Torn Between HR and Operations: How Do I Choose the Right Career Path?

Hello Senior Members,

I have been working in a BPO for the past seven years and currently hold the position of lead operation, managing a small team. I completed my MBA in 2012 with the sole aim of pursuing a career in HR. I have dedicated myself to continuous learning in the HR field and am currently undertaking a SAP course to further enhance my skills.

Despite my efforts, I have faced challenges in transitioning to HR roles. Feedback I receive often acknowledges my knowledge and suitability for HR positions, yet I am consistently advised that HR may not be the right fit for me. On the other hand, when I explore opportunities in operations, I am met with similar responses, indicating that my strengths lie in HR.

I find myself in a state of confusion and dilemma. I am unsure about the right path to take. Should I continue pursuing HR roles or focus on excelling in operations as suggested by others?

I would greatly appreciate any suggestions or advice you could provide.

Thank you.

One good thing you have done so far is sticking to the BPO (Operations) job. Please continue until you get a break as per your liking in HR. It is understandable that people ask why you want to change over to HR from Operations as you have been in Operations all along. Here is the challenge that you should face. Since the question has been asked many times, you should prepare yourself very well to answer this in the future. For example, you can explain how you have helped HR with your operational expertise in tackling HR issues in the past. There can be one case or many. However, what is baffling is why someone from Operations should ask you to switch to HR. Are you neglecting Operations? This raises another question - HOW GOOD ARE YOU IN OPERATIONS? If there is scope, make sure you reach excellence levels in Operations and still keep trying for an HR role.

Regards,
V. Raghunathan

Thank you, sir, for your valuable feedback. As you asked, are you neglecting Operations? My answer is, of course, not at all. I have been at an excellence level, and I rate myself as an 8 out of 10. However, the question always arises since I have an MBA in HR, am pursuing SAP, and have completed various workshops in the HR field. I have an answer for them, but they always try to give me personal advice. Once I went for an interview in operations and was advised to take ITIL and PMP courses.

Request for Advice

Sir, I would like to request some advice related to the questions and answers I should prepare for both fields.

Regards,
Param