Is a Specialized HR Degree Necessary for HR Management? Plus, Key Traits for HR Analysts

I've been told that you really don't need a degree specializing in HR to get into HRM. Is this really true?

Personal characteristics for an HR Analyst

What kind of personal characteristics or attributes do you need to possess to be an HR Analyst?

I know my questions may sound a little juvenile, but I was hoping some of you HR experts could advise me here. 

Traditionally, this was the belief, and I would like to disagree with that. HR needs specialized skills, knowledge, and abilities. In the last decade, there has been a tremendous change in HR. The function has evolved from pure administrative to strategic. Companies are realizing the potential of "intangible assets" (people) and the dividends they bring. Companies are recognizing the value HR injects and the need to have skilled HR professionals who can attract, manage, retain, and develop talents in organizations.

Regarding personal attributes, I would have to say, the ability to relate to people genuinely and the ability to be objective in decision-making without losing focus on your empathy skills and organizational goals are key. The most important attribute would be knowledge of HR and other organizational functions.

Hope this helps

If what you say is true, tell me, will I get a job in HR after completing my BMS and having no experience for about 2-3 years, and then take a break to pursue my MBA? I am really confused about this. Some friends advise me to take the CAT exam this year, pursue an MBA, and then seek a job. On the other hand, people who are already working suggest that I should gain work experience first and then pursue an MBA. However, some say that I might lose touch with studies. Please guide me on this dilemma.

But still, this article isn't helping; it's confusing me even more. I would love a break from studies. This BMS is really time-consuming and leaves no social life. So, I would prefer a break in which I work and prepare for CAT.

But, but, but... will I get a job after TYBMS in HRM and will I be able to get back to studies?

Sunanya,

I think you should prioritize what you want to do. If you believe you need a couple of years of experience before pursuing your MBA, start your search. If you think you should finish your MBA first, then study for your MBA entrance. If you ask too many people, you will only become more confused. Decide on one path and follow it through to its destination.

Whether you will get a job or not after your TY BMS will depend on your preparation, your KSA (knowledge, skills, and abilities), and your efforts in locating companies.

Best wishes

I think it'll be better to work first and then do your MBA. Well, that's what I'm planning to do.

Well, the thing is I'd like to work for a multinational corporation for about 2 to 2 1/2 years. I'm not too worried about returning to school for my MBA. I just have a personal view that you tend to do better and get more out of your MBA course when you have real-life experience. You will be able to relate and apply more effectively. Plus, having some years in between can help me choose a good school and learn more about the university. If I'm going to spend 30-40K on my post-grad education, I really want to pick a good university. I think well-reputed universities in the US require you to have some experience before joining.

Of course, I'm also worried that with an MBA, I could be "over-qualified," and that could be a problem. So, it's better to gain experience first and then go to business school.

By the way, don't mind me asking, but how do you plan to land up in an MNC and what are you studying currently?