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Choosing between HR path or L&D

Bobbie

Hello, 

I am looking for some advice regarding the decision of which direction to take my career. 

I am currently studying for my CIPD Level 3 Diploma in Human Resources, and have recently started in my first entry level HR role. Unfortunately this role does not provide the general HR exposure and experience that was promoted to me at interview with very little progression opportunity. 

Whilst thinking about my career ahead I have been in a dilemma as to whether I should remain within the HR field or branch into the L&D area. Obviously this would require further entry level study, all of which I am self-funding. I already have a BA Hons in teaching with Qualified Teacher Status which may support a career in L&D. I am very keen at this stage in my life to be learning and progressing and striving for higher level roles (and a greater earning potential).  Many of the higher level L&D roles I have seen appear to pay exceptionally well but I am concerned regarding the progression available. I am aware that within HR there are so many different aspects that have the potential for specialisms and climbing the ladder. 

Unfortunately it is not currently financially viable for me to undertake the L3 and L5 courses in both HR and L&D. 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Bobbie 

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  • Hi Bobbie,

    I kind of fell into specialising in L&D after gaining experience in generalist or operational HR roles in a few different organisations for a few years.

    I personally feel that this has helped me as I could talk about real experiences when delivering courses on such topics as absence and discipline etc that my colleagues who haven't done any HR work before, could not. When I was dong a generalist HR role, I was constantly being asked to deliver training (my colleagues all hated doing it) and I quickly discovered that it was my passion and I found it personally very rewarding (and still do!).

    I feel this gave me an opportunity to 'cut my teeth' in L&D to gain some 'live' experience. I chose after a few more years of working in a generalist HR role to specialise in L&D and have been doing so now for 13 years. Some people said I was crazy as the only L&D roles I could apply for were seen by many as a step back in my career, but I was determined that it was worth doing and taking a risk. 13 years on, I have no regrets at all. My path isn't necessary right for everyone, or for you, so my advice to you would be do what feels right to you. Not every employer is looking for specialist L&D qualifications, and in some cases being Chartered and having an HR background has given me the edge over other candidates. I wish you well whatever path you chose.

    Elaine
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  • Hi Bobbie,

    I kind of fell into specialising in L&D after gaining experience in generalist or operational HR roles in a few different organisations for a few years.

    I personally feel that this has helped me as I could talk about real experiences when delivering courses on such topics as absence and discipline etc that my colleagues who haven't done any HR work before, could not. When I was dong a generalist HR role, I was constantly being asked to deliver training (my colleagues all hated doing it) and I quickly discovered that it was my passion and I found it personally very rewarding (and still do!).

    I feel this gave me an opportunity to 'cut my teeth' in L&D to gain some 'live' experience. I chose after a few more years of working in a generalist HR role to specialise in L&D and have been doing so now for 13 years. Some people said I was crazy as the only L&D roles I could apply for were seen by many as a step back in my career, but I was determined that it was worth doing and taking a risk. 13 years on, I have no regrets at all. My path isn't necessary right for everyone, or for you, so my advice to you would be do what feels right to you. Not every employer is looking for specialist L&D qualifications, and in some cases being Chartered and having an HR background has given me the edge over other candidates. I wish you well whatever path you chose.

    Elaine
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