Struggling to Land an HR Job in a Reputed Company? Seeking Advice from Industry Insiders

I am trying for an HR job in a reputed company, but I am not finding the right way to pursue it. Consultancies have also been of no help. Can anybody who is working in a reputed company as an HR suggest the right way for me to secure a good job in a reputable company where HR work is truly valued? I am eagerly awaiting good suggestions that will help me enhance my professional career in the HR field. Thank you.

Navigating Your HR Career Path

Based on your question, I assume you are either a fresher looking for an HR job without an HR degree or you are working in a different domain and now seeking an HR position. For any job, qualifications, experience, and required skill sets are essential. Furthermore, HR is a vast function with different sub-functions. HR jobs vary from generalist roles to specialized leaders in areas such as performance management, training, compensation, and more. Most companies look for an MBA in HR or an equivalent degree for HR positions. Based on your competence and interest, you can choose the right function. If you don't have an MBA in HR, you can still apply for recruiter positions where any bachelor's degree and good communication skills would be beneficial. As a recruiter, you can gain an understanding of the HR function and organizational structures effectively and can transition to different HR functions while upgrading your skills with the required competence.

Self-Evaluation and Job Search Strategy

Please conduct a self-evaluation regarding your education, experience, strengths, and weaknesses, and outline the steps you are taking to secure a job. Focus on improving every aspect of your job search, from proper resume writing and regularly updating your profiles on job portals to extensive searching and interview preparation. Also, consider why you are specifically looking for a position in a reputed company. Could you work in a mid-size company instead? Remember, you may learn more in small and mid-size companies than in reputed ones. There are some disadvantages, such as job security and work culture not meeting industry standards. However, going through these phases can help you evolve.

My best wishes and good luck.

Regards, Thiyagu

Dear Thiyagua, first of all, I want to thank you for giving such valuable suggestions. I would like to inform you that I have completed my MBA with specializations in HR and Finance. Currently, I am working as an HR in a partnership firm, specifically a marine company, where there are only 50 employees across all branches. We receive our salaries in hand without any PF deductions, as there are no PF or ESI deductions in place.

The challenge of gaining HR experience

In my opinion, a reputed company is one that has a substantial number of employees, offering a good opportunity for HR professionals to gain practical experience. Unfortunately, in my current company, the scope for gaining valuable HR experience is limited. I am eager to enhance my practical knowledge but am struggling to find a suitable company to do so.

Job portals and misleading information

These days, job portals often provide misleading information. Some even require a fee of Rs 2000-3000 before scheduling an interview, adding to my confusion about finding genuine job opportunities. Presently, I am working in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, and actively seeking HR positions in Hyderabad.

My HR expertise and aspirations

I am well-versed in HR functions, which encompass activities ranging from recruitment to employee retirement. My passion lies in working as an HR professional and gaining valuable experience in this field. I am open to working in any company where genuine HR work is carried out, regardless of its reputation. It is disheartening to see companies hiring individuals for HR roles but assigning them responsibilities more suited to telecallers. I am in search of authentic HR roles in reputable companies where genuine HR work is valued.

I look forward to receiving your valuable and insightful suggestions.

Best regards, [Your Name]

As the HR function in your company has very little scope, you made the right decision by searching for a job. To gain practical knowledge, one has to get the opportunity to work on different areas of HR aspects with the support of a mentor and guide. Without these, practical knowledge and experience won't grow at all.

The saddest part is that job portal websites contact candidates for paid services in terms of resume writing and job opening recommendations. At times, even if you opt for the paid services, there is no guarantee that you will be referred to appropriate openings from companies. The market works for money; service providers (job, matrimony, etc.) have a database of buyers and sellers, and they make money from both ends. Technology and strategies have evolved a lot, thus these providers are promoting their own products or packages to buyers and sellers instead of promoting the buyer to the seller and vice versa.

Now, the choice is yours. Career is very important in one's life. If you are ready to spend some money, you can do so after careful investigation about the service provided. You can also negotiate. This seems to be a hard recommendation from my end; however, your current employment condition offers almost nothing to learn and grow. Hence, you can consider this as an investment for your career change.

Have you tried social media support (LinkedIn)? Job search can also be extended to Bangalore. I used to Google a lot and find a list of companies, navigate the companies' job portals, submit resumes, and understand the market requirements.

On your end, prepare a lot right from the search, resume, and interview. I hope you will get a positive career change soon. Senior colleagues here, can you offer some advice, please?

Good luck.

Regards, Thiyagu