past 1 year and 9 months, I have been handling recruitment as well as payroll. Being in Payroll also helped me to get into grievance handling of employees, which aided in honing my problem-solving skills. Once you can prove yourself, you will keep getting work and recognition, be it in any field.

What I am trying to say here is, please decide first if you really want to get into HR and whether you have a flair for it. If yes, then the first step would be to acquire adequate knowledge and then get into HR through your area of expertise. Do some short courses in C&B if possible.

Once in... the sky is the limit.

Let me know in case you need any help. My email is dheeraj.lalvaney@gmail.com.

Regards,
Dheeraj

Hi Vijay,

I personally appreciate your decision to change your career from finance to HR. Your past experience in areas such as compensation and benefits and HR analysis will be valuable in your new role.

Thanks to Devnandha for sharing Mr. Mohandas Pai's profile. Stay positive and all the best.

Hi guys,

I have the same problem as Mr. Vijay. I am currently pursuing an MBA and plan to take up dual specialization in Finance and HR. My graduation has been in Finance. Now, I am confused about whether the combination of HR and Finance would be suitable for final placements. Also, please provide an overview of the profiles that are available for people who have such combinations.

Thanks a lot

Hi,

I found this site quite important for MBA students. I am also facing the same problem as others. I am currently pursuing an MBA and hold a degree in commerce. I am considering majoring in finance and minoring in marketing. However, the issue is that I have completed my training in HR. After my summer training, I realized that marketing would be a better option along with finance, instead of HR.

If I choose finance with marketing and later apply for a job, will this pose a problem because of my HR training certificate? I also have a finance project report prepared by another student. I want finance as my major subject. I am quite confused about which subject to choose. Does the training certificate matter when applying for a job?

Please provide your valuable suggestions to me.

Thank you in advance.

Warm greetings,

Yes, he can. I am the best example for your question. I have completed my MBA in Finance and HR, and I manage the complete process of the company.

Regards,

Your specialization is in HR as a major and Finance as a minor. But, over here, the problem is vice versa.

Hi to all,

I am doing MBA. I have to choose a specialization in either finance or HR as my major for the next semester. I am very confused about my interest. I am not able to decide where I want to take my career. I now feel that I don't have the core knowledge of finance. Up to final accounts, I find accounting awesome. However, when it comes to trading or the stock exchange, I lose interest. Everyone says I need to sell insurance policies or handle demat accounts in the first two years. I can't do these kinds of jobs. My friends say my personality matches that of an HR person. They believe I could excel in human resources as well. Since I come from a commerce background and have a BBA degree, I am taking a lot of time to let go of finance as my subject. I repeat, I don't have much knowledge of finance. But if I decide once, I will be able to learn all those concepts. Please help me, everyone.

Amanpreet

Hi, I found this site quite important for MBA students. I am also facing a similar problem like others. I am pursuing an MBA and I am a commerce graduate. I am considering majoring in finance and minoring in marketing. However, the issue is that I have completed my training in HR. After my summer training, I realized that marketing is a better option to combine with finance rather than HR. If I choose finance along with marketing and apply for jobs in the future, will this pose a problem because of my HR training certificate? I also have a finance project report prepared by another student. I want finance as my major subject. Please help me as I am confused about which subject to choose. Does a training certificate matter when applying for a job? Kindly provide your valuable suggestions to me. Thank you in advance.