Human resource practitioners’ advice graduates

Justicia Shipena

Most human resource practitioners say that some of the popular misconceptions about recruitment industry involves recruitment is easy – screening of every applicant for a position is important. A good resume should fit onto only two pages – it is important to highlight all skills, knowledge and experience on a C.V as it allows the recruiter to evaluate whether the position which was applied for is suitable to the candidate.

The job specification is not required and it is very important to advise the applicant beforehand what will be expected from them should their application be successful, thus a complete job description on the company’s website is crucial to all applicants.

Being an HR practitioner one is responsible for coordinating all HR related information sharing, provide HR related advice and assistance, coordinating recruitment, employee relations, HR administration and training activities.



Other duties also include coordinating performance appraisal, incentive and probation programs, liaise with HR related third parties, coordinate Affirmative Action plan execution, prepare and submit relevant HR reports and execute line management accountabilities

The human resource department further stated that if graduates have the drive to learn a new skill set and build knowledge there is no reason for them not to be ready for the job market.

However the HR department found out some of the common mistakes graduates make are applying for positions for which they have no knowledge, skills or experience. Thinking they are above menial work requested of them. Showing no initiative and not taking responsibility for what is expected of them.

The character traits one requires to become an HR practitioner are one needs to be excellent with your verbal and written communications skills, strong interpersonal skills and relationship management, strong problem solving abilities, strong conflict management skills and the ability to be objective and consistent.



Top ten tips on how to advance in the human resource department:

· Be empathetic

· Be ambitious

· Be trustworthy

· Take initiative

· Be a problem solver

· Always strive to do better

· Be persistent in pursuing your own career goals

· Be hardworking

· Be decisive in taking risks