Human resources, recruitment and training

Human resources, recruitment and training are key functions in modern businesses, so graduates working in these areas could find jobs in most sectors of the economy.

'Human resource management' describes the function that manages a company’s employees or human resources. It has evolved from what traditionally was an administrative department to one that is strategic in nature and has the ability to make a positive impact on both the organisation and on individual employees.

Human resource professionals are involved with recruitment, training, career development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, industrial relations, employment law, compliance, disciplinary and grievance issues, redundancies etc. Generalist HR functions are usually found in small and medium sized companies where the HR manager will deal with the whole range of HR activities. In large multinationals you will often find specialists, for example in learning and development, recruitment or employee relations.

Getting a job

While some HR graduate training programmes are available, they are rare in Ireland. Many graduates gain an entry-level role as an HR administrator. Competition for HR roles among graduates is fierce and while an HR degree is not necessary, it can be an advantage.

• Human resources, recruitment and training FAQs: everything you need to know about getting a job in human resources, recruitment and training