Career Center
Members may download one copy of our sample forms and templates for your personal use within your organization. Please note that all such forms and policies should be reviewed by your legal counsel for compliance with applicable law, and should be modified to suit your organization’s culture, industry, and practices. Neither members nor non-members may reproduce such samples in any other way (e.g., to republish in a book or use for a commercial purpose) without SHRM’s permission. To request permission for specific items, click on the “reuse permissions” button on the page where you find the item.
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Starting the journey to become an HR professional? Make certain your first step is in the right direction because this journey, like all others, will be more pleasant if you plan well.
From the earliest stages of your HR career, SHRM provides resources, tools and a road-tested pathway to help you successfully navigate every aspect of your career.
Not familiar with the career path SHRM suggests to be successful? Follow these five simple steps:
Step 1: Earn an HR Degree and cap it off by sitting for the SHRM-CP certification exam to differentiate yourself from other entry-level candidates trying to break into HR.
Step 2: Become a SHRM student member early in your career and rely on SHRM as your career partner throughout your career. Take advantage of your SHRM Student membership benefits to make the most out of your formal education years and to successfully transition to the HR world when you graduate.
Step 3: Gain experience and competitive advantage when competing for entry-level jobs by leveraging internships while earning your degree.
Step 4: Find that first HR job and gain experience; join your local SHRM professional chapter to build and leverage your professional network.
Step 5: Get ready to advance your career by mastering HR competencies and pursuing SHRM’s competency-based certification once you are eligible.
Career Development Quick Links and articles
Members may download one copy of our sample forms and templates for your personal use within your organization. Please note that all such forms and policies should be reviewed by your legal counsel for compliance with applicable law, and should be modified to suit your organization’s culture, industry, and practices. Neither members nor non-members may reproduce such samples in any other way (e.g., to republish in a book or use for a commercial purpose) without SHRM’s permission. To request permission for specific items, click on the “reuse permissions” button on the page where you find the item.
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