Consider these tips if you're thinking about a career shift to human resources. Talking with experienced professionals in this field is a must. You can ask for references from former colleagues, employers, mentors or advisors. References should provide their contact information and name, as well as the type of position or job title they held. References should be positive and show your willingness to learn.
Germaine Townsend
Germaine Townsend is a Certified Professional in Human Resources and an active SHRM member. She began her professional career in marketing and sales. 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, a native Louisiana of Houma, has been a resident of New Orleans since 2006 and is a Louisiana native.
Laura Arment
Laura Arment started her legal career as a corporate in-house lawyer after she left state government. She provided advice to companies on employment and environmental law issues. Then, she set up her own employment law firm. Laura moved into the HR field because she has a passion about people and organisations. Arment found it difficult to break into corporate HR because many companies don't view HR professionals as business partners. Therefore, many companies look for people with minimal experience in human capital management.
Jim McLeod
Jim McLeod was a Washington University professor and decided to change the direction of his career. He began his teaching career in the Arts and Sciences department of German, and then moved to various administrative positions. He served as the assistant to William H. Danforth, Chancellor from 1977 to 1987. From 1987 through 1992, he served as the director of Afro-American Studies Program. In 1993, he was named vice chancellor for students and oversaw undergraduate admissions, financial aid, student affairs, and graduation.
McLeod's career change to HR was seamless. He is an ex-minister who is now an independent thirdparty recruiter. His previous experience includes work at a children’s book publisher and family bookstore. He was mentored as a seminarian by another colleague before he made the transition to HR. After a few more years, he broke with his mentor and started his own recruiting company.
Paulo Fulton
Paulo Fulton began his career as a mental health supervisor. He then moved to Human Resources after completing his MBA. He was a Director of Talent Acquisition as well as with the talent development team. He also teaches his two daughters about the importance of life. Fulton is a well-respected leader in human resources. His varied backgrounds give him unique insight into the challenges facing this profession.