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Postgraduates, masters and MBAs are seldom a prerequisite when applying for a HR role; however those candidates who have these extra qualifications are at a definite advantage, say HR recruiters.
As a result of the economic downturn many HR professionals have decided on or are considering using the quiet time as a chance to return to study. But the question of how much more employable an MBA or masters is going to make you remains.
According to HR recruiters, postgraduate studies will help an HR practitioner attain a position more easily, particularly at a higher level – but an MBA, masters or post graduate in a well-known university is not the only and best option.
According to David Owens, managing director of HR Partners, having these extra qualifications not only shows expertise in a certain area, but also demonstrates the candidate's willingness and determination to learn and improve their skill set. This is part and parcel of what Owens describes as the “tier mentality” within many organisations.
"A lot of the senior people in organisations have done an MBA," he said. "So if they're interviewing a potential HR director who has an MBA, that candidate will come across as having the same interest in their personal development as they do. There is often a tier mentality: that if the CEO and CFO have an MBA, if the HR director does too, they will fit right in."
For this reason, online and remote learning should not be ruled out, said Owens. It displays, he said, self determination and demonstrates the candidates' motivation. "Getting and MBA through distance learning takes a lot of motivation and discipline and i personally have respect for people who tough it out through distance learning," said Owens. "It generates equal respect among those who are assessing the candidates".
Other avenues such as joining a professional body are also recommended by recruiters as alternative to an MBA or postgraduate course.
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