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Transitioning from Military HR to Civilian - which course should I complete??

Steven

Good Morning,

I am close to the end of my military career and I have been an administrator for the duration of my 22 year career, although for a spell we were know as HR Administrators my understanding is that HR in the real world is very different.  I am looking at completing the CIPD Level 5 HR Management qualification but am unsure of what the best course for me will be.  I have looked at a number of options and I think my preffered option is a part time taught course which conisists of 8 x 2 day workshops over a 14 month period (with Chysos). However, my dilema is that I will have left the army (only by a month or so) before I qualify using this option (I can't start the course until Jan as I am currently overseas).  How difficult (clearly this is dependent on how quickly I absorb the information) would it be for me to complete the qualification through ICS and doing it online? 

All advice would be greatly appreciated as this is a huge step for the next chapter of my life.

Thanks

Steve  

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  • I've just finished reading all the responses and - as usual - the advice is excellent. However, I must disagree with all those who have cast doubt on the usefulness of a CIPD Level 5 in obtaining a first job in HR. The qualification confirms that the individual has shown commitment to a career in HR and has worked to obtain a solid, relevant knowledge base on which to begin (or continue) that career. In your case, Steven, I believe this will be invaluable in your transition from military into civvy street.
    From a short list of two candidates, I would choose Steven Assoc CIPD, over a non-qualified candidate every time!
    Good luck with your ongoing career!
  • in reply to Sue Eakin
    Thanks Lesley, I really appreciate your comment, especially as some of the comments did make me wonder whether this would be the right course for me and indeed if a career in HR would be for me. Although Military HR is very different, I am very much a people person and despite the Military being a big part of my life for the last 21 years, I'd like to think I can easily adapt to the real world, people are people, treat them well and that is half the battle. Thanks again. Steve
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  • in reply to Sue Eakin
    Thanks Lesley, I really appreciate your comment, especially as some of the comments did make me wonder whether this would be the right course for me and indeed if a career in HR would be for me. Although Military HR is very different, I am very much a people person and despite the Military being a big part of my life for the last 21 years, I'd like to think I can easily adapt to the real world, people are people, treat them well and that is half the battle. Thanks again. Steve
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  • in reply to Steven

    Hi Steven, I was interested to read your post as I was in the same situation 10 years ago.  Leaving as a WO1 after 22 years with a Level 7 ILM and Level 5 in Admin Management; I'm only now just starting Level 7 full HR qualification but could have done it years ago.  The experience assessment route might be great for you, depending on what postings you've had.  Alternatively undertake Employment Law and maybe other smaller stand alone courses that are different to being in the Military.  I have found that being a veteran stands you in good stead for employment due to your attributes of loyalty, dependability and independence anyway.  Being able to put CIPD or 'working towards' helps enormously if you decide to apply for HR positions.  The experience you've gained in your military career already gives you the knowledge of people management and managing difficult situations.  The hardest thing I found converting to civilian from military was having to be less direct!  Everything else you've done along the way within AGC and the military will be a bonus to civilian employers.