Feeling Stuck in HR During a Recession: Should I Wait or Look for New Opportunities?

Hi Aarchi,

I am Aarchi, working as an HR executive in a real estate company. Unfortunately, there is no growth at all. I have a Bachelor of Technology degree, but due to personal reasons, I had to join this company in HR. I do not want to gain experience in real estate as it adds a negative point to my CV. Given the current recession, people are hesitant to leave their jobs. What should I do? Should I wait it out or switch to a different job?

I am totally confused. Please help me.

Thanks,
Aarchi

Hi Aarchi,

First, tell me, after completing your B.Tech, how did you transition into the HR field? My suggestion is to first acquire knowledge in the HR domain before considering a switch to another job. It is more important to assess the depth of your knowledge in the relevant field rather than focusing solely on the type of industry.

Regards,
Rajeev Dixit

Hi Aarchi....

Firstly, you decided that you like HR. If you like it, then it's good that you are in HR. I would suggest you be in HR for some time. There are some points to think about regarding your present job:

1) The platform (Company's Brand Name): If it is known in the Indian corporate world, then there is no harm in staying here for some time.

2) If the company is good in engineering recruitments, it depends on your company's profile and the kind of HR activities you are handling. This experience might seem a bit focused for future growth, but you can continue.

3) The technical aspect in HR - many MNCs like SHELL, BECHTEL, and DOSSAN ENGG are interested in hiring tech-savvy HR professionals.

4) You can consider joining a Distance Learning MBA in Human Resources Administration or a Master's in Psychology.

If you don't want to continue in HR, then consider making a quick change to an average engineering company with a technical profile.

Hello everyone,

Guys, I have a question for all of you. In an interview, I was asked about the games used in training programs to train people. I knew some but they were not good enough. Can you tell me the names of some popular games and how they are played?

Thanks,
Amrender

Dear Archi,

I just want to suggest that you consider pursuing higher education. However, for that, you need to prepare diligently. Since you have a B.Tech background, you can easily opt for the GMAT exam. In this period of recession, as jobs are becoming more insecure and irregular, many individuals are choosing to pursue higher studies. Additionally, the number of seats available for student intake has been increased in various institutes.

Wishing you all the best.

Regards,
Sayoni

The days of specialization are over - it's the time for being a 'consultant.' Hence, don't look to please anyone by stating that you are a B Tech and are now in HR. It's important to realize that everyone migrates into careers. I know of doctors who have now become great HR professionals. So let's understand that the world is full of opportunities for those who have open minds.

Having a specialization in HR is a good thing to have - no doubts. But that does not ensure a great HR professional. Primarily, one must love to study human behavior, love to help people unconditionally without any bias, must be able to have a great business vision (this can be difficult for anyone irrespective of degree or exposure)....which is why we are all talking about strategic HR.

Don't believe too much in people....trust your conscience about your capabilities. People have their own weak areas; they might be able to cover it up for some time.

Switching jobs is a function of the situation you find yourself in.....

SK

At the present time, it's not a good time to switch to another place. They may offer a lower salary compared to the previous one. So, if you want to learn something, you can invest your time in that for better options. Think and make a decision; don't be confused. Take care. Bye. All the best.

Dear Aarchi,

I can understand your confusion, but don't let it worry you out of your mind. I am also an electrical engineer but now consult in various management issues including HR. HR is an interesting and challenging field, and I would advise that you take some interest by personal reading, browsing the net (there is so much to learn).

I would also strongly advise you to try completing at least a diploma in HRM (part-time courses are available from some good institutes like WELINGKAR). This will enhance your market value. Meanwhile, gather as much experience as possible from your present job.

BEST WISHES,
D.J. THAKUR

Dear Aarchi,

I can understand your confusion, but don't let it worry you out of your mind. I am also an electrical engineer but now consult on various management issues, including HR. HR is an interesting and challenging field, and I would advise that you take some interest by personal reading and browsing the net (there is so much to learn).

I would also strongly advise you to try completing at least a diploma in HRM (part-time courses are available from some good institutes like WELINGKAR). This will enhance your market value. Meanwhile, gather as much experience as possible from your current job.

Best wishes,

D.J. Thakur

It's an irony... I did my MBA in HR to get a job in the HR field, but I could not. Anyways, if your interest lies in HR, just stick to it - it's a good career option. And if someone can help me out to get an HR job, kindly update me with current openings. Thanks.

Hi! Can anyone suggest what I should do at this time? I am a bit confused. Currently, I have been working in the DST of ICICI Bank for the last 3 years and 7 months. Until September 2008, I was receiving a salary of Rs. 9500. However, due to the recession, I am currently receiving Rs. 6500, which is making it difficult for me to manage my household expenses.

I am very confused about what to do next. I want to switch my job, but I am unable to find opportunities in operations that offer the same salary. I have received offers from other companies around Rs. 7 to 7.5 lakhs. Is it okay for me to switch jobs at this time?