Transitioning from IT to HR: Is My Tech Background Holding Me Back from Job Offers?

Hi all,

I have 4 years of IT experience in Dotnet, but I realized that I am more interested in dealing with people than coding. So, I pursued my full-time Masters in Human Resource Management. I started looking for internships or entry-level jobs but have not been receiving any offers. Is my IT background a hurdle? I really need tips to advance my career in HR.

Transitioning from IT to HR

As you are looking to change your career from IT to HR due to various constraints, you might find it difficult to transition to a different field. Given your extensive experience in IT, companies may consider the salary expectations you have. With your level of experience, it may be challenging to start at an entry-level position in HR, but there are still opportunities for you to explore in the HR field.

In addition to your academic skills, you may need to further develop your practical HR skills, such as people management, training and development, and technical recruitment. By enhancing these skills, you may find the right opportunities in tech recruitment and talent management.

Regards

Opportunities in IT Recruitment

Chances of getting a job in any consultancy as an IT recruiter are higher considering your experience. Try out there; you'll definitely get selected. Other than that, focus on:

1. Oral and written communication
2. Knowledge of portals
3. Recruiting methods
4. Attitude

I suggest that you don't feel that your experience is a hurdle for you to get a job in HR. In fact, it's an advantage for you as you can screen CVs better and conduct technical interviews as well. Start with a consultancy first, and then it will be easier for you to transition to a corporate role.

Wishing you all the best!

Hi Shravani,

I am looking for someone with the flair for IT to perform an HR Recruitment role. Please let us know if you're interested.

Thanks,
Dayalan.

@Praveen and @Murali, thank you for the offer. However, the problem is that I reside in Dubai and am looking for opportunities here. If you have any contacts in Dubai, kindly let me know. It would be of great help.

Hi guys,

Considering my previous experience in IT, I realized that I would be more suitable for an IT recruiter position. Can you please tell me what package I can expect in a place like Hyderabad (I am planning to shift to Hyd)?

Thanks & Regards,
Shravani

It is great that you like to interact with people and want to engage in HR activities. However, since you have 4 years of experience as a programmer, you stand a good chance to become a Team Leader in 1 or 2 years. Thereafter, in the next 5 years, you could be a Project Manager. This position will help you in major HR activities such as recruitment, performance management, induction, grievance handling, and retention. Additionally, as a Project Manager, you will have the liberty to set budgets and manage projects, handle manpower planning, and oversee the succession planning of juniors.

So, overall, by staying in the same field, you will be able to fulfill your desire for Human Resource Management. Your study in HRM will give you an edge over other competitors eyeing the Project Manager position. Think over it again before you make a decision on switching job profiles.

Best Regards,
Sameer