How To Get a Human Resources Job Without Experience (2025 Guide)
So, you’re eyeing a career in HR and you are looking for human resources jobs, but you’re stuck wondering how to get in without a mile-long list of qualifications. Maybe you’re drawn to the way HR professionals get to shape company culture, manage employee relations, and make real organizational impacts. Trust me—HR is a fantastic field for people who enjoy working with others, love problem-solving, and want a meaningful role that touches every corner of a business. But breaking in without direct experience can feel a bit like scaling a wall without a ladder, right? Not impossible, but you’ll need some strategy.
If that’s you, you’re not alone. HR jobs are booming. Right now, Human Resources positions are projected to grow at around 10% through 2025, which means opportunities are out there if you know how to look. The good news? The path into HR isn’t as rigid as it may seem. Whether you’re a recent grad or making a career pivot, I’ll show you some ways to get your foot in the door, even if your resume doesn’t scream “HR experience.”
1. Understand What HR Roles Really Entail
One thing I’ve noticed as an HR professional (and now someone who helps others land these jobs) is that a lot of applicants don’t really know what HR involves. At its core, HR is about people management—but that means a lot of different things. Most entry-level HR jobs, like HR coordinator roles, involve a good chunk of administrative work: data entry, onboarding new hires, helping employees with benefits questions, and supporting recruiting efforts.
It might sound less glamorous than you’d expect, but here’s the flip side: these jobs put you right at the center of how a company operates. You’ll work with people across departments, handling everything from employee relations to compliance with employment laws. There’s a lot of variety in HR jobs, so if you like a mix of tasks (and don’t mind wearing a few hats), you’ll probably thrive.
2. Decide on a Path that Works for Your Background and Budget
Not everyone needs a master’s degree to land a Human Resources job. While I loved my graduate program, it was a big investment, and frankly, most entry-level HR roles don’t require it. Less than half of HR positions even need a bachelor’s degree, and those that do typically look for related fields—think psychology, business, or sociology. But don’t sweat it if that’s not your major. Plenty of HR professionals have degrees that aren’t directly related but made it in by highlighting relevant skills.
If you want to skip the degree path, one of the smartest options is focused HR training. There are reputable programs that teach practical skills like onboarding, benefits administration, and compliance, all without requiring previous experience. Look for programs that offer hands-on projects so you can prove to employers you know your way around essential HR tasks.
3. Leverage Your Transferable Skills—They’re More Valuable in Human Resources Than You Think
One of the biggest misconceptions about breaking into Human Resources is that you have to start from scratch. Not true! HR requires a unique set of soft skills—communication, empathy, and problem-solving—that many of us have picked up in other roles. For example, if you’ve been a teacher, you already know how to manage different personalities and maintain confidentiality. If you’ve worked in customer service, you’re used to handling inquiries and complaints, which is huge in HR.
Here’s a tip: On your resume, focus on the soft skills and any people-centric responsibilities you’ve had. Emphasize your ability to work under pressure, stay organized, and communicate effectively. If you’ve managed schedules, coordinated teams, or provided customer support, frame those experiences to show how they relate to HR. The point is to show you’re ready to hit the ground running without a ton of hand-holding.
4. Consider a Strategic Internship—Yes, Even If You’re No Longer in College
Internships aren’t just for college students. In fact, a lot of HR internships are open to anyone interested in making the career jump. Interning in HR is a great way to build foundational experience without committing to a full-time position. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with experienced HR professionals who can give you insights and possibly even recommend you for jobs down the line.
If you’re worried about unpaid internships, know that many companies are starting to pay their interns, especially in competitive fields like HR. Check out internship listings from large companies with structured HR departments, as they often have paid positions. And remember, sometimes a short-term sacrifice in pay can be worth it if it helps you build experience quickly. Think of it as an investment for future human resources jobs.
5. Invest in Professional HR Certifications and Training Programs
Not all HR training programs are created equal, but some can really set you apart. Look into certifications like the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or programs like those offered by Course Careers. These are often faster and less costly than full degrees, and they provide a structured way to learn HR essentials. Plus, employers love to see candidates who have committed to their career path by investing in professional development.
I created a course with Course Careers specifically to help people get their first HR job, so you might want to check it out. The course is built around real HR projects, which makes it highly applicable in interviews since you can talk about your experience as if you’ve already been in the field. And since Course Careers works directly with employers, they often have partner companies ready to hire graduates from the program.
6. Polish Your Resume and Practice Professional Communication
Your resume is crucial for getting Human Resources jobs, especially when you’re new to the field. You want to translate your past experiences into HR-relevant terms. And don’t overlook the importance of communication in your job search itself. HR is a people-focused role, so hiring managers are hyper-aware of how you present yourself in emails, cover letters, and interviews.
Here’s a surprising tip: double-check every email you send to a potential employer. A small typo or an overly casual tone can stand out in a field that emphasizes professional communication. Your communication style reflects your ability to handle delicate situations and high-stakes information, which is central to HR. Take your time, and treat every interaction with potential employers as a chance to show them you’re ready for an HR role.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to dive into HR with confidence. Whether you’re pivoting from another field or starting fresh, Human Resources jobs are accessible with the right strategy and mindset.