Torn Between HR and Finance for My MBA: Seeking Advice on Career Prospects and Choices

Hi All,

I am working in a UK-based BPO as an HR Executive. I have completed my M.Com as a regular student and have just started my MBA from SCDL in HR specialization. Today is the last day for me to change my specialization, and I am really confused between HR and Finance specializations. I have an interest in the HR side but want to keep my options open in the Finance sector as well. I am doubtful about HR prospects in the US or any other country as an Indian. I doubt my ability to manage people in the US or UK, and companies might be hesitant to recruit Indians to understand and manage them. Therefore, I am considering keeping Finance as an option even though I am interested in HR.

Can anybody suggest what the prospects are in HR, or should I consider changing to Finance?

Additionally, can anyone suggest if pursuing an MBA in Finance and also obtaining a Diploma in HR would allow me to secure HR jobs if I am not very successful in Finance?

Please help as today is the last date for submission.

Hi Nisha,

It depends on you. Before making a decision, implement SWOT analysis on yourself. Take a moment to think calmly and identify your strengths and weaknesses. Once you have done that, you can make the right decision. Whatever you choose, strive for perfection in that area. Considering your current strengths, choose your career path wisely. As far as HR is concerned, it has a bright future. Ponder deeply.

May God help you.

Basant

Hi Nisha,

I have hands-on experience in both Finance & HR, so I know a little about both. I agree with your own suggestion that you should specialize in finance here and then in the US. If you want, you can do a course in HR there. Alternatively, if you prefer to continue in Finance, you will have to take a refresher course there to acquire US-specific knowledge about finance, accounts, and taxes.

Cheers,
Dhananjay

Hi Nisha,

As others have told you, it's up to you to decide on your career options. You should correlate your academic qualifications with your profession. Sit down and list out your strengths and weaknesses in HR, as well as in finance.

As an HR professional, I would suggest that you pursue a career in HR, which is currently booming in all sectors and is expected to continue growing. Manpower is crucial, and without it, nothing can progress. The HR department plays a vital role in this aspect.

Finance, on the other hand, is more traditional in nature (to the best of my knowledge). In finance, you are bound by set rules such as the debit and credit formula, which must be followed consistently. In contrast, HR allows for more creativity and flexibility as human dynamics vary. You have the freedom to innovate, create, and gain diverse experiences in HR.

Finance is seen as traditional, while HR is viewed as functional. In finance, career growth may be limited due to a stricter hierarchy (e.g., junior, senior, assistant manager-finance, manager finance, general manager, director). In HR, there are various career paths available, such as welfare officer, HR officer, personnel officer, HR generalist, and IR manager, providing ample opportunities for growth and advancement.

I hope I have not confused you. In any case, I wish you good luck in your decision-making process.

Regards,
R Devarajan

We often come across words/phrases such as "passion for the profession" and "interest" when getting advice from professionals.

I have been in your shoes and I have learned one important thing - no matter what you decide to specialize in, remember you are always a "manager" and will have to think big. You will eventually want to be a "leader" in a thought pattern that serves a company to achieve its objectives. Therefore, please learn to begin with the end in mind. There is no guarantee that you will do a job in the area of specialization forever. Professions are dynamic in this world. They require multiple skills. Hence, try to move into a zone where you can add value as a thought leader.

If any area stimulates you and excites you for now, then do it after you understand that this also is only a part of the career that you may adopt. Be open to that change process, and you will do well for yourself.

SK

Hi Nisha, Basant, and all CiteHR fraternity,

I am conducting research, i.e., a Ph.D. study on HRM issues in the ITES-BPO industry. I would like to request individuals associated with this industry to answer a questionnaire regarding the practices. Confidentiality is guaranteed, and the information will be used solely for academic purposes.

Please let me know if you are willing to assist.

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Regal

Hello everybody,

I have completed my M.Com and am currently working as an HR executive for the past 6 months. I am still debating whether to pursue an MBA in Finance or HR. Please suggest me which path to take. Thank you.