Topic 2:

Getting Started in Training/Human resource management

Question: I finished my MS in Management three weeks ago. My major was organizational behavior and development. My BS Degree is in psychology.

I am six years out of high school, and the only job experience I have is working as a sales associate in retail during a few summers. I went straight from college to graduate school. I did not have an internship during school; but I did participate in a semester-long HR field research project in conjunction with a local organization, SHRM, and my school.

Relevant classes that I have had included: Human Resource Management, Coaching for Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Organizational Development and Change, Team Design and Development, Learning Psychology, and Industrial-Organizational Psychology. My ultimate career goal is to do work in coaching, or a related field such as leadership/management coaching. I figure that my best bet is to start out trying to get an entry-level job in training. My main weakness, of course, is having no professional experience. Here is my question: do you know how I should go about getting a job in training and development?

I joined my local SHRM and ASTD chapters. I apply for jobs posted on the Atlanta SHRM and ASTD sites, and I also apply for jobs posted in the Atlanta classified and on Monstertrak. I am networking the best I can. The career services at my school are not very good, although I have tried visiting their multiple times for advice (the main thing they could do for me was give me tips on how to improve my resume).

Thank you for your help.

--Carlton M. Daniel, Southeast

Answer: You have certainly started your job search campaign with a number of appropriate activities. However, there are some additional activities you can engage in to gain greater visibility and increase your chances of obtaining your desired training position.

· Attend ASTD & SHRM functions. Although during the summer the chapters may not hold monthly meetings, other activities may take place, such as special interest group (SIG) meetings, and summer social events. Participate in those functions you think are appropriate and do some networking. You will find that after attending a few functions, you will know some people and they will recognize you.
· Volunteer. Introduce yourself to chapter leaders and let them know of your interest in becoming involved in chapter activities. This is a good time to do this as plans are being made for the coming year and committee and task force members are being appointed. Strongly consider volunteering to staff the registration table for chapter events as this is a good place to meet people, be visible, and usually comes with a perk of free or reduced fees for the event.
· Talk with your professors about job leads. It is not unusual for professors to have a small consulting practice and as a result learn about position openings. Many times they are asked to refer some good candidates.
· How about checking with your school Alumni Office to see if it has an alumni resource bank. You can look for graduates in your field of interest or from companies that value workplace learning.
· Resume review. Lacking job experience, your resume should reflect your potential and capabilities and be demonstrated through your academic experience and achievements. Ask a couple of chapter members that you have gotten to know if they would critique your resume. Do they feel it projects your ideal professional image?
· Chapter career service programs. Many chapters provide mentors, a resume critiquing service, a job support group, etc. Make use of such programs. You will meet other people who are also seeking employment and thus, not feel so alone in this matter. If a job support group does not exist, select one of the chapters and see if you can organize the group.
· Job interviews. If you have had some job interviews, how do you feel about your performance? Do you feel comfortable and confident about job interviews? Find out if the University Career Center does job interview simulations. If your ASTD or SHRM Chapter has a job support group, suggest a presentation on job interviews as well as a job interview practice session.

You are realistic about where you can start as an entry-level position. As you grow as a T&D/HRD specialist and gain more experience, you will learn if coaching is truly your ultimate career goal. If so, you will need additional training/certification to make a successful transition. Good luck!

--AR