Transitioning from Factory HR to IT HR: Will This Move Boost or Hinder My Career?

Dear Seniors, Good morning, I have completed an MBA (HR) and have been working as an HR Generalist in a factory for about 6 years. I would like to transition my career into the IT sector. Will this change negatively impact my career in HR, or will it enhance my prospects? Is it the right decision to shift to IT, or should I continue in the manufacturing sector? Seniors, your advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

HR is HR wherever you work. Every organization has the same HR processes and procedures, i.e., training, pay, leave, welfare, etc. All that changes is you work with a different set of people with different skill sets. Factory workers may have some differing aspects from office-bound workers, e.g., government acts that dictate working conditions, etc.; that's about all.

Dear Punith Kumar,

It is not a question of sector alone. Whether in manufacturing, IT, or any other sector, you should experience intellectual and financial growth. As long as you feel that you are progressing in both areas, there is no need to change industries. Even if you sense a lack of growth intellectually or financially, you may explore opportunities within the same sector. This is because advancing within the same industry segment can be advantageous. In contrast, switching sectors requires learning the dynamics of that particular industry segment, which may not be easy for everyone.

You might feel that the IT sector offers better pay, prompting you to consider a change. However, I know several HR professionals who find themselves stuck in a rut. While they may have seen financial growth, they are not experiencing intellectual growth. Despite this, they persist due to financial commitments such as housing or other EMIs.

There is no definitive answer to your question. It is a gamble. Switching sectors could result in better, reasonable, or negative returns. Ultimately, the decision will be yours to make.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar