Hi All,
Just need some advice from people who have done their level 7.
I've recently finished my level 5 and looking to do my level 7. I wanted to ask if there is any benefits into getting my level 7? Would it increase my pay scale or get into better positions?
Any experience/knowledge in this would be great!
I would advise to take a bit of time between Level 5 and 7. Minimum 1 year or so. You will find studying for Level 7 a lot more beneficial after you have accumulated some additional work experience.
I would always recommend the Level 7 but as Olga says worth waiting to solidify your knowledge and gain greater experience. That said, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen many job requirements specifically state a need for Level 7 over Level 5.
Level 7 is appropriate at the point you move - or are sufficiently experienced to move - to a role as an HR Business Partner or the manager of the HR function (whether managing a team or as a standalone HR lead for an SME).
So if you're already in a BP or management role in HR and have finished your L5, moving straight to L7 would be a good idea. If you're not, you should take time to synthesise your academic knowledge with practical experience and explore the gaps between them, expanding your portfolio of work.
If you're not yet working in HR at all, you should certainly not move on to L7.
It depends on whether you want to achieve a senior management post ultimately or possibly teach HR management in the future. It may give you options. A friend of mine has never worked in HR but did level 7 so she could teach on the CIPD course at the university.
