It’s no surprise that the job market for HR professionals is tight. With the influx of technology and automation, HR departments are being asked to do more with less. As a result, many HR professionals are seeking roles outside of HR in order to expand their skillset and increase their job security. According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), nearly two-thirds of HR job seekers are interested in roles outside of HR.
This is a disconcerting trend, as it suggests that many HR professionals are feeling increasingly insecure in their current roles. Job seekers in HR are likely to have excellent qualifications, so the fact that many are looking outside of HR is a sign of an underlying problem.
So what is driving this trend? One of the primary factors is the increasing demand for technology and automation in the workplace. This has made some HR roles obsolete, leaving many HR professionals feeling as if they are no longer needed. Additionally, the rise of online hiring platforms has made it easier for employers to find qualified workers without needing to rely on HR departments.
The fact that so many HR professionals are looking outside of HR also suggests that the profession is not providing the level of job satisfaction that it once did. Many HR professionals are feeling undervalued, as their departments struggle to keep up with the demand for technology and automation. Additionally, the HR profession is becoming increasingly regulated, which can limit the amount of creative thinking and innovation that HR professionals are able to bring to their roles.
The good news is that there are many roles outside of HR that offer potential for HR professionals to grow. These include roles in operations, finance, and marketing, as well as roles in software development, data analytics, and customer service. By transitioning to these roles, HR professionals can gain valuable skills and experience that can help them succeed in their new roles.
At the same time, HR departments must take steps to ensure that they remain relevant in the workplace. This includes rethinking their strategies and processes to incorporate technology and automation. It also means investing in training and development programs to ensure that HR professionals remain up to date with the latest trends and techniques.
For HR job seekers, the best course of action is to look for roles that offer opportunities to develop and grow. While it is understandable that many HR professionals are feeling the pressure to look outside of HR, it is important to remember that there are still plenty of opportunities to be found within the HR profession. By doing the research and taking the time to find the right role, HR professionals can ensure that they remain engaged and fulfilled in their careers.
