Human resource (HR) consulting is needed for a variety of reasons within organizations. Human resource consultants can be internal or external. Internal HR consulting is a fairly new concept and has become popular in recent history. Internal HR consultants develop and implement tools and streamline processes that attract and retain quality resources (Editorial Board, 2011). External human resource consultants date back as early as the 1940’s and consists of contracted external resources with specific skillsets to augment an effort within an organization. These efforts can include change management related to a project or acquisition, training and reporting. (Editorial Board, 2011).
Certification for the Discipline of Consulting
Given the many roles that an HR consultant can fill, there are a variety of certifications that can augment an HR professional’s qualifications. The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) develops and administers several certifications that enhance the credibility of an HR professional. The certifications they offer include the Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR), Professional in learning and performance, among others (Retrieved from: http://www.hrci.org/our-programs/our-hr-certifications/?certificationPath=p2).
Education and Experience Requirement
Many of the certifications that are available for HR professionals, such as the PHR or the GPHR have a prerequisite of a Master’s degree or the global equivalent. Other certifications, such as the Senior Professionals in Human Resource certificate (SPHR) have a prerequisite of education and experience combination to qualify for the certification. If you have a Master’s degree you must also have 4 years of experience in an exempt-level professional HR role. If you hold a Bachelor’s degree, you must have at least 5 years of experience in an exempt-level
References: Editorial Board. (2011). Introduction to Human Resource Management (1st Edition) [Online version]. Retrieved from AIU Online Virtual Campus. Survey of Human Resources Mangement: MGMT315 - 1403B - 03 HRCI. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.shrm.org/hrdisciplines/consultants/pages/default.aspx