How to Get into HR: A Practical Guide for Career Changers

A career in Human Resources can offer variety, progression and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to an organisation. HR professionals support employees throughout the working relationship, while helping businesses build effective teams, manage change and create positive working environments.

Although some candidates begin their careers in dedicated HR positions, this is not the only route into the profession. Experience gained within business support, administration, recruitment, operations or people-focused roles can provide a strong foundation for a successful transition into HR.

Understand Which Area of HR Interests You

HR covers a broad range of responsibilities, so it is helpful to understand where your interests and existing experience may fit.

An HR Assistant or HR Administrator might support employee records, contracts, onboarding, recruitment processes and general enquiries. More experienced HR professionals may progress into HR Advisor, HR Officer, HR Manager or HR Business Partner positions.

There are also opportunities to specialise in areas such as:

• Learning and development
• Recruitment and talent acquisition
• Employee relations
• Reward and benefits
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• HR systems and people analytics

Researching different HR career paths can help you identify the most realistic entry point and the experience you may need to develop.

Recognise Your Transferable Skills

Many of the skills required in HR are developed in other professional environments.

Candidates moving from executive support, office management, administration or operations may already have experience handling confidential information, coordinating processes, communicating with different stakeholders and managing sensitive situations.

Strong organisation, attention to detail and discretion are particularly important. HR teams also value candidates who can build trust, communicate clearly and remain calm when addressing complex or personal matters.

When updating your CV, focus on evidence of these transferable skills rather than relying only on your previous job titles.

For example, you might highlight experience of:

• Coordinating employee onboarding or inductions
• Maintaining confidential records
• Supporting recruitment and interview processes
• Preparing contracts or employment documentation
• Answering policy-related questions
• Organising training or employee events
• Supporting performance reviews or appraisal processes
• Working with senior leaders and employees at different levels

Look for Opportunities in Your Current Role

You may be able to gain relevant experience before formally moving into an HR position.

Ask whether you can support an upcoming recruitment process, employee engagement initiative, training programme or onboarding project. Office Managers, Team Assistants and Executive Assistants frequently work closely with HR teams and may be able to take responsibility for selected people-related activities.

Even limited exposure can strengthen your CV and provide useful examples to discuss during an interview.

Consider Relevant Qualifications

Professional qualifications are not essential for every entry-level HR role, particularly where a candidate can demonstrate strong transferable experience. However, studying towards a recognised qualification can show commitment to the profession and help develop your knowledge of employment practices and HR processes.

The CIPD is widely recognised within the UK HR profession, with different qualification levels available depending on your experience and career goals.

Before enrolling, consider the types of role you are targeting and review current job descriptions to understand whether a particular qualification is commonly requested.

Be Realistic About Your First Move

Your first HR position may involve a sideways move or a temporary reduction in seniority. This does not necessarily mean taking a step backwards.

An HR Assistant or HR Administrator role can provide direct experience of employee lifecycle processes, policies and systems. Once you have built this foundation, further progression may become more achievable.

Temporary and contract assignments can also offer a valuable route into HR. They may allow you to gain practical experience, work with an established HR team and demonstrate your ability in a new professional area.

Tailor Your CV and Interview Examples

A general CV may not clearly communicate why you are suited to HR. Tailor each application to the position and reflect the language used in the job description where it genuinely applies to your experience.

Your profile should explain your intention to move into HR and summarise the strengths you would bring. Avoid focusing too heavily on what you have not yet done. Instead, show how your existing experience prepares you for the responsibilities of the role.

During interviews, be ready to explain:

• Why you want to work in HR
• What you understand about the role
• How your previous experience is relevant
• What steps you have taken to prepare for the transition
• How you approach confidentiality and sensitive conversations

A clear and well-researched explanation will usually be more convincing than a general interest in “working with people”.

Build Relationships Within the HR Profession

Speaking to HR professionals, specialist recruiters and people working in your target roles can help you understand the market and identify realistic next steps.

At VWA, we recruit across a range of HR positions, from HR Assistant and HR Administrator opportunities through to HR Advisor, HR Manager, HR Business Partner and HR Director appointments. Our Consultants can help candidates understand how their experience may transfer and where additional development could strengthen their prospects.

A move into HR may not happen immediately, but a focused approach can make the transition achievable. By identifying your transferable skills, gaining relevant exposure and targeting the right entry point, you can begin building a rewarding long-term career within the profession.

How VWA Can Support Your HR Career

VWA has extensive experience recruiting HR professionals across a range of industries and seniority levels, from HR Assistant and HR Administrator roles through to HR Manager, HR Business Partner and HR Director appointments.

Our Consultants can offer honest guidance on your transferable skills, suitable entry points and how to present your experience effectively.

Explore our HR opportunities or get in touch with the VWA team to discuss your next move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move into HR without previous HR experience?

Yes. Candidates can move into entry-level HR roles from administration, business support, office management, recruitment and other people-focused positions. Employers will usually look for relevant transferable skills, a clear reason for making the transition and evidence that you understand the responsibilities of the role.

Do I need a CIPD qualification to work in HR?

Not every HR role requires a CIPD qualification, particularly at assistant or administrative level. However, a relevant qualification can demonstrate commitment and may support future progression. It is worth reviewing the requirements of the roles you are targeting before deciding which course to take.

What skills are most important for an entry-level HR role?

Important skills include organisation, discretion, communication, attention to detail and the ability to handle confidential information. Employers may also look for administrative experience, strong systems skills and confidence working with employees and senior stakeholders.

What is the best first HR role for a career changer?

HR Assistant, HR Administrator and People Coordinator roles are common entry points. The most appropriate role will depend on your existing experience. Candidates with recruitment, onboarding, office management or employee support responsibilities may already have skills that align closely with these positions.

Can temporary work help me move into HR?

Temporary and contract roles can provide practical HR experience and exposure to different systems, processes and working environments. They can be particularly useful for candidates who need direct experience to complement their transferable skills.

How should I explain a career change into HR at an interview?

Explain why HR interests you, what you understand about the position and how your previous experience is relevant. Use specific examples involving confidentiality, communication, organisation, recruitment, onboarding or employee support. You should also mention any training, research or practical experience you have undertaken to prepare for the move.

Considering a career in Human Resources? We're here to help - get in touch today: recruit@vwa.com / 020 7225 1888.