Getting into HR

Top tips on getting round the problem of not being able to get a job without experience, or the experience without a job

I recently finished a six-month maternity cover contract as a compensation and benefits officer. Prior to this, I worked as an HR administrator for 18 months. I'm looking for my next role in compensation and benefits. I have applied for roles and am getting interviews, but I am being told that, although I interview well, the role is too senior for my experience. Having only six months' experience in this area puts me in a position where some roles are too junior while others are too senior. I know I could add significant value to a team if I could get the chance to prove myself. However, as these roles tend to be fairly standalone, it seems companies only go for those people who have the exact experience already. How can I convince them I have the potential to learn quickly and add value?

I began work in a large retail company as a personnel assistant, from which I was promoted to assistant manager and then running my own HR department. I gained a wealth of experience in a fast-moving company. After two years – during which time I gained the CIPD core management qualification – I decided to resign from the company after maternity leave. I have since found a part-time job as a recruitment assistant. I’m now thinking about returning to full-time work and am particularly interested in employment law. I have looked into an advanced qualification in employment law, but would have to take out a loan to fund it. Which path should I take?

I graduated from university nearly two years ago and have been trying to get into HR ever since. The closest I have got is my current role, where I work as a recruitment co-ordinator for a recruitment agency. Can you offer any advice as to where to look for experience directly in HR - either paid or unpaid? I do have the transferable skills but companies seem reluctant to take me on, even at an administrator level.

You can't get an 'ology' in training but there are plenty of relevant qualifications to choose from. The question is: which ones make recruiters go weak at the knees?

Ed Moran talks about how he got into training and the qualities that are needed to make a success of it. And, what he learned from the trainer who gave up on a session.

HR director, food services, resourcing and development, Compass Group

Hugo Tucker is manager or Ortus

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A region by region look at working in HR in the UK. This month we investigate south-west England