How to Become a HR Manager

Have you ever thought about a career in HR management? If you're just starting out, looking for an exciting career change, or aiming for a promotion, this guide is here to help you every step of the way. 

We’ll break down everything you need to know – the best HR qualifications, skills, job roles, and salaries - so you can confidently take your first or next steps towards becoming an HR manager.  

We’ll also talk about: 

• The top traits that make a great HR professional  

• Essential HR courses to help you get started – with or without a degree  

• How to get real-world HR experience  

• What a HR manager actually does day-to-day  

• Salary expectations and earning potential for HR managers 

• The future of HR management and where the industry is heading.  

Whether you're just exploring or already planning your career path, this guide is your go-to for navigating the HR journey with clarity and confidence. 

How to become a HR manager: Where to start 

To thrive in a career in HR, you’ll need a mix of people skills, organisation, and problem-solving ability.  

HR managers play an important role in hiring, training, employee wellbeing, and shaping company culture. It’s a dynamic and rewarding career path, and here’s how to get started.  

1. Get some experience in entry-level HR roles  

Believe it or not, lots of HR managers begin their careers as HR assistants or administrators.  

These roles can give you hands-on experience in recruitment, training, and employee relations - all essential for moving up! 

Alternatively, completing a recognised qualification, like a CIPD certificate or diploma, can help fast-track your progress.  

2. Take a CIPD qualification  

A CIPD qualification is highly valued in HR and can help you build industry-specific knowledge.  

At MOL, we offer CIPD-accredited courses at various levels:  

• CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate: For beginners or anyone starting out in HR 

• CIPD Level 5 (Associate Diploma): For people with some experience who want to advance to a senior level 

• CIPD Level 7 (Advanced Diploma): For senior professionals aiming to enhance strategic HR skills.  

These qualifications can take your HR career prospects to the next level, and they’re highly valued by employers too. 

Not sure which level is right for you? Read our ultimate guide to CIPD courses! 

3. Develop essential HR skills 

In addition to qualifications, every good HR manager needs strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills. You can build these through volunteering, CIPD HR courses, and networking. 

How long does it take to become a HR manager? 

The time to reach HR management will depend on your starting point.  

If you’re beginning with no experience, it could take a few years of study and hands-on work to reach management level. However, a CIPD-accredited qualification can help you get there faster.  

If you’re already in a HR role, completing a Level 5 or Level 7 CIPD course can help you move into management positions more quickly. 

How to become a HR manager without a degree 

A question we hear a lot is “can you become a HR manager without a degree?”  

The answer is yes! A degree isn’t essential to becoming a HR manager. Lots of successful HR professionals start in support roles and gain experience and qualifications along the way.  

HR CIPD courses are a recognised route into HR without the need for a university degree, and volunteering and networking can also help you get noticed by employers. 

Related: CIPD vs HR Degree: Which is Best to Kickstart Your Career? 

HR manager job description: What do HR manager positions involve? 

HR management roles can cover a lot of different responsibilities – so it’s no wonder they’re seen as the heart of any good business! 

HR managers are responsible for recruitment, training, employee relations, and ensuring compliance with employment law.  

The role can involve strategic planning, such as shaping workplace policies, and hands-on tasks like managing workplace disputes or implementing new training programmes. 

HR manager salary: What will you earn? 

HR manager salaries vary depending on location, experience, and industry.  

In the UK, HR managers typically earn between £35,000 and £60,000 per year, with senior roles offering higher salaries. Factors like the size of the company and additional qualifications can also affect your salary.  

HR managers can also receive benefits like performance bonuses and professional development opportunities. 

As you advance from entry-level to senior positions in your HR career, obtaining a CIPD qualification can significantly increase your salary. 

The best HR manager classes and qualifications 

When you’re aiming to step into an HR management role, getting the right qualifications can make a real difference.  

One of the best ways to make sure you’re ready for the role is by completing a CIPD-accredited course.  

At MOL, we provide flexible, industry-recognised CIPD qualifications that fit your schedule and set you up for success.  

Our CIPD HR courses cover all experience levels, so you can progress at your own pace, and they’re available both online and in-person, so you’ll have the flexibility to fit your learning around your own schedule.  

Completing a CIPD qualification with MOL means you’ll get hands-on, practical knowledge that’s up to date with what employers are really looking for. 

Take the next step with MOL 

HR management is all about balancing people skills with strategic thinking, and with the right qualifications and experience, you can begin a successful career in this rewarding field.  

MOL offers flexible, CIPD-accredited courses that fit your schedule and can help you move forward in your HR career. No matter whether you're just starting or looking to take the next step, these courses give you the practical knowledge and skills to thrive in HR management.  

Ready to get started? Check out MOL’s Human Resources CIPD courses today and get enrolled to join our community of learners!