Specialising in an area of HR can be extremely rewarding and, in some industries, may pay a higher salary than a more generalist role. Both choices offer pathways to senior, strategic roles - so what should HR professionals in the early stages of their career consider when planning their career path?
Choosing what to specialise in should not just be about the salary potential of the job but what you can see yourself doing and being committed to for a good number of years. Factors to consider include your working style, technical skills, what you enjoy and your career aspirations.
A decision to specialise cannot be made without consideration of future market conditions.
While a generalist can apply for a wider range of positions, they can also face intense competition from a larger talent pool. However, while specialists can often find themselves in relatively high demand and low supply, opportunities may run a bit thin when spending slows.
Before you make this decision, consider how this move will play out given the likely nature of the market. If you’re considering another qualification, is this a good time? Or will this be risky given the current climate?
It is common for a HR specialist to move back into a more generalist role. And, while it may be more difficult to make the move, it is not impossible.
If you are looking to move back into a generalist role, it can be somewhat easier to do this internally or within the same industry sector. Relying on your industry knowledge will make the transition easier, particularly when leveraging your past generalist experience.
If you have chosen to specialise early on in your career, for instance moving from a role as a rewards analyst to a rewards manager, you may decide to upskill or undertake another qualification in order to bridge the gap and bring yourself up to speed on current best practice.
Our recent exit process survey has revealed that although 94% of employers would prefer their staff to come to them before resigning, the reality is that very few employees do so. Even though a professional might be looking for a new position, many will not disclose it to their bosses until after th
Read MoreThe job search can be potentially stressful for anyone seeking a new career. A professional recruitment consultant can alleviate this unnecessary stress and help you embark on your desired career path. Here are some useful pointers on how you can work with recruitment consultants. Build trust and st
Read MoreEmbracing change in the workplace has become a necessary skill for workers in 2022 and beyond. As the world acclimatises to a post-Covid-19 normal, companies and professionals have been, in one sense, forced into the future of work. It’s a future where work is often location agnostic, and where the
Read MoreCome join our global team of creative thinkers, problem solvers and game changers. We offer accelerated career progression, a dynamic culture and expert training.