Feeling Overwhelmed in HR: Should I Switch to an Administrative Role at a College?

Dear Senior, I am working as an HR Associate in a reputable company for the last 6 months. In the first month, data entry work was assigned to me under the guise of preparing MIS. Following that, one of our Senior HR Executives resigned, leading to a 70% increase in workload for me. I managed this additional responsibility for 2 months until a new person was hired for the vacant position.

Currently, I am being tasked with scanning numerous documents, a departure from my expected role of handling MIS. I feel as though I am solely responsible for clearing backlogs without receiving the respect or recognition I deserve.

I have been offered a position as an Administrative Officer at a college. Should I consider making the switch?

Thank you.

When you don't mention your educational degree and previous experience, or if you are a fresher, you are assigned to a job based on your skills in computer literacy, especially in Advanced Excel or other advanced software skills used to prepare MIS reports. You have illustrated your increasing job responsibilities. The role of HR is hectic; one should be able to handle all activities related to human resources involved in all areas of a firm. A strong HR professional grows in a rigid environment, taking up all challenges. HR involves Personnel aspects, Welfare aspects, IR aspects, and HRD.

This is a large circle encompassing different roles and responsibilities. If you choose a career in HR, be sure of your likely role in any of them, and know your beginning and ultimate goals in seeking a career in HR. One thing is certain, whether man or woman, in the eyes of the boss, we will face equal humiliation or abuse.

"Practice continuously; no matter how heavy you may feel, your determination should increase."

A year of experience is okay to try for in the same field. Start searching and believe that women are more preferable in HR and likely in corporates.

Switching jobs often is proven to be dangerous, so be sure of it. Whatever career you choose, try to be innovative; you will find happiness, and learning is a continuous process. Upgrade your qualifications and skills to reach new dimensions and achievements in your career.

Be patient and take a chance to change within a similar field since you are dealing with the best tools (MIS) of HRM.

Good luck.

Regards,
Kalyan

You are just 6 months old in the company. It is not advisable to switch over. Even though you do all the backend work like scanning, data entry, etc., you have a lot of time to learn a lot. Understand the basics of statutory compliance, MIS, manpower budget, recruitment, etc. Learn every day so that within a year, you will be thorough with the HRM of your organization.

In the future, if they are willing to promote you as a Sr. HR, you can take it, or else you can attend the interview elsewhere.

You have managed different tasks within the scope of your role in less than six months. You further delivered on a role that was beyond your level. Congratulations, you have almost achieved learning of two roles right in one, that too in such a short duration.

I echo Kalyan and request you to share your educational background. Please share the job description of the new role. 'Administrative officer' is a broad term. How big is the institution, and what about your growth there? You have worked less than a year in your first job, so you would need to build stability in your next role. Please weigh not just the pros but the cons. Suppose you run into a similar situation in your new job where you will not be given due recognition for your contributions, how will you still keep yourself motivated? How is the new role an add-on, even if there is not a great difference in the salary or job location?

I am not asking you to reject the new role, but consider it for the right reasons. Please make sure, once you make your choice, you should be able to stick around for the next few years. Wish you all the best!

Regards,