When I first decided to pursue a career in Human Resources, I had a very clear (and completely unrealistic) picture in my head. I imagined myself effortlessly hiring top talent, planning fun company events, and generally being the workplace hero. What I didn’t expect was the emotional rollercoaster of employee grievances, the ever-changing world of labor laws, and the realization that HR is sometimes seen as either the fairy godmother or the villain, depending on who you ask.
If you’re thinking about stepping into the world of HR, or if you’re already in it and wondering, Why didn’t anyone warn me?—this one’s for you. Here are the things I wish I had known before starting my HR career.
A career in Human Resources can be both rewarding and challenging. HR professionals play a crucial role in shaping workplace culture, managing employee relations, and ensuring the smooth operation of an organization’s workforce. However, like any career, HR has its pros and cons. If you're considering entering this field, it's essential to be aware of both the advantages and challenges. Here are three things I wish I knew before embarking on a career in HR.
HR is More Than Just Hiring and Firing
Before I got into HR, I thought the job was all about recruitment and termination. Spoiler alert: It’s not. HR touches every aspect of a business—employee relations, compliance, benefits, performance management, industrial relations, and, oh yes, the occasional “please explain why your expense report includes a a group trip” conversation.
You’ll Need to Become a Walking Labor Law Encyclopedia
Think you can coast by without understanding labor laws? Think again. One wrong move and you could land your company in hot water (or the court system). You’ll need to know the ins and outs of employment legislation, collective bargaining agreements, and workplace policies like the back of your hand. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out—boom! A new amendment gets passed, and you’re back to studying.
People Management is Not for the Weak
People will cry in your office. They will vent, yell, and sometimes expect you to work miracles. HR is the bridge between employees and management, and that means navigating some tough situations. One day you’ll be coaching an employee on career growth, and the next you’ll be conducting a termination meeting. The emotional toll is real, so if you don’t develop thick skin and strong emotional intelligence, you’ll burn out fast.
Data and Metrics Matter (Yes, Even in HR)
If you think HR is all about “gut feelings” and “people skills,” let me introduce you to the world of HR analytics. Management doesn’t just want to hear that employee engagement is low—they want data to prove it. Expect to track turnover rates, retention numbers, compensation benchmarks, and absenteeism statistics. Excel will become your best friend (or your worst enemy, depending on your relationship with spreadsheets).
Building Relationships is Your Secret Superpower
HR is not just about enforcing policies, it’s about building trust. Employees need to feel comfortable coming to you, and management needs to trust your guidance. The best HR professionals are the ones who can balance empathy with strategic decision-making.
Business Acumen is Just as Important as People Skills
HR is not an isolated function, it’s a key player in business strategy. If you don’t understand how the company makes money, what drives growth, or how to manage budgets, you’ll struggle to make an impact. The best HR professionals think like business leaders first and HR specialists second.
Conflict Resolution Will Be a Daily Affair
If you thought HR was all about happy team-building exercises, let me introduce you to workplace disputes. Employees will argue. Departments will clash. And guess who gets to mediate? You. Strong conflict resolution skills will save you from endless headaches (and possibly a few lawsuits).
Not Everyone Will Like HR (And That’s Okay)
One of the hardest lessons to learn? Sometimes, HR is the bearer of bad news. Whether it’s enforcing policies, denying a request, or managing layoffs, you won’t always be the office favorite. It’s important to remember that your role is to do what’s fair and legal—not just what’s popular.
Some HR Departments Are Just Plain Terrible
Not all HR teams live up to the vision of being the champions of workplace culture and fairness. Some are disorganized, unsupportive, or simply ineffective at advocating for employees. You may encounter HR departments that fail to enforce policies consistently, turn a blind eye to toxic leadership, or prioritize company interests at the expense of employee well-being. If you ever find yourself in one of these teams, it’s a lesson in what not to do when you’re in a leadership role.
Continuous Learning is Non-Negotiable
HR laws change. Workplace trends evolve. Employee expectations shift. If you’re not constantly learning, you’re falling behind. Whether it’s taking professional courses, staying updated on legal changes, or attending industry conferences, keeping your knowledge sharp is crucial.
Self-Care is a Must
HR can be exhausting. Between handling grievances, managing compliance, and putting out workplace fires, burnout is real. Set boundaries. Take breaks. Find ways to de-stress. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and a burnt-out HR professional isn’t helpful to anyone.
HR is one of the most challenging yet rewarding career paths out there. It’s a role that requires heart, resilience, and a whole lot of patience. If you’re considering a career in HR, know this: it won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it.
Would I do it all over again? Absolutely. But I’d definitely go in with my eyes wide open and a much stronger coffee addiction.
If this resonates with you, we can help you get your foot in the door. Book a consultation at Book Now and get expert advice from a seasoned professional.
Written by:
TCR Staff Member
February 23, 2025