For those considering a career in human resources, take note: like many other competitive professions, HR is changing full-tilt and it's imperative that you plan accordingly.

As mind-boggling as it may sound, simply obtaining a diploma or degree in business, commerce, or human resource management may not be enough to impress a potential employer. In fact, the latest gold standard for Canadian HR professionals is to earn the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation. Fortunately, doing so isn't an overly daunting task. It is, however, a time-consuming process that many HR leaders suggest adding to your to-do list. And according to Daphne FitzGerald, chair of the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations, the sooner the better.

In today's market, if you look at the ads for HR positions, there [are] more and more now asking for either the designation or a CHRP candidate, says FitzGerald. She notes that employers today are mainly looking for three things: a university degree, a successful result in writing the National Knowledge Exam, and three years of professional HR-related experience. Meeting these criteria will not only award you the designation, but a better chance of one day landing your dream job.

To degree and beyond

According to FitzGerald, the recommended degrees vary across each province, but Ontarians in particular can expect a stronger push for profession-specific education. University graduates now have the option to attend shortened and intensive post-graduate programs at colleges across the country; many of which offer co-op programs that can help students gain the relevant experience they need.

But what makes the CHRP designation so crucial to your professional success? The official CHRP website highlights an array of benefits, including the chance to gain expertise in the HR field, learn methods of managing complex HR issues, and prove initiative and commitment to the industry. Additionally, FitzGerald suggests CHRP candidates are often more successful at locating rewarding and professional entry-level positions.

The entry level positions [today] are much more interesting and, quite frankly, much more senior, says FitzGerald. You're actually doing the work of HR. Granted, you're not doing it at the same level as a manager, but you're acting more quickly in a specialist role in HR because a lot of the administrative and clerical aspects of HR [have] moved over to the HR system.

Many students are now benefiting from this good news. With his CHRP designation in sight, Peter Bartz has successfully solidified a full-time position as a compensation assistant for the Toronto Transit Commission, where he oversees the membership and certification program. His pathway to success includes a diploma in HR, a brief internship with TTC, and the recent decision to enrol in Work and Labour Studies at York University as a part-time student. He admits obtaining the designation can be a strenuous ordeal at times, but believes achieving it will lead to endless possibilities.

A younger workforce in HR

Bartz says he has seen a much younger set of managers enter the organization, and most have stressed the importance of expanding one's education.

The workplace is very cooperative in terms of helping people pursue their academic goals through tuition aids [and] flexible schedules says Bartz. They provide a lot of opportunities through the organization for you to further your education.

On whether pursuing the CHRP designation should be a top priority for all graduates, Bartz suggests doing your research. Maybe get in touch with [a] recruiting department and see if this is something that they really value, because this could really help you, he says. Do it immediately after graduation because the information is still fresh. I know it seems expensive at the time but it will actually make your life a lot easier having the course knowledge so soon.

FitzGerald suggests checking out HireAuthorityCanada.com for a list of available Ontario positions in the HR profession. The CHRP website also provides links to member associations across Canada, which anyone may contact for further inquiries on employment opportunities.

HR is always going to be in demand, says FitzGerald. You're always looking for top talent, people are always moving, and so you're always recruiting. You're always trying to select the people through your job evaluation program who are going to be the successors and the future leaders of the organization.