Hello,
You have posed an interesting question!
Like some one said, competency is gender neutral and I agree totally with that.
Since you have been working in a generalist role, I presume that you have a fair idea of what the function is composed of.
My question is what aspect of the function attracts, challenges and promises you satisfaction? Pursue that choice.
Having said that I need to explain a bit.
1) In our country IR is largely confined to the manufacturing sector and lacks somewhat the glamour quotient.
2) White collared unionism still remote but not too remote.
3) Compliance needs one to deal with (most of the times) corrupt officials of various enforcement agencies under various applicable laws and the managements may NOT always be patient either to stand up for the "right" or to "buy" peace either with employees (represented whether by internal or by an external trade union) or the government officials.
4) Are communication skills, determination, management of human behaviour-individual and the collective, a never say die spirit a part of your personality? Can you withstand isolation against a tide of populist approaches (where "the ends will justify the means" philosophy is in evidence). It may even succeed albeit in the short term and certainly NOT in the long term.
5) Are you flexible and receptive, yet firm in your convictions?
6) Do you keep up with new "learning" and "upgrading" yourself all the time?
There would be many more questions that you will have find answers to through hard and objective INTROSPECTION.
IR being a power oriented function (or so do many people feel), it is easy to get "infatuated" with it. If you choose to make a career in IR, it cannot be light-hearted decision.
Presently I suggest that you deliberate with what is said in this post and should desire or be tempted to take the dialogue further, you are welcome interact further in a sharp focus but for the time being, let us deal with this first step and then decide whether to proceed further or not.
I am willing to help all the way. You may rest assured of that!
Regards
samvedan
September 11, 2013
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