Working in the field of human resources, leaders (and teams) will be faced with many challenges that are sometimes outside of their scope. Staying on top of the latest innovations to elevate daily workflow processes, learning to approach each situation with an empathetic ear and actively listening to the concerns of people are also big parts of the job. That's all the more reason why front-facing HR workers should pursue continuing education opportunities to advance their skills and expertise.
Expanding on one’s knowledge indicates a serious commitment to the role, positioning HR representatives to be better equipped to provide the right guidance and essential support for employees throughout their personal career trajectory at the company.
Below, 10 Forbes Human Resources Council members list their top picks for the HR credentials and skills that will be beneficial for professionals who want to serve their fellow co-workers more efficiently with the best resources while also improving their status in the workplace and industry overall.
Forbes Human Resources Council members share their tips.
Photos courtesy of individual members.1. Adult Mental Health First Aid Response
Explore becoming an adult mental health first aid responder. Not only does positive mental health help teams better cope with challenges and remain agile, but it also enables employers to proactively identify the signs and symptoms of their employees who may need a little extra support and resources to better handle their current circumstances. Being healthy, mentally, is and will continue to be imperative. - Jessica Adams, Brad's Deals
2. Analytics And Data Science
Certifications in the areas of analytics and data science could be great investments. HR is often blamed for not being data-led. Its ability to influence business has remained limited due to this. Over the last two years or so, HR has come a long way in securing the proverbial seat at the table. Adding data and analytics abilities can truly cement the position and enhance the value further. - Sudhir Singh, Pro Orgs
Forbes Human Resources Council is an invitation-only organization for HR executives across all industries. Do I qualify?
3. Flexibility And Adaptability
Through the tremendous learnings we have acquired during the recent pandemic era, in my humble view with limited knowledge in HR, I would mention that HR leaders should develop their mindset in flexibility and adaptability. Since the future is uncertain with compounded complexity, learning to be more flexible and adaptable can help HR leaders support changing business demographics. - Prakash Raichur, Taghleef Industries
4. Diversity, Equity And Inclusion
DEI certification is without a doubt a much-needed credential that is critical for these current times. Following the higher demands from the Great Resignation as well as an increasingly diverse culture, leaders and professionals need to have a better understanding of who their team members are, personally and professionally. Employees want to feel a great sense of belonging and understanding. - Tiersa Smith-Hall, Tiera Hall Impactful Imprints, Training & Consulting
5. Sufficient Understanding And Application
The HR field is filled with excellent credentials by various reputed bodies across the globe. It won't hurt to obtain any of those to grow your career. Obtaining these credentials while necessary won't be sufficient. Demonstrating an understanding of what you have learned and applying that same knowledge to benefit your organization to deliver on its business outcomes will help accelerate your HR career. - Bala Sathyanarayanan, Greif Inc
6. Trauma-Informed Care
Today's HR leaders have to be abreast of how to appropriately handle mental health concerns in the workplace without crossing the line. I believe that every HR team and even an organization's leaders should move towards becoming trauma-informed. By doing so, these leaders will be able to understand the signs of trauma and know how to take the necessary steps to help their employees. - Raven Lee, Raven Lee Consulting LLC
7. Mindfulness And Emotional Intelligence
Credentialed training in the areas of mindfulness and emotional intelligence should be on the list for any leader or professional, but especially for anyone with a role in HR where copious amounts of these abilities are needed now more than ever. Employee burnout in the HR field is on a rapid rise and you cannot effectively run a people-centric business without an HR team that is mindful and brain healthy. - Bryan Passman, Hunter + Esquire
8. Human Resources Management
Earning SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR or SPHR certifications demonstrates your mastery of the HR body of knowledge, increases your confidence and establishes your dedication to upholding industry standards and best practices. These certifications signal to your employer that you're committed to learning. This may increase your earning power, marketability and credibility. - Lisa Shuster, iHire
9. Change Management And Agile Methodology
Change management acumen will be critical in the second half of the year and next year, so getting educated and certified in how to advance change will be a must. Similarly, agile methodology is an excellent skill set to have to understand how to construct teams that work together. - Cat Colella-Graham, Employee Experience Leader, Consultant
10. Employment Law, Innovative Learning Techniques And Wellness
Credentials are less important than continual learning and training. HR pros need to continually stay on top of employment law, diversity and inclusion best practices, innovative learning techniques and general wellness offerings. This can be accomplished by reading, listening to blogs, doing specialty training, attending webinars and networking with others. - Elizabeth Corey, Velosio
