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Job outlook for directors, human resources and administration in the United States
Director, human resources and administration job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected director, human resources and administration job growth rate is 7% from 2018-2028.
About 12,600 new jobs for directors, human resources and administration are projected over the next decade.
Director, human resources and administration salaries have increased 13% for directors, human resources and administration in the last 5 years.
There are over 87,692 directors, human resources and administration currently employed in the United States.
There are 49,395 active director, human resources and administration job openings in the US.
The average director, human resources and administration salary is $104,409.
Are director, human resources and administration jobs in demand?
Director, human resources and administration job and salary trends over time
Director, human resources and administration jobs over time
Director, human resources and administration job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 87,692 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 82,463 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 81,515 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 75,607 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 71,779 | 0.02% |
Average director, human resources and administration salary over time
Director, human resources and administration salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $104,409 | $50.20 | +3.9% |
| 2024 | $100,533 | $48.33 | +3.0% |
| 2023 | $97,588 | $46.92 | +2.9% |
| 2022 | $94,849 | $45.60 | +3.0% |
| 2021 | $92,084 | $44.27 | +2.4% |
Director, human resources and administration jobs by state
Most common states for directors, human resources and administration
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 183 | 26% |
| 2 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 703 | 22% |
| 3 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 620 | 21% |
| 4 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 592 | 15% |
| 5 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 676 | 14% |
| 6 | Louisiana | 4,684,333 | 636 | 14% |
| 7 | Mississippi | 2,984,100 | 415 | 14% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 99 | 10% |
| 9 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 648 | 9% |
| 10 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 124 | 9% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 59 | 9% |
| 12 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 419 | 8% |
| 13 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 59 | 8% |
| 14 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 851 | 7% |
| 15 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 590 | 7% |
| 16 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 515 | 7% |
| 17 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 300 | 7% |
| 18 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 190 | 7% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 76 | 7% |
| 20 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 43 | 7% |
Most common cities for directors, human resources and administration
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Westport | 1 | 4% | $121,594 |
| 2 | Eugene | 1 | 1% | $98,955 |
| 3 | Fort Lauderdale | 1 | 1% | $89,217 |
| 4 | Gaithersburg | 1 | 1% | $120,225 |
| 5 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $101,279 |
| 6 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $109,329 |
Director, Human Resources And Administration job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of director, human resources and administration experts
Portland State University
The University of Tennessee - Martin
Angelo State University
Temple University
University of Richmond
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Grand Valley State University
Kansas State University
Zones, LLC
NC State University
LIU-Brooklyn
California State University - Dominguez Hills
The Pennsylvania State University
Texas A&M International University
Pacific Lutheran University
Coe College
Hartwick College
Fort Hays State University
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Talya Bauer Ph.D.: HRM professionals play a strategic role in aligning HR practices with organizational goals, ensuring a positive and productive work environment, and fostering a culture of employee engagement.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Talya Bauer Ph.D.: Entering the Human Resource Management (HRM) field can be an excellent career choice for several compelling reasons, especially in today's dynamic and evolving workplace. Glassdoor.com ranks HR management as one of the nation’s top five career opportunities based on average starting salary, job satisfaction, and employer demand.
What will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration increase their earning potential?
Talya Bauer Ph.D.: Individuals like many things about being an HRM professional, such as having diverse responsibilities, good pay, opportunities to build relationships, and feeling like they are making a positive impact. Some challenges include handling difficult employment situations and conversations, administrative burdens, navigating organizational politics and multiple stakeholders, and dealing with employee grievances and terminations.
Dr. Sean Walker
Professor of Behavioral ManagementThe University of Tennessee - Martin
Business Administration, Management And Operations
What will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration increase their earning potential?
Dr. Sean Walker: Find skills that make you more marketable and invest in yourself through formal education or advanced certifications. Possessing additional knowledge and skills will make you a more attractive candidate.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Alex Johnson: We're researching an article for graduates entering the job market with a degree in Human Resources Management, and hope to quote a professor at Saint Peter's University.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alex Johnson: We are looking for insights into what Human Resources Management majors can expect at their jobs. I have two weeks before the article is due :)
What will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration increase their earning potential?
Alex Johnson: I hope you are well. Would you be able to assist with the request?
John Wegner
Professor, English and Modern LanguagesAngelo State University
English Language And Literature
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
John Wegner: New workers must be willing to advocate for their own workloads and accomplishments. Too often managers privilege charisma over competence. When we start our career, we should keep updating our resumes and continue logging accomplishments. Be willing to volunteer for tasks others might avoid. Learn all the aspects of your job possible so you can work effectively on multiple teams within the organization. That knowledge and achievements can become part of a personnel file or portfolio for promotion or a new job search. The fastest way to increase your salary is to prove you are in demand by getting other job offers.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
John Wegner: As artificial intelligence begins dominating and replacing technological skills, people who can display empathy, critical thinking skills, creativity, and innovatively adapt data to appear to diverse audiences will be increasingly in demand. In many ways, the advent of the AI world, I suspect, will put Humanities majors in more demand than ever. While I don't think AI will replace coders or data analysts, we should note that machine learning is quickly leveling the playing field with regards to those specific skill sets. AI, though, can not use the data creatively or in ways that connect to another human being.
What will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration increase their earning potential?
John Wegner: Cliched though it may sound, I tell our soon-to-be graduates that 'Hustle beats talent unless talent hustles.' As new employees in any job, we encourage our graduates to find a mentor, ask questions, and be willing to work hard enough to display your skillset. Employers are often a bit skeptical about humanities majors, but an English major should have the ability to understand her audience and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people. Most importantly, English majors need to explain how their skills reading complex novels and poetry translate to analytics, sales, management, and other professions.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
Daniel Goldberg: Having an in-depth knowledge of how the most important areas of production operate.
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
Daniel Goldberg: a) Understanding the legal aspects of Human Resources as well as the nuances of the organization you work for or to which you are applying.
b) Knowing how to lead and work productively within the culture, vision, and mission of organizations.
What soft skills should all Directors, Human Resources And Administration possess?
Daniel Goldberg: The ability to communicate effectively, openly, empathically, and directly (without ambiguity) while making sure members within the organization understand their roles.
What skills will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration earn the most?
Daniel Goldberg: If you can show that you have mastered the above skills, you should be in a good position to get a well-paying position.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
John Barr: The most important hard/technical skills are experience and training in such areas as workplace investigations, overseeing various employee programs and documentation related to leaving, handbooks, job descriptions, wages, benefits, hiring, and terminations, developing a diverse workforce, and training in the future of the workforce.
What skills will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration earn the most?
John Barr: Companies are focused on their bottom line. If you can help the company improve its performance by hiring and retaining quality candidates while demonstrating an ability to save it money by dealing with workplace conflicts and legal requirements before these explode into litigation, you should be well placed to earn a high level of compensation.
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
John Barr: Skills such as an ability to conduct workplace investigations, develop a diverse workforce, and an ability to help a company meet its various goals while complying with its legal obligations are vital aspects of any resume.
What soft skills should all Directors, Human Resources And Administration possess?
John Barr: The ability to get along with people. HR managers frequently must resolve workplace conflicts, investigate incidents of harassment or discrimination, or deal with employees who are in danger of losing their job. A critical soft skill is managing these issues when emotions may be running high while focusing on protecting the company's interests and advancing its various goals.
Anthony Nyberg
Department Chair and Professor, Program Director, Master of Human ResourcesUniversity of South Carolina - Columbia
Management Department
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
Anthony Nyberg: The most important skill for HR managers as they enter the workforce is professionalism (and everything that goes into this, including being on time, doing what one says they will do, etc.)
This shows up on resumes by having held responsible positions for an appropriate period, leading to positive recommendations from prior employers, teachers, leaders, etc. The item that stands out most on a resume is a strong HR internship.
What soft skills should all Directors, Human Resources And Administration possess?
Anthony Nyberg: In general, the "soft" skills are actually the hardest, and the most important of these skills involves strong communication and an ability to work in teams - most jobs and all companies require people to work together, and this is a very challenging skill, but imperative in the modern workforce.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
Anthony Nyberg: HR, like many work environments, is driven by using data to address challenges. This requires a strong analytical foundation.
What skills will help Directors, Human Resources And Administration earn the most?
Anthony Nyberg: The skills that lead, in the short term, to the highest earnings involve analytical skills. The skills that lead to the highest earnings over time include professionalism and strong interpersonal skills. If you can master both, you have created the foundation for a very strong career in HR.
Dan Wiljanen Ph.D.
Affiliate of Practice Professor, SHRM Student Chapter AdviserGrand Valley State University
Seidman College of Business
What hard/technical skills are most important for Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
Dan Wiljanen Ph.D.: Knowledge of the HR Discipline
-Personnel and Human Resources - Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
-Administration and Management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
-Law and Government - Knowledge of laws, government regulations, and executive orders.
-Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for training design, implementation, and evaluation.
Technology Skills
-Enterprise resource planning ERP software
-Human resources software - Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS)
-Office suite software
-Project management software
-Web page creation and editing software
-Word processing software
What technical skills for a Director, Human Resources And Administration stand out to employers?
Anthony Ferraro Ph.D.: Transferable skills sounds like a cliche but it is one of the strengths for our students which allows a diverse range of career options both within our field and outside of it. Some of the most consistent skills that we attempt to foster and seem to be important for prospective employers include: strong interpersonal communication skills including listening and advanced technical writing, understanding of program development and evaluation, community outreach, etc. While I wouldn't quite consider these skills, many of our students demonstrate high levels of empathy, have firm knowledge of social issues and human development processes, as well as a baseline understanding of the policymaking process in the U.S. and within our state. This combination of skills and knowledge lends itself well to work with nonprofit organizations, public and private agencies, and work with the cooperative extension network most directly. However, many of our students also use these skills to move into health-related professions, including occupational therapy and nursing, as well as counseling professions including marriage and family therapy, school counseling, social work, etc. Many students will complement their undergraduate studies in HDFS with graduate degrees that will further enhance their competitiveness and/or provide the technical training, certification, and/or licensure needed.
How have salaries changed over time for Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
Adrianne Keeler: Salaries in our field have gotten more and more competitive, and have continued to rise. Not only with the base wage, but really with the commission side of earnings. To remain a competitive employer in our industry, companies have made the commissions uncapped and thrown other incentives into the wages as well.
Thomas Byrnes
Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Marketing Faculty Adviser, American Marketing AssociationNC State University
Department of Business Management
What soft skills should all Directors, Human Resources And Administration possess?
Thomas Byrnes: Obviously, employers are seeking candidates from certain disciplines such as marketing, finance, supply chain, accounting, etc. But, what distinguishes the candidates is their enthusiasm, passion and strong interest in the company they are interviewing with. There is an expression that I have heard from several recruiters: "we hire for attitude and train for ability". It is vital that candidates have a thorough understanding of the company they are interviewing with, that they come prepared with questions for the recruiter and show a strong interest in working for that company. Obviously, the students have to demonstrate strong organizational skills, excellent communication skills, listen well to the questions they are asked and simple things such as "eye contact". This is important even in virtual interviews!
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Directors, Human Resources And Administration?
Herbert Sherman Ph.D.: The coronavirus has changed the way in which people work as well as the type of work that people will be performing by accelerating the use of technology to facilitate more employees working in a virtual setting and therein reducing the need for traditional office space or even shared workspace. Graduates with a degree in human resource management will need to not only be comfortable working remotely in a non-office environment but need to truly find a balance between work demands (which are now 24/7) and the ability to lose oneself within the comforts of one's home surroundings. Work-life balance will not only be of the utmost import for employees but for HR professionals as well.
Secondly, HR graduates, even if working in a traditional office setting, will be expected to be well versed in the use of HR analytics and HRIS packages (i.e. UKG Pro, TriNet, BambooHR, UKG Ready, Workday Human Capital Management, Ceridian Dayforce, Oracle Cloud HCM, ADP Workforce Now, Oracle PeopleSoft HCM, Paychex Flex, and Zenefits) which integrate HR functions including job analysis and job design, recruitment and selection of employees, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and employee retention. HR graduates should also be quite comfortable using computer hardware and software that facilitate virtual meetings and conferences - in person job interviews may become the thing of the past and replaced with Zoom, Google Hangouts, Cisco Webex Meetings and even Skype or WhatsApp.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Thomas Norman: Remote interviews will become the norm.
Flexible work arrangements will expand and many jobs will become 100% remote forever. Managers will need to learn how to keep remote employees motivated.
Resilience (aka anti-fragility) will compete with the focus on optimal efficiency.
Employers will focus like never before on diversity and inclusion at all levels up to the C-Suite and Board of Directors.
Employers will increase the amount data collection on employees and their work.
More full-time jobs will be replaced by freelancers, temporary and other contingent workers. A 2020 Gartner survey of 800 HR professionals found that 32% of organizations were planning to replace full-time position with contingent workers to reduce costs.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Thomas Norman: Your career should be viewed as a marathon and not a sprint. It is as OK to experiment with starter jobs as it is to start college without declaring a major. The goal is make work fit your goals and dreams and review your progress annually. Learn which types of companies fit you along with which types of jobs and occupations feel good. Internship, Job Shadowing and Informational Interviews are tools to get a feel for a job and an employer. My students work on an Odyssey Plan where they map out three very different career paths thinking through the resources, experience and education they will need over the next five years to reach a specific job. Then they rate each path in terms of how they compare in terms of earnings, happiness, coherence and their confidence they can achieve the goal. The next step is jump out of the nest and try one, reflect on the fit and try something new if things are not meeting your goals.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Denise Potosky Ph.D.: In order to effectively staff positions that are essential to the business, HR managers will need to pay close attention to the dramatic shifts and increased volatility we've seen in the job market over the past two years. During and immediately following the 2008 recession, the labor market was "loose," meaning that there were fewer job openings than there were people who could fill those positions. In the years prior to the pandemic, the labor market was relatively "tight" for many skilled positions in that there were more job openings than qualified job applicants. Many organizations focused on their internal labor markets to develop talent from within as a way to ensure staffing key roles. The pandemic has abruptly altered both internal and external labor markets, and the path forward is not always clear. Individuals who are seeking careers in HRM will need to bring a strong understanding of labor economics and staffing strategies in order to estimate and moderate fluctuating talent needs. Some creativity and fresh ideas for recruiting and developing employees who may need to step into new ways of working or step up to new roles would also help.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Denise Potosky Ph.D.: The landscape for human resource management has been changing rapidly, and there are some specific things someone who is interested in working as an HR manager could focus on during a gap year. Anyone who plans to apply for an HR role should prepare to answer the question, "What actions would you recommend to foster diversity and inclusion in this organization?" In order to answer this question, it is important to keep track of the changes to the legal framework for HRM, to develop assessment and data analysis skills that will enable HR managers to monitor and demonstrate progress toward diversity goals, and to participate in activities that enable HR job candidates to show that they can listen to different perspectives but also lead with character and empathy.
In addition, future HR managers could use a gap year to explore the various ways to design work arrangements and address the needs of a post-pandemic workforce. PPEs, social distancing requirements, and remote work arrangements are likely to continue for some time to come, and HR managers will need to balance policies and protocols with empathy and flexibility. For example, every college student experienced the lockdowns, safety restrictions, social distancing requirements, and shifts to online learning from a student's perspective, and they might not have had the opportunity to consider the university's or the faculty and staff's perspective. As we move out of the pandemic, organizations will likely try to optimize their new workflows and prepare to address the next big threat. A gap year could be used to review what worked and what didn't, where improvements are still needed, and how to integrate different vantage points during a change experience.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Denise Potosky Ph.D.: Prepare to lead. An article in HR Executive (Brooks, 2020: hrexecutive) observed that the COVID-19 crisis served as a "massive catalyst" for transforming the HR function in organizations. HR managers have had to figure out how to protect essential workers and shift to remote work where possible, develop protocols for infected and/or distressed employees and their loved ones, deal with layoffs, closures, and rapidly changing laws, and encourage everyone to pull together to fulfill the demands of the business while supporting employee well-being and culture of the organization. This is an exciting time to begin a career in HRM, and it is an exceptionally demanding field of work. Seek opportunities to lead change, champion new initiatives, and help others manage conflict and stress. If you want to be hired into HRM, you need to be able to show that you can take responsibility for implementing and revising solutions that others have supported and appreciated.
Kristi Yowell
Coordinator & Senior Adjunct Lecturer, Graduate Human Resources Management ProgramWhat are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Kristi Yowell: I think it goes without saying that the pandemic has forced employers to make overnight changes with regard to how business is conducted, including but not limited to where and how work is done. With much of the country working remotely during this time, it's a change we can expect to see continue post-pandemic. Employers have found that productivity has remained high, and in many cases, increased. Employers are discussing where they can continue to utilize remote workforces to reduce overhead costs as well as offer more flexibility to their workforce moving forward.
Continuing with the theme of flexibility, age-old policies and practices requiring employees to separate work and personal, such as managing parental responsibilities during working hours, have been challenged. Over the past 10 months, we've found that it's necessary for employees to simultaneously juggle these responsibilities - with access to childcare and in-person K-12 school schedule disruptions - and that, while exhausting, they are able to balance without the oversight of rigid policies. We've also all seen high unemployment rates and hiring freezes during the pandemic.
With news of the vaccine becoming available and additional guidance being released and clarified from the CDC, we can expect to see job restoration and new positions posted again as we head toward spring.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kristi Yowell: If we're discussing a gap year between high school and college, obtaining work experience can be very beneficial to understanding concepts and having additional context during college. Similarly, volunteering can be equally beneficial. Young adults can use this time to experience various professions as well as industries to begin understanding how they are the same and different, and where their professional interests may align.
A gap year (or several) between undergraduate and graduate studies can also be beneficial. Similar to the above, having an opportunity to join the workforce and have working experience to apply to graduate studies can help apply learning in a more practical sense.
Gap years or breaks in service can happen several times in a career - post-studies, between studies, parental obligations, and so on. Being and remaining engaged during that time is imperative - reading, learning, participating in learning and development events, volunteering, conducting information interviews, etc. These are all positive and proactive activities to engage in during these times.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Kristi Yowell: Be open and flexible! Hardly ever do I encounter a seasoned professional whose career has gone exactly as they expected. Rather, some of the most exciting and lucrative opportunities are unplanned. Unplanned does not mean unprepared. It's important to know your strengths, continue to learn - formally and informally, network, and be professionally engaged in professional associations, workplace committees and task forces, and so forth. It's through these engagements that we expand and grow and position ourselves for some of the "unplanned." When able, say "yes" to opportunities to engage, join, and collaborate.
Dr. John Kilburn Ph.D.
Associate Vice President for Research and ProfessorTexas A&M International University
Social Sciences Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Dr. John Kilburn Ph.D.: The use of technology and social media will continue to play an increasingly important role in getting all types of business done. Zoom meetings and multimedia interaction will be with us for many years.
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
Dr. John Kilburn Ph.D.: Communication skills have always been essential, but now people must be able to communicate by utilizing multiple forms of media. Also, in a networked society, speed is ever more important. A good employee must be able to think and address any issue rapidly. If the employee doesn't know the answer, they need to know how to find the answer or find the person that will take action to address any issues that arise.
Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for people who can manage and analyze data.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Directors, Human Resources And Administration to find work opportunities?
Dr. John Kilburn Ph.D.: In a wired society, there is a bit more flexibility in seeking early career professional employment. However, the trends seem to indicate that jobs are gravitating toward urban environments.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Laura McCloud Ph.D.: I expect that we will see all fields supporting health professions grow. Many of our sociology majors, as an example, are thinking of ways they can apply their skills in public health or medical administration. I also think we're seeing a very meaningful shift between specialized service jobs and non-specialized service jobs. This divide has been growing for decades, but the pandemic really highlights how service work is splitting between good and bad jobs. "Good" service jobs, like mine as a professor, can be done in different settings and situations and give me the resources and physical safety I need to carry on comfortably during this pandemic. Many of my students, on the other hand, work in "bad" service jobs while in college, like in retail and food service, which can't be done safely during the pandemic and do not provide them with the pay and benefits they need to be safe.
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
Laura McCloud Ph.D.: I think the pandemic will prioritize people's ability to work independently and to collaborate virtually. I don't fully believe we'll see the end of offices that some people are speculating, but we will see an increase in virtual work for many professions. Students who can communicate effectively in-person and online will be at an advantage when trying to get a job. I think experience with collaborative software will also benefit them. While they are missing out on some of the advantages of face-to-face learning, online learning gives students many opportunities for building digital communication skills.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Directors, Human Resources And Administration to find work opportunities?
Laura McCloud Ph.D.: If anything, experiencing the pandemic has shown me just how valuable the skill of understanding social behavior is. All industries would benefit from employing social scientists. That said, many of our graduates work in social services, and many social services will continue to see cuts post-pandemic, making it more difficult to find a position similar to what they were envisioning pre-pandemic. Geographically, it is very difficult for young adults to find a good location to start a career. Most areas with robust job markets have very high housing costs, and most areas with affordable housing have weaker professional job markets. I also see more of my students prioritizing being physically close to their friends and family after graduation, which may mean fewer will move far away for job opportunities than had pre-pandemic.
Dr. Vinh Nguyen Ph.D.
Professor of Business AdministrationCoe College
Business Administration Department
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Directors, Human Resources And Administration to find work opportunities?
Dr. Vinh Nguyen Ph.D.: HRM graduates can find jobs in a variety of organizations - small and large, for-profit or non-profit - and for the government. Of course, big cities will offer many more opportunities for new graduates than in smaller cities. However, big cities come with much higher competition for candidates to find jobs. Thus, there will be good opportunities across the U.S., especially when Covid-19 is gone!
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Vinh Nguyen Ph.D.: The job market does not look good right now with many people being laid off and unemployed. However, in a few more months from now when most people get the vaccine for Covid-19, the job market will become not only normal but also will grow quickly. There will be an abundance of opportunities for both organizations and prospective employees to meet and match. Thus, there is great hope for the job market across all industries that will begin soon in the year 2021.
What skills stand out on Director, Human Resources And Administration resumes?
Dr. Vinh Nguyen Ph.D.: The most important skills for new graduates, particularly for HRM majors, are adaptability and problem solving. The ability to continuously learn and change is critical during this crisis and with on-going technological advancements. A willingness to face any problems and to find creative solutions is also highly desirable in this changing world. Thus, people who are highly aware and possess a growth mindset will stand out in the labor market.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Ryan Ceresola: For students, with more job interviews taking place online, we will see an increasing need for job seekers to understand how to symbolically convey their interest and their desire for certain employees. We all know to dress up for a job interview, but now folks will need to dress up their backgrounds, make their screen names respectable, and learn the niceties that go along with interviews conducted online.
Beyond the presentation of self, as more work will move online, employers will look for those who show facility with technology and who can teach themselves new software systems. In the interview process, recent graduates will need to speak to their ability to work on projects without direct supervision, as many tasks will need to be accomplished away from in-person work.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ryan Ceresola: I always recommend to my students year-long service opportunities, especially because I have so many students interested in working in the criminal justice system, social services, or human resources. I am most familiar with the AmeriCorps program, having served two years thereafter my undergraduate education, but others include Peace Corps, Teach for America, and certain religiously affiliated service projects. These low-pay, high-reward opportunities are great ways to learn about our society's needs and to find out more about yourself and what you are particularly passionate about. They also serve as in-roads for many interested candidates to continue work for their particular organization after the year of service.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Ryan Ceresola: In the workplace, your value has never been about what grade you've received in a particular class. It is about your ability to think critically and in a nuanced way about projects and the needs of a certain employer. The best thing you can do to prepare yourself to conduct such work is to learn about your role from others in similar fields. Read through online forums, watch YouTube videos, and check out blogs of practitioners early on in your career. Even better - connect to individuals you know who are on similar career paths about what they've done and how they've been successful. By senior year of college, you should have the ability to search for information on your own, parse through it, and be able to interpret and learn from it on your own. Use those skills!
Gary Brinker Ph.D.
Professor of SociologyFort Hays State University
Department of Sociology
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Director, Human Resources And Administration job market given the pandemic?
Gary Brinker Ph.D.: The apparent increase in demand for health commodities and services. More restaurants will add take out and delivery. Computer communication skills (conferencing software, cloud management, multi-tasking of software) Many companies will transition to permanent at-home workers.
What Director, Human Resources And Administration skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Gary Brinker Ph.D.: Target a niche in healthcare, computer communication, or logistics and become fluent in the industry terms and operation methods. Be open to a new area you never considered before. Try to foresee the future.
What general advice would you give to a Director, Human Resources And Administration?
Gary Brinker Ph.D.: Be patient and know that, once the pandemic ends, the coming wave of retiring baby boomers (including yours truly) will create lots of high paying jobs with promising futures. Unfortunately, your taxes will be increased. Only have one kid!