There are many routes into HR, with the most common being for graduates to either join a graduate programme or obtain their first position as a HR Assistant/Administrator.
Some HR professionals move into the area through line management roles. This is especially the case with Training professionals who evolve into these positions having worked as an Operational Manager, with a keen interest in developing their team(s).
On the road to gaining professional qualifications in HR, some start with their Certificate in Personnel Practice (CIPP) before moving on to studying the CIPD. Many HR professionals gain their GradCIPD qualification through their degree or through post graduate studies. This leads on to the MCIP qualification after a period of relevant practical HR experience gained within a business. With regards to Training, there is the Certificate in Training Practice, which is the formal training qualification within this field.
With personal development plans in place within many businesses, most companies will support their HR staff through these qualifications, both through financial support and designated time off work.
