Feeling Stuck in My HR Role: Should I Leave for Better Opportunities and Growth?

Dear Seniors,

I am starting a new thread for the first time, so please help me out.

I am working as an HR officer in a manufacturing unit. My educational qualification is LL.B, and I have also done a PG diploma in business administration (Distance Learning).

My problem is that I have no fixed job profile. I am currently handling legal cases, administrative functions such as managing the canteen, housekeeping, the company's mess, maintenance of guest houses, recruitment at initial levels, coordinating in training and development, manpower requirements, and assisting in pollution control board consents and renewals. I am not handling statutory compliances as we have a separate person for this.

My main issue is that I am not gaining experience in the HR area. I have completed almost 1 year and passed through a long probation period of 8 months. I am very confused about my career.

I am planning to leave my present company because there is no more learning in my job. Should I quit the job because they are also paying me less according to my qualifications? There is a sense of fear in my mind because I don't have experience in PF and E.S.I., and everyone in the HR field wants a person who has full knowledge of statutory compliances. In my present company, the focus and emphasis are mainly on production, not on other welfare and motivational policies like good companies. I have tried, but all in vain.

I request all of you to suggest what to do. Please help me out.

Waiting for a positive reply from all my seniors!!

Regards,

Mohit Gujral

Dear Mohit,

Don't worry. Whatever you are doing is also part of HR because small units don't have separate HR, personnel, and admin.

Thanks,
J S MALIK

Dear Mohit,

Learning statutory compliance is not very difficult. Learn the percentages for ESI and PF and all the forms to be filled for the purpose. You can learn very easily.

Regards,
Chitra

Hi Chitra and Malik!

Thank you for your response. I am trying to learn about compliances, but I am still confused. In my current job, I do not have the right to interfere in others' work. Could you please advise me on quitting a job? Should I stick to the same profile for my career growth or consider changing jobs?

Please help me out.

Mohit,

The first policy in this world for all employees: don't quit your current job before starting to look for a new one. If you already have a job that you desire, then you have the upper hand. So please ensure that you have something secured before making any changes.

Dear Freshers as well as experienced individuals with 2 to 3 years of experience often have the opinion that HR primarily involves recruitment and simply interviewing candidates.

It is important to note that HR-related matters differ from employer to employer based on the size, strength, and nature of the business. For a small organization with 25 to 30 employees, there may not be a need for a dedicated HR Manager. A single person can manage personnel, recruitment, grievances, liaisons, and other administrative tasks, leading to minimal recruitment activities in such cases.

In larger companies with a higher employee count and extensive production activities, there is usually a separate HR department. This department, under the HR Manager's leadership, handles personnel, recruitment, training, and statutory compliances with the support of a team of executives and assistants. Sometimes, the HR Manager may also oversee administrative functions based on the company's size and requirements.

Broadly, HR is divided into two main areas: HRM (Human Resource Management) and HRD (Human Resource Development). HRM focuses on recruitment and other personnel-related tasks, while HRD is concerned with induction, training, and development in HR-related areas.

To stay updated with evolving HR practices, organizations need to adapt to changes. In smaller or medium-sized industries, all these functions might fall under one umbrella, typically the admin department.

It's essential to clarify your career goals and choose a field where you can excel. As an LLB graduate, you have a promising future in sectors with high production and workforce volumes.

Wishing you all the best.

Dear Mohit,

What you are doing right now is nothing but a part of HR. Each and every function and responsibility in your life will enhance your knowledge. Only focusing on compliance is not the key aspect of HR. HR is vast, like an ocean, encompassing numerous functions such as recruitment, training and development, performance management, employee relations, industrial relations, succession planning, and more. So, there is no need to be scared. Concentrate on your current role and try to explore new tasks within your organization. Meanwhile, consider seeking new opportunities that align with the job description you are looking for.

Regards,
Sidharth

Hi Mohit,

No worries, even if you are not directly involved in core HR, you are still performing all HR-related activities. Do not assume that because you have a PG in Business Management, you should not undertake administrative or other related tasks. Instead, view it as a challenge and an opportunity for learning.

If this is your first job, do not discount it as being beneath your qualifications. Handling a legal case is, in fact, a part of HR.

I would advise you to seize this opportunity to learn and grow as much as possible. It is a chance for self-exploration. Also, ensure you secure another job before considering leaving your current one.

With lots of good wishes,

Rajashree

Hi Mohit,

You need to find out what you are interested in, i.e., which system of HRM you are keen on - personnel or developmental work. Accordingly, start applying for jobs. Begin as a recruiter and then understand the nuances of HR. However, do not leave your present job before exploring new opportunities. Consider your options in the ITES, Retail, or IT organizations; they will welcome fresh newcomers with enthusiasm. Good luck. By the way, the present job profile you are in is not bad. Also, have you heard of LPO (LEGAL PROCESS OUTSOURCING)? You can check your luck in these organizations too.