SHRM National Directory
of Student Local Chapters
Once you join the organizations above, you have developed a resource library of continuous learning. However, HR Professionals must also excel in learning thru local SHRM chapters and other local HR organizations. Sometimes a membership with a national organization does not provide the local needs of HR Professionals. For example, the national SHRM organization provides legal updates for national labor laws, but a California HR organization known as PIHRA, provides legal updates that are also important for those practicing HR in California. In addition to learning, joining a local chapter provides you with endless networking opportunities for future job opportunities or business opportunities. Here are a few local organizations to get your started, but be sure to visit SHRM's directory of local HR chapters: http://www.shrm.org/communities/shrmchapters/pages/default.aspx
Association for Talent Development
Founded in 1943, the Association for Talent Development is the world’s largest association dedicated to those who develop talent in organizations. ATD’s members come from more than 120 countries and work in public and private organizations in every industry sector. As the scope and the impact of the training and development field has grown, the profession’s focus has broadened to link the development of people, learning, and performance to individual and organizational results.
- Learn More: http://www.td.org
- Includes: "T+D" Magazine Subscription, online and email updates
World at Work
Founded in 1955, WorldatWork is focused on compensation, benefits, work-life effectiveness and total rewards. It's mission is to help total rewards professionals achieve their career goals and influence their organization's success. They do so by providing thought leadership in total rewards disciplines from the world's most respected experts and a community of fellow practitioners. WorldatWork has more than 70,000 members and subscribers worldwide.
- Learn More: http://www.worldatwork.org
- Includes: "Workspan" Magazine Subscription, email updates and online resources
The Society for Human Resource Management
Founded in 1948, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the world’s largest HR membership organization devoted to human resource management. Representing more than 275,000 members in over 160 countries, the Society is the leading provider of resources to serve the needs of HR professionals and advance the professional practice of human resource management. SHRM has more than 575 affiliated chapters within the United States and subsidiary offices in China, India and United Arab Emirates.
- Learn more: http://www.shrm.org
- Includes: "HR Magazine" Magazine Subscription, online articles, legal updates online
LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network with 300 million members in over 200 countries and territories around the globe. Their mission is to connect the world's professionals to make them more productive and successful. When you join LinkedIn, you get access to people, jobs, news, updates, and insights that help you be great at what you do.
For HR Professionals, LinkedIn is especially powerful. For Recruiters, you can find top talent who are not even looking for a new job. For networking, you can connect with people in your same industry to share experiences and best practices. For job seekers, many employers are looking to LinkedIn as a way to share their employment brand and recruit seasoned professionals. Whatever your need is, LinkedIn has a solution to increase your network and make you more successful.
What are you waiting for? Create a LinkedIn Profile today! Its free and will help you create powerful and long lasting relationships.
Further your HR knowledge by joining internationally recognized HR Associations. Your membership will unlock a knowledge database of unlimited articles, legal updates, and best practices reported by leaders in HR. In addition, you receive a monthly magazine that specializes in the respective HR function.
CPP
Certified Payroll Professional
Although payroll was originally considered a technical skill, today payroll has become a professional discipline. The CCP certifies individuals in all aspects of taxation and tax reporting, MIS, human resources (including benefits), and accounting as each of these relate to the payroll environment. Learn more: http://www.americanpayroll.org/certification-2/
- Advice: The CPP is very widely recognized, however it does require at least 3 years of specialized payroll experience. Consider taking the FPC, which doesn't require any experience at all. However please note that Payroll is a very technical field and therefore CPP and FPC certifications are not commonly attained by HR Managers.
Certified Recruiter
The LinkedIn Certified Recruiter designation is the only LinkedIn Sponsored certification that certifies your ability for identifying and engaging talent effectively, building a pipeline of talent, and posting jobs using LinkedIn Recruiter. Learn more at http://certification.linkedin.com
- Advice: Although this certification may sound tempting to seek, note that it requires at least 6 months utilizing the LinkedIn Recruiter feature. Therefore, you want to ensure that your organization is willing to purchase a paid subscription to the LinkedIn Recruiter feature. However, one of the key selling points is that you are able to have a "Certified" Badge on your LinkedIn profile which will help build your credibility.
CEBS
Certified Employee Benefits Specialist
Since 1977, the CEBS certification is the considered on of the most widely respected credentials in the Benefits space. Its goal is to help individuals develop a comprehensive understanding of compensation and employee benefit principles and concept. Learn more at http://www.ifebp.org/CEBSDesignation/Overview/Pages/default.aspx
- Advice: Many universities offer CEBS courses such as Wharton School at the University of Pennnsylvania and California State University at Los Angeles which will help better than textbooks. The CEBS costs up to $4,000 for textbooks and $3,500 for exams, so consider employer sponsorship.
PHR & SPHR
The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) & Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) are arguably the most widely recognized certifications in HR. Administered by the HR Certification Institute, PHR & SPHR certifies your mastery in HR operations, strategy, best practices and regulations in the U.S.. The highly sought after certifications help create a solid foundation for your future advancement. Other certifications offered are GPHR, HRMP, HRBP, PHR-CA and SPHR-CA. Visit the HR Certification Institute to learn more: www.hrci.org
- Advice: Even though these are very popular certifications, you must have exempt level experience in order to qualify. This means being an HR Assistant does not qualify, you must be a position such as an HR Generalist or HR Manager. Therefore, obtain your SHRM-CP/SCP before your PHR & SPHR.
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Recertify Your HR Certification
Stay Updated in HR Laws and Regulations
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Stay Updated in HR Best Practices
Join National HR Organizations & Read their Publications
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How to
Succeed in HR
Obtaining a college degree in HR and landing a job in HR are milestones in your professional career. However, as HR Professionals, we are challenged everyday with the development of new laws and regulations, new best practices, and new types of workforce which encourages us to strive for success. Here are some of the ways you can continue a successful career in HR.
- University of Akron
- University of Alabama - Huntsville
- Texas A&M University
- San Jose State University
- Winthrop University
- Michigan State University
- North Carolina State University
- Boise State University
- University of Puerto Rico - Rio Piedras
- University of Wisconsin - OshKosh
- Alvernia University
- Indiana Institute of Technology
- Central Washington University
- Lake Washington Institute of Technology
- SUNY - Geneseo
- University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
- California State University - Fresno
- Louisiana State University
View the full list
- Middle Tennessee State University
- Eastern Michigan University
- University of South Carolina
- West Virginia University
- Illinois State University
- Meredith College
- University of Northern Iowa
- University of Toledo
- University of Tennessee-Knoxville
- North Carolina A&T State University
- University of Texas - Arlington
- Villanova University
- University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
- University of Guam
- McNeese State University
- New York Institute of Technology
- Wayland Baptist University - Anchorage
- Bryant and Stratton College
View the full list
SHRM Rankings of Student Clubs
SHRM National Directory
of Local Chapters
"I believe joining a student organization on campus is important for students to gain insights from an HR professional currently in the workforce."
- Susan H.
Former President of Cal State LA HR Club
- HrCareerAdvice.com interviewed Susan H., the former President of the SHRM club at Cal State University, Los Angeles and currently working in the HR Department for Forever 21. She shared why it was important to joining HR clubs early on while in college. She said, "I believe joining a student organization on campus is important for students to gain insights from an HR professional currently in the workforce. During my time as a President we had guest speakers attend events to discuss how they transitioned from being a student to obtaining a position with their current company or HR issues they may have encountered. Many students attend their courses knowing HR from textbooks, but a big part of HR is knowing real life scenarios within the workforce. Another great thing about organizations would definitely be networking. My current company hires around 65% just from referrals, so knowing others within the same profession has its advantages."
The opportunities to join your local student chapter is endless! You will not only be able to network with working professionals, but learn how to apply classroom courses into business strategy. Chapters can be found at hundreds of schools nationwide. Many of these schools have also been recognized as outstanding SHRM Student Chapters. Become a leader in your student organization today!Here are just a few. For a full directory, visit http://www.shrm.org/communities/shrmchapters/studentchapters/pages/default.aspx
Join Student HR Clubs
Join Local HR Clubs and Attend the Meetings
CIR
Certified Internet Recruiter
The Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) designation is the most widely recognized professional standard for modern-day talent acquisition. The CIR focuses on passive candidate searches using all aspects of the latest recruitment strategies including internet sourcing, social sourcing, and professional networking recruiting tactics. Learn more: https://www.airsdirectory.com/mc/training_certification.guid
- Advice: There are not many recruiting certifications out there, so a CIR is helpful. You only need to attend one online course for 1 day and take the exam at the end of the course to obtain a CIR. Therefore, evaluate its credibility on your resume when justifying the nearly $1,000 course fee.
CPLP
Certified Professional in
Learning and Performance
The CPLP certification demonstrates your mastery in the Talent Development specialty of HR. It is based on the ATD Competency model of key areas of expertise such as instructional design, change management, and performance improvement. Learn more: http://www.td.org/certification
- Advice: The CPLP requires five years experience in designing learning programs or delivering training for your organization. Not many HR departments provide opportunities to do this. Even more, it requires a submission of a work project. Therefore, more HR Specialists in training may be more suitable for this certification.
CCP
Certified Compensation Professional
The CCP shows that you understand how to integrate compensation programs with business strategy, design and administer base and variable pay programs, comply with legal and regulatory requirements, and effectively communicate compensation information. Visit WorldatWork to learn more: www.worldatwork.com
- Advice: The CCP is a very specialized certification that require the successful passing of 10 exams which is recommending for only the extremely dedicated HR professional. Priced at nearly $10,000 the CCP usually is obtained by Compensation Analysts. You may want to wait on achieving this certification until your employer becomes a sponsor.
SHRM-CP & SHRM-SCP
In 2015, the largest HR organization in world, SHRM, introduced new certifications to the industry, the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) & SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). These credentials are aligned to global business needs and more meaningfully linked to performance. The basis for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP is the SHRM Body of Competency and Knowledge (SHRM BoCK) which describes the Behavioral Competencies and Functional Areas of Knowledge needed for effective job performance. Visit SHRM to learn more: www.shrmcertification.org
- Advice: Obtain these certifications as soon as possible because your experience does not have to be at the exempt level, but instead can be non-exempt. In other words, your experience as an HR Assistant qualifies as experience, when the PHR & SPHR does not allow you to use that experience because they only allow exempt experience (HR Generalist/HR Manager, etc.)
Now that you have the work experience, its time to get certified as an HR Professional. You may think that its not necessary. But, when employers are choosing between two final candidates for an HR Manager position, guess which candidate they will choose? An HR certification distinguishes you from the rest. Below are some information on the various HR certifications available.
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I passed the SHRM-CP Exam in May 2015 and I would like to share my success story on how to pass the exam. Please note that these tips do not include any confidential information about the actual exam such as the content of the test questions as we agree not to share this information. Instead, these tips are general preparation tips. Just finished the SHRM-CP exam May 2 at a Prometic test site in Diamond Bar, CA. I used the SHRM Learning System and the SHRM instructor Led course at Cal State Dominguez Hills. Both of these methods indeed helped me prepare!
OPTION 1
- Find a local school in your area that offers the SHRM Certification preparation course.The course will COME WITH the SHRM Learning System together with the course fee. Attend the classes weekly and participate and stay engaged. I took my prep class at Cal State Dominguez HIlls and it was very informative and engaging! Visit http://www.shrm.org/certification/learning/options/pages/partners.aspx and click your state to learn about the different education partners.
- Before you start studying take a MOCK FULL LENGTH Pre-test on www.learnhrm.com (password given after purchase)
- Then, Study at home at least once a week. YOU MUST READ THE MATERIAL. Don't just think sitting in class will prepare you. Read word by word. I read almost all the books word by word and I already have my MASTERS! However I always learn more things everytime I read. While ready, make fake flash cards using the website http://www.kitzkikz.com/flashcards/ but of course put your notes in a word document and transfer to the website later.
- THEN, login to http://www.learnhrm.com with the password they give you with the purchase of the books. Take the assessment questions after completing each module
- THEN, Print out the flash cards for each module from the website.
- Study using the Flash Cards you created from the website PLUS the Flash Cards you use from taking notes.
- When you finish, take the MOCK POST test and time yourself. This is a full length test.
- This is the best way study because you cover all bases (1) auditory learning in class (2) detailed learning thru reading (3) repetition thru flash cards. This three step process can help you.
OPTION 2
You can also study only using the SHRM Learning System
- You still get 2 Full Length tests
- You still get flash cards
- However you will not get the benefit from auditory and group learning from in-class sessions. Keep in mind that the makers of the SHRM learning system do not have access to test questions, so all the MOCK tests are "estimated" questions that they will ask, but better than nothing.
On the Day of the Test
When selecting a test center make sure you go to one you know! I took many tests at the Prometric one in Diamond Bar, California its great and peaceful! Be sure to take advantage of the STRIKE OUT FEATURE when marking possible answers out so they do not show anymore. Also be careful with the SJT (Situational Judgement Test Questions) there is the "best answer" and the "partial good answer", so make sure you read the HR Competencies module well because SJTs rely heavily on competencies and the SHRM-BoCk.
Choosing SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP
Be careful choosing between SHRM-CP and SCP exams, even though you qualify for both. The SCP is MORE questions in the SAME AMOUNT OF TIME, and even more SJTs, which are very time consuming. Plus it focuses more on the Strategy Module whereas CP focuses more on administration.
How to Pass the SHRM-CP Exam
What's Next?
International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans
The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to being a leading objective and independent global source of employee benefits, compensation and financial literacy education and information.
The Foundation delivers education, information and research, and networking opportunities to thousands of benefits and compensation professionals who have come to rely on it for objective, accurate and timely information.
- Learn More: http://www.ifebp.org
- Includes: "BENEFITS" Magazine Subscription, online and email updates
Contribute
Have something to say? Want to see what other people are saying? Join our LinkedIn Group and start a new discussion or read current ones!
Classroom Learning
Exam preparation classes can be found on-campus at many reputable educational institutions like UCLA Extension, Cal State Dominguez Hills Extension, and at your local university. Working professionals will appreciate evening classes and learning from experienced instructors who work in the field of HR.
CLRP
Certified Labor Relations Professional
The Labor Relations Academy Certification Program (CLRP®), is an innovative teaching program designed specifically for public sector labor relations and human resources professionals who are new to the field, as well as for experienced practitioners seeking additional training. Labor Relations is the study of negotiating and managing union relationships in your workplace. Learn more: https://www.airsdirectory.com/mc/training_certification.guid
- Advice: If you plan to be employed in a union environment, the CLRP would provide credibility to your resume. Some people think unions are a thing of the past, but they are still very prevalent in today's workplace. Dealing with unions is much different than non-union environments. Learn more today.
HRIP
Human Resource Information Professional
The HR Information Professional is geared toward HRIS Analysts. Sponsored by the International Association for HR Information Management founded in 1980, this exam is designed to assess the knowledge and competencies of professionals in the HR technology field. Passing the exam indicates a demonstrated comprehensive understanding and
proficiency of the defined body of knowledge in HR information management. Learn more: http://ihrim.org/Certification_Overview.html
- Advice: The HRIP Certification is not commonly pursued by HR Generalists, therefore having this certification will distinguish you from everyone else. As HR leaders become more dependent on HR metrics and analytics, HRIS is becoming a much more respected field.
PCC
Professional Certified Coach
The Professional Certified Coach (PCC) is not a common certification, but as coaching becomes more needed in corporate environments, so does the certification. Certified coaches demonstrate not only knowledge and skill, but also a commitment to high professional standards and a strong code of ethics. Learn more: http://coachfederation.org/credential/landing.cfm?ItemNumber=2202&navItemNumber=745
- Advice: Coaching may not seem like its needed in an organization, but often time department managers and high potential employees need to be coached to more effective in their jobs. I would recommend this certification if you are interesting in developing the next generation leaders in your organization.
Tools 2 Succeed
This company provides HR professionals training programs to develop a "high-performance organization that achieves outstanding and sustainable results, one in which every employee feels and acts like a partner in the business and is excited to contribute to its success. Tools 2 SUCCEED has tools for "leadership development workshops, sexual harassment prevention training, management consulting, coaching, outplacement, and online e-Learning courses. A bonus is that they are an approved provider of the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) for recertification. They have 8000+ clients around the world. Visit them today!
Human Capital Institute
Although, the Human Capital Institute ("HCI") is focused on recruiting, there are many best practices to be learned from their training. According to HCI, "today’s human capital professionals are constantly searching for the cutting-edge talent practices that can help their companies succeed." They don't use just main stream thought but "open-source human capital best practices from prominent companies, thought leaders, and academic research." Visit HCI today!
International Association for HR Information Management
Founded in 1980, the International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM) has been the leading membership association for HR information management professionals and offers a unique community that blends education, collaboration and professional certification. HRIS is increasingly becoming a major part of a successful HR department.
- Learn More: http://www.ihrim.org
- Includes: "Workforce Solutions Review" Subscription, online and email updates
As an aspiring HR Professional, you not only have to be kept updated on laws and regulations, but on best practices that will empower you to lead your organizations to success! Here are a few vendors to help you on the right path:
As an aspiring HR Professional, learning is continuous and happens everyday. If you plan to get a certification either your SPHR, PHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, CCP, etc. its wise to start preparing for your exams early. You can seek preparation thru classroom learning, self learning, or e-Learning by Instructor.
e-Learning by Instructor
What if you want a blend of learning styles? e-Learning provides that luxury where you can benefit from an instructor led course online at a scheduled time AND at home study materials to review taught material at your own pace. Vendors like the Employers Group now provide e-Learning for the SHRM-SCP/CP exams.
Self Learning
If you prefer to study at home without an instructor, then many book and CD materials are available. For the SHRM-CP/SCP, there is the SHRM Learning System. For the SPHR/PHR, there are third party vendors. Get started today!
Every school year, SHRM announces its recipients of their awards for Outstanding Student Chapter, Superior Merit Award, and Merit Award. These awards recognize individual university chapters for their excellence in Recruitment, Innovation/Technology, Campus/Community Service, and Programming/Education. Congratulations to the award winners.
Exclusive Interview with Former HR Club President
Are you still a student? Consider joining or starting a SHRM local chapter at your school! Hundreds of schools across the US already have student chapters established by their university. This provides opportunity for aspiring HR professionals to network with real life HR professionals to learn how to deal with real issues facing businesses and the workforce today.
Sometimes local HR meetings isn't enough. Introducing HR conferences, events where thousands of industry professionals gather in one location to not only network and build relationships, but to listen to new best practices and legislation that is not always available locally, but nationally. Many organizations sponsor these conferences. The most notable is the SHRM Annual Conference and Exposition held in rotating cities across the U.S. SHRM has the reputation of booking the most notable keynote speakers such as Al Gore and Hillary Clinton. Explore the power of knowledge and networking, attend a conference today!
Connect
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American Payroll Association
Founded in 1982, the American Payroll Association is the nation's leader in payroll education, publications, and training. APA conducts payroll training conferences and seminars across the country and publishes a complete library of resource texts and newsletters. Representing more than 20,000 members, APA is the industry's highly respected and collective voice in Washington, D.C.
- Learn More: http://www.americanpayroll.org
- Includes: "PAYTECH" Subscription, online and email updates
I really hoped you enjoyed reading HR Career Advice.com. My goal is to help you succeed in the field of HR. Yes, its hard to begin, but trust me, after spending 5 years practicing HR, I can tell you its one of the most rewarding fields I have been in. You not only "help people" but you help people succeed to their highest potential and become better contributors and performers to the organization as whole. Together, lets motivate employees, one at a time!
If you would like personalized career advice for HR, I would be happy to help! I also help with editing your resume, cover letter, mock job interview, and even meeting you in person. Learn more below!
Everybody needs a little bit of help - and what better way then to join a community of similar professionals in your industry! What many professionals don't know is that LinkedIn also has a "Groups" feature where communities develop of professionals. For HR, there are tons of groups out there. However, we recommend joining our own group called the "HR Career Advice Group" which is moderated by Randy Aung, the creator of HR Career Advice.com. Join today! Its free! As a group member you will receive updates on this website and updates on the latest trends and best practices in HR! Over 100 members have joined, join today: http://www.linkedin.com/groups/HR-Career-Advice-4324333
SHRM Guide to Creating a Student Chapter at Your School
Start your journey today! Check out if your school has a student club currently, or you may even consider creating your own chapter. Leadership experience in student activities not only strengthens your resume, but provides you with real life experience based on your classroom education.
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- University of Scranton
- University of Northern Florida
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Puerto Rico - Bayamon
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Florida
- Utah State University
- University of West Florida
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania -
Graduate Chapter - University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Undergraduate Chapter - SUNY - Oswego
- California State University - Long Beach
- Kansas State University
- Webster University - North Florida
- Georgia Southern University
- University of South Dakota
- California State University - Stanislaus
View the full list
We value your feedback and suggestions for improvement! Please tell us if you found this HR Career Advice Guide helpful and let us know how we can improve this guide.
As an HR Professional, you will be required to not only learn Employment Law and Regulations, but stay up to date in the field. In California alone, we just passed legislation to regulate Sick Days, provide a higher minimum wage, and mandate additional training to be provided to management. Here are a few ways to stay up to date with Employment Law and Regulations:
- For California employers, subscribe to Cal Chamber
- Join HR Organizations like SHRM which gives legislative updates
- Attend educational seminars held by HR Hero
- Attend employment law conferences held by different law firms such as FS&K
- Research thru the different articles published at LawRoom
Once your attain your certification, it is important to recertify in order to maintain your certification. Recertifying is more than just a requirement, it will help you stay abreast of new research, trends, and best practices. It will increase your value in your organization and you will remain more marketable than other candidates. Most importantly, staying certified will refine your knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to perform effectively and adapt to changes in the work environment. Look for these symbols next to courses and seminars available in your area. Here is a few ways to recertify:
- Local Organization Meetings
- Educational Webinars
- Certification Preparation Courses
- Conference Attendance
- Skill-building Seminars
- Article Reviewer
- Advisory Board Participation
- Supervisor Work Endorsed Projects
- Volunteer Leadership
- Speaking at Conference
- And Much More!
Join or Start a Student Chapter at Your School!
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