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Looking for advice while I search for a new role. Level 5 qualified, with 8 years experience as Standalone Generalist.

Claire

Hello all

I am really hoping someone in the community might have some pearls of wisdom. I have been a standalone HR generalist role for 8 years in the charity sector. I am unashamedly people focused and strongly believe people are a organisations biggest asset, look after your team and the organisation will reap rewards. I believe in "prevention, not intervention" when it comes to employee wellbeing and mental health. I believe in good employee engagement, diversity and inclusion. But finding a organisation where I fit the bill is proving impossible. 

I took the opportunity and a big leap of faith by volunteering for redundancy when the charity I worked for faced financial hardship. I believe it is a real opportunity to join a new organisation, experience a different sector and hopefully be part of a wider HR team so I can learn and grow in my career. 

I am aware I have much to learn and have looked at lots of different HR roles. 

Though my success rate at being invited to interview is high, sadly getting over the line in a interview is just not working out for me.  

I have asked for feedback each time so I can get some insights, learn and develop my technique. I have completed CPD training and joined webinars where I knew I had gaps. Still no luck. I am very aware that at times it is just down to personality and fit. 

My feedback has been varied; no global experience, no experience in the sector I applied for (even though I got to interview), I am too people focused, I am too nice and the organisation has very strong managers, I am aiming to low, I am stretching too far, I wont be content and will move on, I am a perfect culture fit but... 

As every interview I have had is with HR professionals I thought I would ask if any of you can give me some advice and guidance.. What are people looking for? 

Thank you for taking the time to read.. 

Parents
  • Good luck in your career search

    I am sure no one here (or very few people) would argue with much/anything in your first paragraph. But....the key is how you say it. It maybe just me but it almost came across as too much and too passionate (and yes you can be in an interview) and that is probably where the feedback on being "too nice" or "tough managers" or even too "people focused" comes from.

    Whilst we all believe (to a greater or lesser degree) in all those things an interview isn't always the time to be declaring our personal manifesto from the rooftops. A more balanced and nuanced approach of balancing needs of employee with needs of business, with managing difficult situations, with understanding that sometimes pragmatism as well as vision is needed may get you further in some processes.

    You will have some challenges moving from third sector as well. Its possible but not always easy - so even more reason to ensure you aren't playing to a potential stereotype of third sector HR managers.

    Having said that you need to be you and there will be a role out there for you if you keep going. But finessing your message may open up more doors rather than trying to bash them down with your passion.
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  • Good luck in your career search

    I am sure no one here (or very few people) would argue with much/anything in your first paragraph. But....the key is how you say it. It maybe just me but it almost came across as too much and too passionate (and yes you can be in an interview) and that is probably where the feedback on being "too nice" or "tough managers" or even too "people focused" comes from.

    Whilst we all believe (to a greater or lesser degree) in all those things an interview isn't always the time to be declaring our personal manifesto from the rooftops. A more balanced and nuanced approach of balancing needs of employee with needs of business, with managing difficult situations, with understanding that sometimes pragmatism as well as vision is needed may get you further in some processes.

    You will have some challenges moving from third sector as well. Its possible but not always easy - so even more reason to ensure you aren't playing to a potential stereotype of third sector HR managers.

    Having said that you need to be you and there will be a role out there for you if you keep going. But finessing your message may open up more doors rather than trying to bash them down with your passion.
Children
  • in reply to Keith
    Agree with Keith, and remember the guidance offered many times on these pages, that anyone who describes themselves as a "people person" probably has the wrong idea about what HR is. This may not be what you mean, but make clear you understand the function, and also that you understand that businesses may need to make tough decisions which you will have to support and drive - being "unashamedly people focused" might not give your employer confidence if they're having to make redundancies for example.