How Can I Transition to Core HR Roles and Stand Out to Employers?

Dear All,

I have been working in the power sector as an HR Officer for the past five years, gaining experience in managing contractors, workmen, and all related laws. I was stationed at the site office, overseeing approximately 20 employees. However, other major HR functions such as Recruitment & Selection (R&S) and Payroll were managed by the corporate office.

I am now eager to transition to core HR activities. I have explored job portals and observed that corporations, MNCs, and consultancies seek HR executives with experience in talent acquisition, payroll, R&S, operations management, etc. Unfortunately, I find myself unable to apply for many of these opportunities.

How can I pivot my career towards these roles and impress companies to hire me?

Regards, A.K. Srivastava
**Location**: Kolkata, India

To pivot your career towards core HR functions and enhance your chances of being hired for roles involving talent acquisition, payroll, Recruitment & Selection (R&S), and operations management, consider the following practical steps:

Assess Your Current Skills and Identify Gaps
🔍 Evaluate your existing HR skills and competencies, noting areas where you may need further development to align with core HR functions.

Acquire Relevant Knowledge and Training
📚 Consider enrolling in courses or certifications related to talent acquisition, payroll management, and Recruitment & Selection to enhance your expertise in these areas.

Gain Hands-on Experience
👐 Seek opportunities within your current role or through volunteering to get practical experience in Recruitment & Selection, payroll processing, and other core HR functions.

Network and Seek Mentorship
🤝 Connect with HR professionals specializing in core HR functions for guidance, mentorship, and potential job referrals in the desired areas.

Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
📝 Highlight any relevant projects, training, or experience related to talent acquisition, payroll, and Recruitment & Selection on your resume and professional profiles.

Apply for Transitional Roles
📋 Look for transitional roles that involve a mix of your current responsibilities and core HR functions to gradually transition into your desired career path.

Prepare for Interviews
🎙️ Be ready to discuss how your past experiences in managing contractors and workmen can be applied to excel in talent acquisition, payroll, and Recruitment & Selection roles during interviews.

By proactively developing your skills, gaining relevant experience, and networking within the HR community, you can successfully pivot your career towards core HR functions and attract potential employers seeking professionals with a diverse HR skill set.