Whether they’re negotiating a
contract with union leaders,
or interviewing a hopeful job applicant,
Human Resources Managers combine
the qualities of leadership and initiative with
steadiness and perseverance.
It’s not a job for the faint of heart,
since the responsibility for overseeing layoffs,
or firing an employee,
usually lands in their hands.
These managers work both to attract
qualified candidates,
and to ensure they are productive
and fairly-treated once they’re hired.
They also develop recruiting and
training programs,
and administer employee pay and benefits.
Human resources managers make sure
employment policies are followed
throughout an organization.
They help managers and employees
understand work contracts
and resolve discipline issues or conflicts.
They may facilitate important conversations
about equal opportunities,
and preventing sexual harassment.
Sensitivity to others’ perspectives is important.
Human resource managers work in business,
government, education, and non-profits.
Some positions require travel,
especially to recruit applicants from
college campuses, or to attend conferences.
Typically, though, this is an office-based career
with 9-to-5 hours
and the possibility of good benefits.
A career as a human resources manager
usually begins with a bachelor’s degree
in human resource management,
business, communications, or a related field.
A good human resources manager is pivotal
to the morale and success of an organization.