HR Experience Not Enough (Kindly Advise)

Dear All,

I want to work in a reputed company as an HR Manager, but I lack experience in the following areas:

1. No practical experience in SAP or any payroll-related software.
2. Some companies insist that a person should be well-versed in MS Excel, but I only have basic knowledge and am not an expert in Excel.
3. Hands-on experience in Statutory Compliance. During my MBA, I studied it, but later I lost touch as I never had the opportunity to handle statutory compliance. Many companies require HR Officers for Manufacturing Companies with experience in statutory compliance. If I have never handled it, how can I gain experience?
4. Other HR-related activities such as Employee Insurance, Employee Engagement Activities, and Industrial Relations.
5. No experience in handling more than 100, 200, or 300 employees.

I believe that gaining this experience will boost my confidence, and over time, I can progress to become an HR Manager. However, I am unsure about how to start and gain this experience.

Should I join institutes offering practical HR courses? Is it necessary, helpful, or just a waste of money?

I am also considering joining a reputed company in Mumbai. I completed my MBA in HR from Tilak Maharashtra University, Pune, but it is not widely recognized. Many companies in Mumbai are unfamiliar with the institute, and in every interview, they inquire, "Is your MBA full-time or part-time?"

Top B-School graduates have an advantage over me as recruiters prefer them. Individuals like me often end up working in lower-level companies where we lack sufficient HR experience.

I seek your advice and valuable suggestions.

Hi Mandy,

Oops, a long list of wishful thoughts. My sincere suggestion: please don't mind. Start as an Executive in HR and work your way up the ladder.

Yes, if you are a fresher or have 1-2 years of experience, writing a good CV will help.

Regards,
Ukmitra

Hi Mandy,
“Journeys of a thousand miles begin with a single step.” As rightly said by Ukmitra, pls join some HR job and learn all the aspects of HR. Be positive and best of luck.

Dear Mandy,

Congratulations on having an in-depth understanding of where you are and what you lack. You have even charted a way for yourself. All you need to do now is to visualize yourself reaching there.

I am sure you formed your idea from the numerous interviews you attended. You haven't shared what you have been doing professionally so far. How about turning the tables? There are innumerable people who might be building a career right with the skills you possess. What helped them secure their current positions?

Obtaining a certification is a brilliant idea, but choose it wisely. Large Indian firms value a strong brand, as you have already noticed. A certification from a top college might take some time, but it is an investment for life.

Another way to enhance your knowledge is to target every area you wish to learn and start gathering information about it. Formulate your understanding from discussions with experts. This approach will make you functionally proficient in that specific area.

I echo U.K. Mitra and White Eagle's advice that you can explore entry-level roles as they may be easier to find, therefore keeping your risks low.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Hi (Cite Contribution) Mam,

I have always found your words inspiring. As you mentioned the importance of gaining knowledge from various sources, I would like to share my experience. Before joining CiteHR six months ago, I had very little knowledge about PF & ESI-related matters. However, since then, I have acquired a wealth of information. My colleagues now seek advice from me on these topics. All the information and knowledge I have gained about PF & ESI are from my exploration on CiteHR. I do not claim to be an expert, but I have sufficient knowledge to assist my colleagues and handle our contractors effectively.

To Mandy: I may not be the best person to advise you, but I would like to share from my professional experience that "Getting a Chance" is something associated with learners in school or college. In professional life, you encounter "Opportunities." It is essential to seize these opportunities and learn voraciously.

Wishing You Good Luck.

Hi Mandy,

Just a quick note: Start with A B C. By the time you learn C to W, you will feel yourself completed with X Y Z.

Cheers!

Thank you to everyone for your valuable feedback. I am currently working as a Senior HR Executive in a small firm, but I aspire to work for a reputable company where I can gain exposure to all aspects of HR and have opportunities for growth (I aim to become an HR Manager in the future).

Today, I received a call from SARK Solutions Ltd. They offer practical courses in the HR field. The course is delivered by HR professionals with over 10 years of industry experience. Upon enrolling in the course, they provide placement assistance and a complimentary resume writing service. Classes take place on weekends, specifically on Sundays. The course lasts for 3 months, and the fee is Rs 12,500.

After reviewing testimonials from past students, many have benefitted from the course as it effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The primary objective is to produce HR professionals who are highly productive from day one since companies seek well-trained HR professionals.

I have thoroughly analyzed myself and found that once I gain practical experience combined with knowledge (HR concepts which I can always brush up on every day), I will develop the required confidence to handle all HR-related issues, which will ultimately transform my personality. I notice that my body language appears strong when I sound confident.

Hey Mandy,

I am happy to see the positive attitude in your words.

Wishing you lots and lots of good luck.