Give graduates help with first step on the HR ladder

I agree with Sarah Brook (Letters, Personnel Today, 15 May) about HR being difficult to get into. I graduated from university last year with a 2:1 HR management and psychology degree, and I found that applying for jobs was a complete nightmare.

Most applications were asking for a CIPD qualification and three years’ experience. How is anyone starting out in HR going to get a CIPD or three years’ experience without a company willing to give a graduate a chance? Sometimes even doing a placement during university isn’t enough.

Fortunately for me, I found a local HR manager who needed help with HR activities and I jumped at it. I now have a full-time permanent role as an HR assistant and my future looks bright. I have realised that graduates need to start at the bottom.

Reaching the heights of HR may take a while, but it can be done with managers and an organisation that will support and develop new graduates.

Laura Dykes, HR assistant

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