Navigating a Career Shift to HR Research, OD, or Training: Seeking Your Advice on Overcoming Challenges

Hi, I am Pranati. I have completed my BE in IT and am currently pursuing PGCHRM from XLRI. My main work experience (2 yrs) consists of admin, HRIS, and recruitment. However, I want to transition into the fields of HR research, OD, or training. Could you please advise me on how to make this career move?

Additionally, I faced a significant issue as I had a 2-year gap after 12th grade. I took a year off and then enrolled in B.I.T at DU in the College of Business Studies. However, during that time, there was a disagreement between AICTE and DU, so I ended up pursuing BE(IT). The companies I have worked for include HCL Infosystems and Paramount Comm.

I would greatly appreciate your guidance on my career path.

Thank you,
Pranati

Pranati,

Here are some useful thoughts.

Career Change

Based on your brief,

The gap of 2 years should not be a big worry. You can always explain and play it down. Definitely, some interviewers would ask about it, more out of curiosity than anything else. You must be prepared to answer it and not avoid it.

Based on your technical qualifications and experience, your competences could be outlined as:

Technical Knowledge
- Computer literacy
- Familiarity with software
- Knowledge of hardware/software
- Knowledge of systems in general
- Quantitative reasoning
- Attention to details

Solution Orientation
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
- Flexibility
- Making judgments
- Making decisions
- Critical/analytical thinking

Communication Skills
- Oral communication
- Written communication

Personal Abilities
- Endurance
- Initiative
- Self-reliance
- Continuous learning
- Training/coaching
- Achievement motivation

It is possible some of these competences are more matured than others. Your commercial experience in total is just over 2 years covering HRIS, recruitment, administration, etc. You still have to complete PGCHRM.

With this background, you want to move into Research HRM. You can cover a number of areas, as listed below/more. But this is subject to your aptitude, your passion, available opportunities, etc.

Also, you should remember that nobody in their right mind wants to do just research - they also want to implement the research findings. Hence, you must also develop the skills to plan the solution to the findings and to implement the planning. So, the real scope lies in researching/implementation planning.

Vision & HR Strategy Development
- HR strategic planning
- HR planning
- Manpower planning
- HR auditing
- Change management
- Executive and leadership development
- Organization culture assessment & development
- Innovation and creativity practices
- HRIS
- Communication, influence, and conflict resolution skills
- Employee development & coaching
- Performance management
- Career planning/management
- Process management/improvement
- Development of self-directed/shared leadership teams
- Meeting effectiveness & group facilitation
- Goal setting
- Team building/development
- Organization restructuring
- Group problem-solving
- Etc.

In career planning, you have to place your position/role not just as a researcher of HR, but what HR can do for the organization, a solution provider in collaborative development of:
- Organization direction
- Organization culture
- Organization development
- Continuous improvement
- Etc.

And help the organization to meet the changing needs of the business (example could be cost-effectiveness). The kind of career you are seeking is limited in numbers. Put some more experience into the current job/complete the course and try to do/learn more in your current job [beyond the call of duty]. It will pay off in the future.

Then you should seek a position with organizations like:
- Centre of OD Development (Hyderabad)
- TIFR (Mumbai)
- Pricewaterhouse
- Any major consulting house
- Large organizations like HLL, ITC, etc.

A few years with them, then you can start your own consultancy/write your own cheque.

Hope this is useful to you.

Regards,

Leo Lingham

I just wanted you to know that your feedback was very useful. Right now, I'm working as a project associate at IIMA while completing my course. Just felt like thanking you.

Regards,
Pranati

Career Transition Advice for Pranati:

- Leverage Your Current Experience:
🔹 Your experience in admin, HRIS, and recruitment provides a solid foundation for transitioning into HR research, OD, or training. Highlight transferable skills like data analysis, project management, and communication.

- Skill Development:
🔹 Consider upskilling in areas specific to HR research, OD, or training. Look for certification programs or short courses that focus on these fields to boost your knowledge and credibility.

- Networking:
🔹 Attend HR conferences, seminars, and workshops to network with professionals in the desired fields. Building connections can open up opportunities for mentorship or job referrals.

- Gain Practical Experience:
🔹 Seek out internships or part-time roles in organizations that specialize in HR research, OD, or training. Practical experience will complement your academic background.

- Tailored Resume and Cover Letter:
🔹 Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your passion for HR research, OD, or training. Showcase relevant projects or coursework that demonstrate your interest and capabilities.

- Seek Mentorship:
🔹 Find a mentor who is experienced in HR research, OD, or training. A mentor can provide guidance, advice, and insights into the industry, helping you navigate your career transition more effectively.

- Stay Updated:
🔹 Keep yourself informed about the latest trends, tools, and best practices in HR research, OD, and training. Subscribe to industry publications, follow thought leaders on social media, and engage in continuous learning.

Addressing the Career Gap:

- Explain the Gap Positively:
🔹 During interviews or networking conversations, address the 2-year gap after 12th grade by emphasizing how it allowed you to make informed decisions about your education and career path.

- Showcase Growth and Learning:
🔹 Highlight how the gap year and subsequent academic choices contributed to your personal and professional growth. Emphasize any skills or qualities you developed during that period.

- Connect the Dots:
🔹 Connect the dots between your past experiences, education, and career aspirations. Illustrate a clear narrative that demonstrates your journey towards specializing in HR research, OD, or training.

- Confidence and Positivity:
🔹 Approach discussions about the career gap with confidence and positivity. Showcasing self-awareness and a growth mindset can mitigate any concerns employers may have.

- Focus on the Future:
🔹 Shift the focus from the past gap to your future ambitions and how you are actively working towards them. Express enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead and your commitment to excelling in the new field.