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Job outlook for human resources technicians in the United States
Human resources technician job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected human resources technician job growth rate is 0% from 2018-2028.
About -5,200 new jobs for human resources technicians are projected over the next decade.
Human resources technician salaries have increased 11% for human resources technicians in the last 5 years.
There are over 320,328 human resources technicians currently employed in the United States.
There are 39,846 active human resources technician job openings in the US.
The average human resources technician salary is $40,933.
Are human resources technician jobs in demand?
Human Resources Technician job and salary trends over time
Human Resources Technician jobs over time
Human Resources Technician job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 320,328 | 0.10% |
| 2020 | 295,237 | 0.09% |
| 2019 | 297,719 | 0.09% |
| 2018 | 291,055 | 0.09% |
| 2017 | 286,413 | 0.09% |
Average human resources technician salary over time
Human Resources Technician salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $40,933 | $19.68 | +4.4% |
| 2024 | $39,211 | $18.85 | +2.6% |
| 2023 | $38,226 | $18.38 | +2.3% |
| 2022 | $37,365 | $17.96 | +1.2% |
| 2021 | $36,930 | $17.75 | +2.4% |
Human Resources Technician jobs by state
Most common states for human resources technicians
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 190 | 27% |
| 2 | Alaska | 739,795 | 118 | 16% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 181 | 13% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 853 | 12% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 116 | 12% |
| 6 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 608 | 11% |
| 7 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 120 | 11% |
| 8 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 83 | 11% |
| 9 | Vermont | 623,657 | 71 | 11% |
| 10 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,010 | 10% |
| 11 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 850 | 10% |
| 12 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 569 | 10% |
| 13 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 326 | 10% |
| 14 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 324 | 10% |
| 15 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 200 | 10% |
| 16 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 127 | 10% |
| 17 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 87 | 10% |
| 18 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,094 | 9% |
| 19 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 902 | 9% |
| 20 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 663 | 9% |
Most common cities for human resources technicians
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marshalltown | 1 | 4% | $34,514 |
| 2 | Menlo Park | 1 | 3% | $53,739 |
| 3 | Saint Cloud | 1 | 1% | $38,028 |
| 4 | Thornton | 1 | 1% | $39,130 |
| 5 | Colorado Springs | 2 | 0% | $39,248 |
| 6 | San Diego | 2 | 0% | $48,215 |
| 7 | Anchorage | 1 | 0% | $39,793 |
| 8 | Austin | 1 | 0% | $37,722 |
| 9 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $45,638 |
| 10 | Tampa | 1 | 0% | $38,180 |
Human Resources Technician job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of human resources technician experts
University of the West
University of Arizona
University of Scranton
Coastal Carolina University
James Madison University
California State University - Fullerton
Cleveland State University
Carthage College
Lamar University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Brigham Young University - Idaho
University of Arizona
Wichita State University
Louisiana State University and A&M College
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Ale Kennedy: As long as there are humans working, Human Resources is needed. This is a great time to enter the Human Resources field because Human Resources is the nucleus to many initiatives- the people. There are also so many different areas of Human Resources, which require different skill sets… ranging form project management, strategic planning, talent acquisition, compensation, records, customer service , training, to conflict management.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Ale Kennedy: The majority of time is spent listening to customers and providing service, whether it is hiring, classification, training, and/or a difficult employee. Human Resources is relied on heavily to provide guidance during difficult situations and through processes.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ale Kennedy: Customers enjoy the service and expertise they receive from Human Resources; however, at times many may be frustrated because Human Resources provides guidance on policies, which at times is not what some want to hear.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Timothy Egan M.S. Marketing: -Research the company well for your first job as it will impact the way you feel about full-time employment.
-Your first job won't be your last job. Use it to learn about yourself and an environment you can thrive in
-Don't be afraid to move for a job opportunity or a second one for the first few years. Because if you want a spouse/partner, children, pets and a home it will be harder to explore the world with all those responsibilities.
-If you want to work 100% remotely that can be good/flexible for a young professional, but you make yourself vulnerable to layoffs and disconnection. Having face time with management and coworkers builds an important rapport. Hybrid is better than remote
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Timothy Egan M.S. Marketing: -Understanding finance and how it impacts the operations of where you work, can help you have great insight into new opportunities or see the writing on the wall in tough times.
-Don't be afraid to learn new technologies, especially ones that collect data. Enhance your tech-based skills as that will increase your value to the organization where you work and the business community at large.
-Learn Spanish. While globalization may have you think about learning an Asian language, the Spanish speaking market is the faster growing in the US and has been since 2010.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Timothy Egan M.S. Marketing: -Under promise and over deliver.
-Know your value, self-assess your skills, your knowledge and your role. Understand when and when not a company can give increases.
-Build an internal support system. Make sure you have people who will go to bat for you when you want to move up internally.
-After succeeding don't be afraid to ask for an increase.
-And remember, stay humble. The minute you think you know everything; you haven't learned anything.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Edward Ferguson: The skill sets I feel that would be most needed to and prevalent in the next 5 years will be:
Hands on experiences with animals of all species.
Knowing animal behavior and body language
Computer skills for many aspects of the business world but also how to collect, review, and learn from data taken about productivity, breeding, sales, etc.
Being adaptable/open minded. Don't be afraid to try new things and think outside the box
Know common life skills/problem solving
Internships throughout their years of higher education, nothing is better than experience.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Edward Ferguson: I would recommend to a student beginning their career to not focus primarily on income as a determinant for employment. I know this can be difficult in their mind, but beginning your career you will be much more adaptable and versatile in terms of where they may need to move to and flexibility in working hours. In the beginning, I would recommend take the employment offer that provides you with the best experiences and skill accumulation. I would not look for the most pleasant job, closest to home. This is a time in your life where you can be flexible and the single most important thing you can do in the beginning is gain as valuable work experience as possible. Very few people graduate from college with all the hands-on skills needed to excel at work immediately. But, if a young professional is willing to travel where the best experiences are, and can gain and master many of the skills necessary to succeed and advance in their career path they are more likely to be able to pick and chose where and when they work later on in life when those things become even more important (when they have a family and other depending on them for time and attention).
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Edward Ferguson: I think the most important thing a young professional can do is to expand their skill set - this means volunteering for jobs and opportunities others may not want. When a young professional expands their abilities and shows initiative in the process supervisors will notice this and begin to form a subconscious opinion of the persona as a hard-working, dedicated professional that is motivated to being the best they can be. This will directly lead to being assigned more duties and responsibilities which will ultimately come with increased salary and better opportunities for professional growth. Also, another important component to being promoted and increasing your salary potential in the work place is being able to demonstrate consistently good "people skills" learning how to listen to others, take constructive criticism, and being able to demonstrate conflict resolution will go a very long ways to improving your chances of moving "up" at a company and thereby increasing your salary. I think if someone looks at the situation as how much money do I want to earn, what kind of person earns that level of income and then what can I do to make myself one of those people - that individual will be way more likely to achieve their end goal.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Sara Moore MBA: In the next 3-5 years, employers will gravitate towards candidates with three vital skills: communication, problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork. Communication skills are essential as professionals navigate complex interactions with diverse stakeholders, effectively express ideas, and cultivate meaningful connections. Additionally, problem-solving and critical thinking abilities will be in high demand as the field faces new challenges and explores innovative solutions. As the landscape of human development continues to evolve, collaborative teamwork will grow in importance, reflecting the trend towards interdisciplinary and diverse approaches. Professionals who excel in these three skills will be well-equipped to manage emerging issues, propel positive change, and make meaningful contributions to society.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sara Moore MBA: Maximizing salary potential, when starting a career in this field requires proactive strategic planning. First, research industry standards and salary ranges for entry-level positions to understand your market value based on your skills and qualifications. Additionally, pursue experiential learning opportunities during your education, such as internships or relevant part-time jobs, as this will make you stand out from the competition. Networking with professionals, attending career fairs, and leveraging online platforms can also open doors to lucrative opportunities. Furthermore, always be able to confidently articulate why you are the best candidate and perhaps negotiate your offer package (salary, benefits, etc.). Lastly, it may be beneficial to consider your geographical location, job outlook /demand, and opportunities for advancement to maximize your salary potential throughout your career journey.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Sara Moore MBA: Networking is a crucial aspect to build a successful career in the human development field, extending far beyond your first job placement. It's a life-long endeavor that involves intentionally seeking mentorship and connecting with other professionals in the field who can offer valuable guidance, support, and specific advice based on their own experiences. As you engage with mentors and peers, remain open to diverse opportunities that align with your skills, interests, values, and career aspirations. A Bachelor of Science in Human Development provides many career path opportunities, including social services, research, healthcare, education, advocacy, and policy analysis. Create your dream career journey by defining your short- and long-term goals, crafting a clear action plan, setting milestones, tracking progress, and adjusting to stay on course.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Prof. Jane Halonen: I just chaired a committee for the American Psychological Association on what skills a psychology student should be able to do upon graduation. Those skills involve 1) knowing and applying psychological content; 2) scientific inquiry and critical thinking; 3) communication and psychological literacy; 4 values in psychology (appreciating empirical evidence; supporting the promotion of working with diverse people); and 5) professional development. Encouraging students to check out the document and think about how their classes have been preparing their skills would be a good idea. That document can be found at https://apps.apa.org/CommentCentral2/attachments/Site97-Undergrad%20Guidelines.pdf. Psychology students should be highly effective in evaluating claims about behavior, which is going to be valuable in any field they enter. Teamwork is another element that employers look for. Skilled technology use to clarify communication and manage data will also be increasingly important.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Prof. Jane Halonen: Psychology may be the most versatile undergraduate major you can have but the trick is knowing how to find jobs that focus on the skills that psychology majors have. So don't be shy about finding a mentor (a faculty member, someone in the career center, or a professional in the field) who can give you some pointers about what the life is like and whether your skills and attributes fit with the job you have in mind. To those ends, when I teach the capstone class in psychology, I find out what career the student hopes to pursue and I match them with someone who is successful doing that career for an hour-long conversation in which the student describes why they are ready to graduate and why they would be a good match to the profession. Students tell me it is a great opportunity to practice their job seeking skills and in some cases they have been offered jobs as a result of how well they presented what they can do.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Prof. Jane Halonen: This is a tough question because most students who go into psychology-related positions in human services are not going to be able to do much about negotiating a bigger salary. Often budgets in nonprofits are not very flexible. However, where students can hope to apply their psychology skills in business settings (e.g. human resources), salaries are going to be higher and there may be more leeway to leverage up salary. If you do attempt to renegotiate an offer, do so on the basis of having a clear and compelling success at the interview. Prepare for the interview by doing your homework on the nature of the company. Regardless of what you know already, be sure to ask intelligent questions of those who interview you. Dress to match how employees look in the work setting or a notch above. And whatever you do, don't take your parents along. Apparently, this is a growing trend for GenZ students and it doesn't play well. But another important note to keep in mind, entry level salaries are entry level salaries. Do great work and the overlords are likely to notice. In summary, psychology majors do an amazing range of professional activities with a psychology degree. The vast majority of majors enter the workforce rather than going on to graduate school; however, the skills students learn position them well to make great contributions in all kinds of workplace settings.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Timothy Ottusch Ph.D.: For folks graduating with a degree in Human Development and Family Science, first I would recommend just figuring out what they want to do. A degree in human development is broad, which is beneficial but also can be stressful with the amount of options. If they want to work right away, applying even before graduation is helpful, as they might be able to have a job lined up that by the time they officially graduate they have the ball rolling in a hiring process, so the delay in work is not too bad. Overall, it is finding a job in the area they think they would like, get their foot in the door, and see where it goes. Sometimes you see then if you like it, and if you like it, what training (MSW, counseling, etc.) might you need to keep moving up the latter.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Timothy Ottusch Ph.D.: I think the skills needed now and similar to what will be important soon. So much of it comes down to a foundational mix of accurate understanding of human development (as opposed to misunderstandings through myths, etc.), good critical thinking skills, and communication skills.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Timothy Ottusch Ph.D.: This one I'll less confident in asking, aside from advocating for yourself in the interview process for pay
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Paul Datti PhD, CRC, HS-BCP: In my experience as Program Director of Scranton’s Counseling and Human Services Program, as well as being a board member of the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (the only accrediting body for human services educational programs), I can tell you that it's really about helping others. That’s what we do! Our students tend to gravitate towards the care of others, and they appreciate that they have been trained well. Part of our program’s mission is to train self-reflective practitioners, competent caregivers, and community leaders, and we believe we are successful at that. Some potential downsides can include long and/or unpredictable work hours, large caseloads, and potential for burn out. For the latter, however, it should be noted that our program (as well as others), train students on how to not only help others to recognize, prevent, and address burnout, but themselves as well.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Paul Datti PhD, CRC, HS-BCP: Human services practitioners provide services to clients in a wide variety of settings, such community mental health agencies, rehabilitation programs, adoption agencies, and residential programs (including for individuals with disabilities, homeless shelters, and those for at-risk youth), among others. They often assist clients and families in identifying and obtaining monetary and other benefits, social and community services, and other resources, as well as assist with developing and implementing programs to prevent and address social issues and individual client problems. Depending on the job and site, they may assess clients' psychosocial and/or physical needs, determine appropriate interventions, visit individuals and families in their homes, or assist in group settings, among other things.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Paul Datti PhD, CRC, HS-BCP: Graduates of The University of Scranton’s Counseling and Human Services program, as well as other similar educational programs, tend to have significant success upon graduation. At Scranton, typically about half to two-thirds of our graduates go on to graduate school, mainly in professional counseling or social work, but some also go on to programs in public administration, applied behavior analysis, child life care, and even law school. The remainder tend to soon get jobs in the field, in positions such as behavioral health technician, community health assistant, rehabilitation aide, child advocate, psychiatric or mental health technician, social work assistant, and more. According to OnetOnline and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this area are expected to exponentially grow over the years and are considered “bright outlook” occupations.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Leann Mischel PhD: First, NEGOTIATE. Many people think that the first offer is final. It rarely is. Do not be afraid to negotiate. The worst thing to happen is that the company will tell you they have made you their best offer. Also, do not be afraid to add things into the negotiation that are meaningful to you. There are many things that are negotiable that will not be offered in the first round. Think about adding things like moving expenses, housing, travel expenses to find housing, stock options, early vesting, signing bonuses, etc. Second, once in the job, always act and dress for the job you want rather than the job you have. Find a mentor in the workplace and figure out what has made them successful. Third, learn about the entire company, not just your role. This will allow you to understand how all the parts of the company work together and will increase your promotion opportunities. Fourth, NEGOTIATE (again). Even when you are moving up in the company, you still have opportunities to negotiate. The first offer is often not the last and it never hurts to ask for more.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Leann Mischel PhD: Network, Network, Network. Don't just add people to LinkedIn, be sure to stay in touch with them. Send them updates once in a while, ask how they are doing, recognize their successes, try to get together occasionally, in general, find a way to stay on their radar without going overboard. Even the people you think can't help you might be your biggest supporter and ally in the future. Always make good impressions.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Leann Mischel PhD: The soft skills will always be important. Communication, teamwork, and leadership skills should always be honed. In addition to those, it is important to keep up with technology and AI. It is no surprise that both of these are changing at lightning speed. Graduates need to keep in mind that these will make their jobs easier, not take their jobs from them. Utilize them to increase the quality and quantity of your performance and increase your efficiency.
Eric Gorton
Media Relations CoordinatorJames Madison University
Communication And Media Studies
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Eric Gorton: I cover a great deal of tips and specifics about prep for the world of work in several of my classes. The most important is to find a mentor (formal and informal), pay attention to what is going on around you and find a colleague you can ask questions that relate to everyday life and the culture of the organization. Show up! Be seen! Let your supervisor know what you are doing and especially when you are doing things well. Be curious. Dress for the job you want next. Build relationships inside and outside of the organization-this is critical everything is about relationship building. Create a I Love Me file that you can add to all year to prepare for your evaluations and to update your resume.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Eric Gorton: Soft skills like the ability to work with a team, ability to build and sustain relationships, expressing yourself well and being your own advocate will be critical. Being able to communicate what you do and what your organization does clearly, succinctly and with enthusiasm is also important. Showing that you can play well with others and have the best interest of the organization. Project Management skills are essential in any job.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Eric Gorton: Make sure you have done your research and know what the industry standard is. Be confident and assertive about talking about pay. Too many students are hoping they will get a good deal. Negotiation is critical. You must know your worth and know ask for a negotiation-even if it isn't just salary-work from home a few days a week ? Get a stipend for driving? Any other bennies?
Dr. April Bullock PhD
ChairCalifornia State University - Fullerton
Liberal Arts And Sciences, General Studies And Humanities
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. April Bullock PhD: BEFORE YOU GRADUATE, LOOK AT A VARIETY OF SOURCES, SUCH AS LINKD IN, TO DETERMINE WHAT SORTS OF ADDITIONAL SKILLS OR CERTIFICATIONS PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE KINDS OF JOBS YOU WANT HAVE. THIS SEARCH CAN ALSO HELP YOU TO THINK ABOUT HOW TO PACKAGE YOURSELF AND YOUR SKILLS ON YOUR RESUME AND COVER LETTER. IF IT IS POSSIBLE TO DO AN INTERNSHIP TO GET SOME RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE, DO SO. THIS HAS AN ADDED ADVANTAGE OF ALLOWING YOU TO TRY OUT YOUR POTENTIAL WORKPLACE TO MAKE SURE THIS IS THE PATH YOU WANT TO PURSUE. REMEMBER THAT YOUR LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION HAS GIVEN YOU A VARIETY OF SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE THAT ARE VALUABLE IN MANY DIFFERENT CAREER SETTINGS. THIS IS A POSITIVE ASPECT OF YOUR EDUCATION.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. April Bullock PhD: I THINK THAT THE ABILITY TO LEARN NEW THINGS AND TO KEEP UP WITH CHANGING TECHNOLOGIES AND WORKPLACE NORMS AND VALUES WITH BE VERY IMPORTANT IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS. LIBERAL ARTS MAJORS ARE GOOD AT LEARNING FROM A VARIETY OF TYPES OF SOURCES, FIELDS, AND WORLDVIEWS. THEY DEVELOP CULTURAL AWARENESS THAT SHOULD SERVE THEM WELL IN CHANGING WORKPLACES THAT VALUE DIVERSITY OF PERSONNEL AND OPINIONS. THE ABILITY TO LEARN AND ADAPT IS NOT ALWAYS THOUGHT OF AS A SKILLSET, BUT AS OUR SOCIETY AND WORKPLACES CHANGE MORE AND MORE RAPIDLY, IT IS A CRITICAL SKILL AND ONE THAT LIBERAL ARTS MAJORS HAVE DEVELOPED IN THEIR EDUCATION.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. April Bullock PhD: THE BEST WAY TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SALARY POTENTIAL IS TO BE ALERT TO OPPORTUNITES TO ADVANCE YOUR SKILLS AHEAD OF DEMAND, AND TO NOT SHORTSELL YOURSELF AND YOUR SKILLS. LIBERAL ARTS ARE OFTEN THOUGHT OF AS IRRELEVANT IN THE WORKPLACE, AS A MAJOR THAT HAS NO PRACTICAL APPLICATION. YOUR ADAPTABILITY, CULTURAL AWARENESS, AND BROAD KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORLD ARE KEY SKILLS. THE SKILLS IN CRITICAL READING, CLEAR WRITING AND CONFIDENT PUBLIC SPEAKING THAT YOU'VE LEARNED IN YOUR LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION CAN SERVE YOU VERY WELL IN MANY CAREER SETTINGS.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Alexsandra Sukhoy M.B.A.: I'd encourage current college students to take advantage of all the resources available to them: Career Services, professors, visiting companies, internship postings, class consulting projects, free-access business publications and so forth. This way, when the students do graduate, they've already had the opportunity to add points of differentiation on their Resumes, add new skills and network with industry professionals. Cumulatively this will help them stand out from their competition.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alexsandra Sukhoy M.B.A.: It will be a delicate yin/yang of human skills and technology. The best leaders know how to communicate and motivate others towards a desired outcome. This means conducting interviews, having one-on-one discussions, presenting to clients and delivering both good and bad news to key decision makers. On the flipside, today's candidates must also know how to navigate technology. And this goes above and beyond being social media natives. It includes studying for and earning MS Office certifications, creating a visual portfolio of graphics programs like Adobe and video/editing proficiency, and knowing how to read and then take action with Google analytics. One of the most critical tools today is AI, so staying current with those advances and paying attention to how the industry is using it becomes a critical candidate decision tree.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Alexsandra Sukhoy M.B.A.: The first realization any candidate, at any stage of their career, must make is that the baseline salary they negotiate then forms every sequential raise within that organization. So if you're able to negotiate $50K, vs. the $45K they first offer you, every annual raise will tie back to that $50K. If you accept the $45K, with an annual 2%, it will take you 4 - 5 years to get to that $50K. The way to negotiate that is to show with accomplishments that you already have the skills the job requires.
Dr. Stephanie Mitchell
Professor of HistoryCarthage College
History
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Stephanie Mitchell: A better question to ask yourself is: How much money do I need to give a life with dignity to myself and the people I love who will depend on my salary? Then, how can I earn that much money? A quick look at different fields will give you a sense of average salaries in different parts of our economy, and that kind of information should be a variable to incorporate as you pursue your vocational exploration and discernment. It's not the only variable, but it's an important one. Others include whether you are good at that kind of work, whether you enjoy it, and whether you think it serves the common good, which is another way of asking whether you think you would find the work meaningful. At Carthage, we know that earning enough money is an important part of living a good life, but it isn't the only part. A purposeful life is the one you will find is worth living.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Stephanie Mitchell: At Carthage, we don't believe in shortcuts. The most important skills are the ones that are future-proof. Most parts of our economy are going to be changed in ways that are hard to anticipate, so the best thing to do is to make yourself as smart and versatile as possible. That means no shortcuts. Just as an athlete can't expect to build strength, flexibility, or stamina without doing exercises that build those capacities, you won't be able to build creativity, expression, or intellect without reading hard books, pondering hard questions, and writing hard papers. If you do the work, with integrity, you will get smarter. The market will always reward the real thing.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Stephanie Mitchell: When I talk with Carthage students about vocational exploration and discernment, I think the most important thing for them to know is that most people's paths aren't straight. Everyone will have at least three vocations over the course of their lives, corresponding to three separate spheres: domestic, economic, and civic. The best way to seek these vocations with integrity is through experience, with confidence. Start anywhere, form meaningful relationships with people who have jobs you find interesting, and check in with yourself from time to time to see if you like the path you're on, or whether you should make a change.
Dr. Toni Whitfield
ProfessorWhat Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Toni Whitfield: I cover a great deal of tips and specifics about prep for the world of work in several of my classes. The most important is to find a mentor (formal and informal), pay attention to what is going on around you and find a colleague you can ask questions that relate to everyday life and the culture of the organization. Show up! Be seen! Let your supervisor know what you are doing and especially when you are doing things well. Be curious. Dress for the job you want next. Build relationships inside and outside of the organization-this is critical everything is about relationship building. Create a I Love Me file that you can add to all year to prepare for your evaluations and to update your resume.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Toni Whitfield: Make sure you have done your research and know what the industry standard is. Be confident and assertive about talking about pay. Too many students are hoping they will get a good deal. Negotiation is critical. You must know your worth and know ask for a negotiation—even if it isn’t just salary—work from home a few days a week ? Get a stipend for driving? Any other bennies?
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Toni Whitfield: I cover a great deal of tips and specifics about prep for the world of work in several of my classes. The most important is to find a mentor (formal and informal), pay attention to what is going on around you and find a colleague you can ask questions that relate to everyday life and the culture of the organization. Show up! Be seen! Let your supervisor know what you are doing and especially when you are doing things well. Be curious. Dress for the job you want next. Build relationships inside and outside of the organization—this is critical everything is about relationship building. Create a I Love Me file that you can add to all year to prepare for your evaluations and to update your resume.
Dr. Raymond Doe PhD
Associate ProfessorLamar University
Psychology
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Raymond Doe PhD: Employers are expecting graduates to have some internship, a workplace related project, or a solution-based work for an organization.
A work-ready graduate will therefore have the degree plus the skills employers are looking for and willing to pay for.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Raymond Doe PhD: These transferable or readiness skills keep making the list: Problem solving, Collaboration, Creativity, and Professionalism. A Psychology degree aims to accomplish these in your personal and professional life.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Raymond Doe PhD: Show problems you have solved and how it fits into the work tasks you will be doing in the organization. Do not hesitate to negotiate for the price the industry is paying for a graduate that is work-ready with competencies that are transferable.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Maria Barbero Ph.D.: Interdisciplinary majors go into a vast an array of fields and industries. Every student's journey is different. My advice to my students is that they must be able to translate the skills and content they've learned through their majors into language that is meaningful to employers in their desired field. This takes practice and preparation, it requires taking time to reflect on their courses, experiences, and internships and think about how these translate into skills and knowledge necessary for specific jobs. The great thing about being an interdisciplinary major is that it will be hard for others to place them in a "box" in terms of what they can bring to the table. However, the flip side is that it's up to students to effectively communicate why they deserve a seat at the table. Additionally, interdisciplinary majors have a unique strength, they can navigate different fields and are adept at and comfortable with crossing disciplinary boundaries. In my view, this positions them well to be bridge builders in different industries, to communicate to varied audiences, and to address problems that require collaboration across difference. I think the students who can make the case for this unique strength can have a great deal of success on the job market.
Matthew Maroon
Chair of the Marketing DepartmentBrigham Young University - Idaho
Business, Management, Marketing, And Related Support Services
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Matthew Maroon: Soft skills. More and more tools are becoming simpler to use and more automated. People entering the workforce need to know that things like strong communication/collaboration skills, ability to give and receive feedback, having a "growth" mindset to improve and finding ways to add value to wherever they are, are becoming invaluable skills for many employers. There will always be some level of training that happens in a new job for hard skills, but soft skills can determine whether a hiring manager wants to spend 40 hours a week with someone.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Matthew Maroon: Networking. Having a strong network before and during your time as a professional will enable opportunities that wouldn't be available otherwise. Networking shouldn't be superficial or disingenuous, it really should be about making friends with people in your industry and trying to learn from the people around you.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Matthew Maroon: Don't let labels define you. You are entering the workforce as "Gen Y" or "Gen Z" which for many hiring managers means something negative. Combat the stereotype by being the type of candidate who showcases strong work ethic and the ability to get things done with limited hand holding. Those "old school" attributes are what hiring managers are having a hard time finding with many new graduates.
Dr. Song Lee Ph.D.
Associate DeanWhat general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Song Lee Ph.D.: Get ready to articulate your abilities and potentials that will support their school, agency, or organization. Be realistic and know your market value and the field's market value. Shoot to bring the best for the best offers instead of shooting for the best offers before you bring your best.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Song Lee Ph.D.: Have faith in your journey. The first job may or may not be your dream job. Those jobs that are less exciting could be stepping stones to your career and finding a position that will eventually suit you.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Song Lee Ph.D.: The ability to work with others in person or via telecommunication will always be important and prevalent. To advance in your career successfully with fulfillment, the ability to work and support others will help you gain support during difficult times and to seek better opportunities.
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Lori Poloni-Staudinger PhD: I would let them know that education in the social sciences has prepared them well for the job market. They have learned the skills employers of today seek. The critical thinking, oral and written communication skills they have learned in the classroom are directly transferable into the workplace. They ability to communicate across different, respect diverse viewpoints and engage in civil discussion will serve them well in their future careers. They have been taught how to think critically and this skill will allow for resilience throughout their careers.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Lori Poloni-Staudinger PhD: Do not be afraid to advocate for your own worth. Do your homework and understand going rates in the field and if possible in the organization in which you seek employment. If salary increases are not possible, consider other aspects of compensation that may be important to you and ask for this. Practice your ask-with a mentor, family or friend-- before your negotiation.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Lori Poloni-Staudinger PhD: Over the next 3-5 years, employees will need to be able to engage in strong critical thinking as well as strong communication skills. They will need to have information literacy and be able to critically evaluate information from multiple sources. They will also need to be able to communicate effectively across difference and celebrate and embrace diversity as a way to reach better outcomes and decision.
Christopher Stone
Wichita State University
Human Resources Management And Services
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Christopher Stone: Maximizing salary potential in HR begins with specialization and certification. Gaining credentials such as SHRM-CP or PHR can significantly boost your marketability and salary prospects. Specializing in high-demand areas of HR can also set you apart. But what truly makes a difference is demonstrating the impact of your work-how you contribute to your organization's success, be it through enhancing employee engagement, improving retention, or streamlining HR processes. Don't shy away from negotiating your salary and benefits; armed with research on industry salary norms and a clear articulation of your value, you can make a strong case for yourself. Lastly, pursuing higher education, like a master's degree in HRM, can open doors to higher-paying and leadership roles.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christopher Stone: Looking ahead, the HR domain is on the cusp of some significant transformations, especially in the next three to five years. Data analytics, for example, is becoming a game-changer. Being able to navigate through HR metrics and analytics will be a sought-after skill, as it enables data-driven decision-making. Proficiency in technology, particularly HR Information Systems and emerging tools like AI in talent management, will be paramount. Moreover, as strategic partners, HR professionals will need to sharpen their strategic thinking skills, ensuring HR strategies not only align with but also propel business objectives. And let's not overlook change management-navigating organizations through change will be a vital competency.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Christopher Stone: If I were to share some wisdom with graduates stepping into this field, it would be to adopt a mindset geared towards continuous learning. The HR landscape is constantly shifting, with new technologies, laws, and workplace dynamics emerging all the time. To stay ahead, it's vital to keep learning-whether through professional development courses, certifications, or staying abreast of industry trends. Equally important are soft skills like communication and empathy, which are the bedrock of effective HR practices. Understanding the intricacies of the business you're part of is another cornerstone; it helps in tailoring HR strategies that align with the company's goals. Networking, too, is invaluable. Connecting with peers and mentors can open up new avenues for learning and career opportunities. And, of course, the hallmark of a great HR professional is their integrity and discretion-qualities that are non-negotiable in our field.
Dr. Cassandra Chaney Ph.D.
J. Franklin Bayhi Endowed ProfessorLouisiana State University and A&M College
Social Work
What general advice would you give to a Human Resources Technician?
Dr. Cassandra Chaney Ph.D.: There are three ways that graduates can maximize their salary potential. First, new graduates can do research with the purpose of finding out what other people with comparable education and skills are earning. Being armed with this knowledge will strengthen their bargaining power when they are interviewing or would like to be considered for a promotion or increase in salaray. Second, new graduates can add to their knowledge and skillsets by taking workshops and seminars related to areas of which they have no knowledge or limited knowledge. New graduates can make their desire to learn known to their supervisor as well as their interest in attending any workshops or seminars that will make them more effective in their jobs.
What Human Resources Technician skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Cassandra Chaney Ph.D.: Soft skills will become very important in the coming years. Unlike hard skills, which are measurable (related to numbers) and generally obtained through formal education and training programs, soft skills are personality traits that help employees effectively interact with others and succeed in the workplace. People with soft skills are especially valued by employers because they increase the efficiency and productivity of workplaces. New graduates with soft skills are generally positive and optimistic, are strong communicators, have a high work ethic, work well with others, minimize conflict between coworkers, empathetic, respectful, patient, are skilled at active listening, perform tasks that may not necessarily be their job, and makes everyone in the team feel appreciated, valued, and understood.
What will help Human Resources Technicians increase their earning potential?
Dr. Cassandra Chaney Ph.D.: I have 10 pieces of advice for new graduates who are starting their careers. First, new graduates should remember that professionalism isn't just based on having a degree, but rather what they consistently do. Second, new graduates must recognize that they are being watched by their supervisor and coworkers even if they do not think they are being watched by these individuals. This means that they must always be aware of what they say and how they behave in the professional setting. Third, new graduates should be confident in what they know. They are degree holders who have attained content knowledge in a particular field. Cockiness is off-putting while confidence influences supervisors to see them as responsible, mature, and trustworthy. Fourth, new graduates must remember that it is perfectly okay to start at an entry level position and work their way up. A "work my way up" attitude shows maturity, patience, and humility, traits that are lacking among many young people. Fifth, new graduates should get in the habit of being someone that their supervisor and coworkers can always depend on. This is important because this increases their value to the organization. Sixth, new graduates must recognize the importance of dressing for success. If a new graduate looks successful, they will unconsciously emit a "successful" attitude. Seventh, new graduates should be appreciative and grateful for the opportunities that they receive. New graduates that express this gratitude verbally and in writing will set themselves apart from other workers. Eighth, new graduates should appreciate the various forms of diversity in today's workplaces and to get along well with everyone, which of course, includes people who are different from them. Ninth, new graduates must recognize that time is not finite. Everyone gets the same 24 hours in a day, so time management is one of the keys to success. Finally, new graduate graduates must always treat everyone that they meet with respect, dignity, and honor.