Struggling to Transition into HR in Manufacturing: Will My 14 Years of Experience Ever Count?

Hi All, I have 14 years of experience in the HR field in a non-manufacturing plant, holding a managerial rank. I have never had the opportunity to work in a manufacturing industry, which I am very interested in. Despite my awareness of all industrial laws associated with factory/manufacturing units, my resume gets rejected whenever I apply to a manufacturing unit. I have visited and contacted my placement agencies and consultants, but none have been able to provide proper guidance.

Will I ever get an opportunity?

If yes, how? If no, why? Please guide.

Regards, Atanu Saha

Dear Atanu Saha, Don't get dejected over your refusal for now. Keep trying with a motivated spirit is all I can advise. Having knowledge of industrial laws itself might not place you in the front seat. You should demonstrate your ability to perform during the interview. Maybe initially, you can try small business entrepreneurs or start-up units which might definitely offer you a job. Later, you can move on to bigger units. All the best.

Why Your Applications to Plant HR Posts Are Getting Rejected

Do you know why your applications to any Plant HR post are getting rejected? In factories, mines, plantations, etc., the HR Manager is still considered the Personnel Manager or Industrial Relations Manager. If you approach a manufacturing concern with a CV highlighting strong exposure to recruitment, training and development, performance appraisal, employee engagement techniques, and unique employee motivation theories, you may not be considered. Your CV might be rated around 25 out of 100. However, if you demonstrate experience in legal compliance, appearing before labor officers, officers of PF and ESI, handling three or four strikes (whether settled bilaterally, through conciliation, or referred for adjudication), conducting domestic inquiries, and carrying out LTS (Long Term Settlement) with unions—especially with multiple trade unions—your CV will certainly be shortlisted. Why? Because these activities will score you 80 out of 100! This is the core of HR in a manufacturing concern. Training and development or motivational classes cannot bring real productivity among the working class. For others, it is merely a session to relax from the tensions of the factory!

Advice for Aspiring Manufacturing HR Professionals

I have advice as well. Why should you consider a career in a manufacturing concern? What is the big attraction there? Engaging with workers, having heated exchanges with union office bearers, and issuing show cause notices for even minor issues...

If one has to work in a manufacturing unit as an HR, the employee relations aspect of the job is prominent. If you lack exposure or experience in this area, knowledge of labor laws is supportive for this role but not all-encompassing. Your CV should demonstrate promise and confidence, showing that you have the potential to work in that role if given an opportunity. Keep trying by restructuring your CV to highlight your ability and eagerness to work in an employee relations role. I am sure you will achieve your dream job one day.

Regards,
Vinayak Nagarkar
HR Consultant