Starting a career in HR has never been easier, thanks to a wealth of free and interactive learning resources. Begin by building a solid foundation with beginner-friendly courses on platforms like OpenLearn and LinkedIn Learning. Gain hands-on experience by volunteering for HR tasks and completing specialised modules on Skillshare or FutureLearn. Expand your expertise in niche areas with courses from edX and Udemy, while strengthening analytical and tech skills through Google Digital Garage and HubSpot Academy. Connect with professionals via CIPD and LinkedIn groups to stay informed about industry trends, and enhance your credentials with certifications like CIPD Level 3 or HRCI’s aPHRi. The roadmap below provides valuable tools and guidance to help you start your HR career with confidence.
1. Build Foundational Knowledge in HR
Objective: Understand the basics of HR principles, laws and practices.
OpenLearn by The Open University : Courses such as "Developing your skills as an HR professional" provide a solid foundation.
Alison: Free courses like "Diploma in Human Resources".
LinkedIn Learning (Free month trial): Explore beginner HR courses like "HR Fundamentals".
Coursera - Business (*look for 'Free' on the top right of courses offered): Many HR-related courses have interactive quizzes.
2. Gain Practical Experience in HR Tasks
Objective: Apply HR knowledge to real-world tasks.
Offer to help your management team with basic HR activities like scheduling, recruitment or onboarding.
Platforms like "Skillshare" and "FutureLearn" often provide free, short modules focused on specific tasks such as interviewing techniques or performance reviews.
3. Deepen Knowledge with Specialised Topics
Objective: Specialise in areas like employment law, employee relations or diversity and inclusion.
edX: Free audit access to courses like "People Management."
Udemy (Free Courses): Search for niche HR topics.
Choose courses with interactive simulations or scenario-based learning to practice solving HR issues.
4. Build Analytical and Tech Skills
Objective: Learn to use HR analytics tools and software.
Google Digital Garage: Offers free courses in Data Analytics (Αναλύσεις δεδομένων) that are relevant for HR metrics.
HubSpot Academy: Free courses on Communication and Reporting Tools.
Enroll in Excel for HR Professionals (available free on platforms like YouTube or Udemy’s free section).
HRCI’s learning platform: Offers Mock Tests and Practice Modules.
5. Join Professional Networks and Associations
Objective: Build a network and stay updated on industry trends.
CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development):
Many resources are free, like webinars and downloadable guides. Qualifications and Learning
Student membership offers networking and career guidance at a reduced rate.
LinkedIn Groups: Join HR-specific communities like "HR Professionals UK".
6. Pursue Certification
Objective: Achieve professional status and enhance employability.
Free Pathways:
OpenLearn: Gain Certificates of Completion for free.
Alison: Offers Free Diplomas and Certificates in HR.
After gaining experience, pursue internationally recognised low-costcertifications such as:
CIPD Level 3 Certificate in People Practice Foundation Qualification.
HRCI Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHRi).
7. Seek Entry-Level HR Roles
Objective: Transition into a full-time HR position.
Update CV to highlight:
Skills learned from free courses.
Experience gained at 2 above (e.g., conflict resolution, scheduling).
Certifications or micro-credentials earned.
Apply for roles like HR Assistant or Recruitment Coordinator.