Navigating the HR Job Market: Should New Graduates Consider Shifting Fields?

Hi All,

Recession is still ongoing, leading to cost-cutting measures and pay reductions. As an MBA HR graduate from the 2007-09 batch, myself and my classmates have had very negative experiences in today's job market. One of the most challenging aspects is the difficulties faced by new HR professionals. It is common to encounter irrelevant job profiles, low salaries, and a lack of acceptance for HR freshers. While the marketing and finance sectors are also facing challenges, there are still options for survival. However, the HR field is often perceived as cost-centric rather than revenue-generating, resulting in fewer job opportunities.

The real question arises for passionate HR students aspiring for a career in core HR – should they consider shifting to other fields or accept offers for back-end operations roles that are increasingly common but unrelated to HR? This is a pressing question for all esteemed HR experts, seeking suggestions on how new HR professionals can navigate this challenging situation.

Thanks in Advance,

Vishal Dogra

Hi Vishal,

This is the situation with all the streams, not only HR. Recession is global. Once the situation starts recovering, automatically HR will also regain its importance. Gain more knowledge, get some practical experience by joining any HR job you can find at this moment, and wait for better times.

All the best.

Regards,
Rajeev Dixit

Hi Rajeev Sir,

Thank you for your wishes and suggestions, although the problem of unavailable relevant HR profiles still persists. Nowadays, vast experience is expected even for recruitment profiles, while most fresh HR professionals are applying for these jobs. The most painful fact is that due to the pressure of time constraints, some of my bright HR batchmates are joining organizations as fresher marketing executives, as these roles are perceived to be easier to secure compared to HR positions. However, this experience cannot be utilized in the future for any HR position openings.

As you rightly pointed out, waiting for a better time is essential.

Thanks,
Vishal Dogra

Hi Vishal,

Don't worry, the situation will change soon. In the meantime, prepare yourself with the updated HR tech and seize the opportunity. All the best.

Friendly,
Vignesh

Hi Vishal,

Don't worry much. Enroll yourself in some learning and knowledge-gaining activities related to your stream.

All the best,

Hi Vignesh & Chandrakanth Sir,

Thank you for your wishes. As you both mentioned, it is imperative to be up to date with knowledge related to our field. I am now more patient to consider relevant job openings and to continue enhancing my knowledge. Thank you both for such encouragement. I am always in need of guidance.

Regards,
Vishal Dogra

Do not worry, this phase will not remain for a longer time. The market will revive soon.

Many people, whether fresher or experienced, are sailing in the same boat. Utilize this time to explore books, articles, and talk to your seniors to gain experience from the real-life situations they have faced. Pursue your interests and hobbies.

Good luck!

Hi Vishal,

I'll be graduating this year. My seniors are currently in the same situation as me. It's a tough time... As Priyanka mentioned, the market will soon recover. Let's stay hopeful and keep pushing forward. All the best.

Regards,
Anu :)

Hi Priyanka and Anu,

Thank you very much for your kind encouragement and support. Just because of your replies and predictions of revival from this bad time, my friends and I are now sticking to our passion "HR." Though it's really hard to hope for good offers in current market conditions, we need to be optimistic about future prospects. Still hoping for something related to the same stream. As rightly said by Anu, keep on trying; it's worth it. Thanks once again for provoking such knowledgeable thoughts. And Anu, I wish you all the very best too whenever you'll be graduating.

Warm Regards,
Vishal Dogra

Hi Vishal,

I would like you to suggest something. Select a few companies from the industry you would like to work in. Approach the HR Managers to do some HR projects. Beforehand, select a few good topics and be ready with the synopsis. The role of HR in a recession, cost-cutting without layoffs, etc., is a hot topic for HR professionals. This will not only keep you on track but also provide you with some much-needed HR experience.

All the best.

Hi Jhuma,

This is a really good option to do qualitative work within the purview of the HR domain. Though if I opt for any project, stipend is expected rather than salary, which is quite acceptable instead of working in an irrelevant profile. I've done a project on attrition management during my MBA, which can help me while convincing for the same.

Thanks a ton for this valuable suggestion.

Warm Regards,
Vishal Dogra

Hi All,

Can anyone please inform me about HR openings in and around Bangalore? My friends and I would be very thankful to you.

Warm Regards,
Vishal Dogra