How Can I Become a Human Resources Consultant?

The human resources department plays a crucial role in any organization. The tasks of human resource specialists range from recruitment, placement and employee development, managing compensation and benefits, facilitating employee assistance and ensuring compliance with labor laws. These functions are typically performed in-house, but a human resources consultant may be brought in for special projects.

Role of a Human Resources Consultant

Due to the diverse nature of human resources functions, some tasks may be outsourced to a consultant with expert knowledge in the particular issue. For instance, some companies use a consultant to recruit, pre-screen and evaluate candidates for employment. This strategy streamlines the hiring process and lightens the load of in-house human resources specialists.

Many of the human resources functions can be outsourced fully or partially to a consultant. By doing so, the department can focus on more important issues while ensuring that outsourced tasks are in the hands of experts. This means that you have to have proof of expertise in a specialized field to hold a consultancy position.

At times, a consultant is brought in as an emergency measure when the company faces major issues in the department. As an example, a company facing an employment discrimination lawsuit may bring a consultant to review its hiring and employee management practices. The consultant brings a fresh, third party perspective that could identify problematic policies not immediately apparent to insiders.

Career Track for Consultancy Positions in Human Resources

The key to a successful career as a consultant for human resources departments is verifiable expertise, which is not something you can gain overnight.

Start by completing a bachelor’s in human resources management or a degree in business. Line up internships in this field, and gain as much practical experience as you can through volunteer or paid positions.

Make sure to join professional organizations, such as the Society for Human Resource Management, that are relevant to your field to network with your peers and industry leaders. Strive to make a name for yourself by participating in industry events if not seeking leadership positions in these organizations. Find a mentor who can help you find your way in the industry.

Plan on completing advance degrees to build up your credentials. This may include a master’s in management, an MBA or a master’s in human resources and organizational development. A law degree is also helpful if you plan to specialize in the legal aspect of human resources management. In place of the advance degrees, you can also consider the certificate programs offered by local colleges or private organizations.

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You will also need to build up your resume through gainful employment. Let your resume reflect your abilities and your expanding expertise in human resources matters. Note that you do not have to be an expert in all the fields related to human resources, but you have to demonstrate above-average competence in a certain field.

Striking out on your Own

To become an HR consultant, you will have to build your own client base. Join the local chamber of commerce and show your commitment by supporting the organization’s activities. By this time, you should have collected enough names of human resources executives and other industry leaders. However, it may be prudent to join an HR firm at the outset

There are many advantages to becoming a human resources consultant, one of which is that you will be your own boss. You can work the hours that are convenient for you, and you can define your own work process.