People who meet the Society for Human Resource Management’s requirements are given the title of Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) (SHRM). Earning SHRM certification can greatly enhance a person’s career opportunities, as the title is highly valued most business executives worldwide. In order to become an SPHR, an individual must have at least a bachelor’s degree and several years of practical experience in the human resource field. A person can take the official certification exam if they have the necessary education and training.
A person interested in a career in human resources (HR) can prepare enrolling in a four-year university that is accredited. Many schools offer HR bachelor’s degrees, but if one isn’t available, a student can major in business administration or accounting instead. Labor relations, bookkeeping, and business planning are just a few of the topics covered in HR coursework. While still in school, many undergraduates apply for HR clerk positions in order to gain practical work experience. A person nearing the end of a bachelor’s degree program must decide whether to enter the workforce full-time or pursue a master’s degree in the specialty.
Most entry-level HR management jobs require only a bachelor’s degree, but an advanced degree can significantly increase a person’s chances of landing a high-paying position. The majority of master’s degree programs last two years, during which time students attend lectures and work on group projects related to labor management. Many schools assist students in locating internship opportunities to help them get their foot in the door of a professional career.
For the SPHR exam, bachelor’s degree holders must have at least two years of work experience, while master’s degree holders can apply with just one year of experience. Because eligibility requirements can change, it’s a good idea to check the SPHR website for the most up-to-date information. SHRM regulations are in place to ensure that employees are fully prepared for the comprehensive exam. An HR manager can apply online, over the phone, or in person at an approved testing center to take the SPHR test.
Even for seasoned HR managers, the SPHR test is widely regarded as a difficult one to pass. It includes sections on employee benefits, policy planning, business development, and risk management, among other topics. Enrolling in official test-prep workshops and purchasing SHRM-approved study guides and practice tests are two ways to prepare for the exam. Most employers are aware of the test’s difficulty, and anyone who passes it is frequently rewarded with a pay raise and opportunities for advancement.