These are some tips for people who want to make a career change in human resources. It is important to be able speak with professionals who are successful in your field. You can ask for references from former colleagues, employers, mentors or advisors. Referees should give their contact information and names, along with details about the position or job title. Referees should emphasize your willingness to learn and provide positive reasons for the change.
Germaine Townsend
Germaine Townsend is a Certified Professional in Human Resources, and an active member in SHRM organizations. Her professional career began in sales and marketing. After working in marketing for 10 years, she moved to human resources and has since successfully used her experience. She is passionate about diversity and inclusion and has served on the NOLA SHRM Board of Directors and launched the first Diversity and Inclusion Book Club. Germaine is a New Orleans native and a Houma, Louisiana native.
Laura Arment
Laura Arment was a state official before she began her legal career. She advised companies on matters including employment law and environmental law. After that, she started her own employment law company. Laura was passionate about people and organizations so she decided to enter the HR industry. Arment had a difficult time getting into corporate HR. Many companies don't see HR professionals as partners in the company. Therefore, many companies look for people with minimal experience in human capital management.
Jim McLeod
Jim McLeod resigned from the Washington University in St. Louis faculty to pursue a new career. He was a German teacher in the Arts and Sciences section, and then he went on to take up various administrative positions. He served as assistant for William H. Danforth in 1977-87. From 1987 to 1992, he was the director of the African and Afro-American Studies Program. He was appointed vice chancellor of students in 1993 and was responsible for undergraduate admissions, financial assistance, student affairs and graduation.
The career transition to HR was a natural one for McLeod, a former minister and now an independent third-party recruiter. His work history includes a publisher of children's books and a family bookstore. Before moving to HR, he was mentored in his work by a fellow pastor. After some years, he decided to leave his mentor and start his own company.
Paulo Fulton
Paulo Fulton was a mental-health services supervisor. After earning his MBA, Fulton moved into Human Resources. He has held positions as a Director of Talent Acquisition and with talent development teams. He also teaches two of his daughters about life. Fulton has become a respected leader in the human resources field. Because of his diverse background, Fulton has a unique perspective about the challenges that this profession presents.