In the past, human resource management encompassed all tasks, and HR practitioners will agree that the number of things they had to do could be overwhelming.
But today, the situation is slowly easing, as human resources specialties are growing. The hiring in the sector will be more active, as the specialties are very much in demand.
Companies differ in structuring their human resources department. Some companies hire HR practitioners that will do all tasks, from recruiting and training to compensation. However, some companies are focusing on one specialty. A small company may have a human resource manager who will handle all of the HR manager’s tasks.
But large corporations today are dividing the duties to ensure that employees do not suffer burnout. The duties are divided into various areas, such as training and development, labor relations, recruitment, benefits and compensation, and employment and placement.
Universities are also adjusting to the demand by offering degrees in different niches of human resource management.
Specialist jobs in human resources
With the changing work environment, it is essential to focus on skills and talents that are more beneficial to a company, necessitating specialisation rather than generalization. It is a more efficient way of utilising the competency of an HR practitioner.
The most in-demand specialities right now are the following:
Benefits and compensation managers
The HR practitioner develops, administers, and implements the organisation’s benefits and rewards policies, including salaries, pensions, bonuses, life insurance, and medical insurance.
Those interested in the job need to have a human resources management degree. You can improve your chances with a master’s degree in human resources or management and at least five years of experience.
Specialist in training and development
The specialist conducts and supervises development and training programs for the workforce. The specialty is splitting into a training and development manager and organizational development manager. The job involves working with training managers and company supervisors to develop measures to improve performance, hold orientation sessions, and set up on-the-job training to improve employees’ skills.
Specialist in recruitment, placement, and employment
The specialty is in recruitment, which entails finding the right person for the job. They look for promising employees by visiting college campuses and job fairs. Their job may include screening, interviewing, and testing job applicants. They may also do the task of checking references and extending job offers to qualified applicants.
Human resources information system analysts
Data analysis is important in human resource management today. The job requires the professional to communicate, coordinate, and implement the changes to the human resource department’s information system. In this specialization, a degree in information systems is a requirement. The specialization is important, and using modern technology, such as an HR system, improves performance.
Employee assistance plan managers
The welfare and well-being of employees are crucial in keeping them satisfied and committed to the company. The HR professional needs to execute and implement programs that will enhance all employees’ safety and wellness. They may be tasked with counseling services, flexitime programs, occupational safety, health standards and practices, and food service and recreational activities.
As the workplace environment continues to change, expect HR specializations to play an important part in utilizing HR practitioners’ skills to the fullest.