Want to know the best online courses to learn human resources? These are the most commonly used online HR courses to boost your confidence, increase your skillset, and make you the HR professional in demand.

Finding the right HR courses online to prepare for your human resources career can be confusing.  It can also be overwhelming and exciting at the same time.  When I first started my Human Resources career, there were far fewer options.

This post will teach you the best HR Courses and Classes to enhance your human resources skills as an existing HR Professional.

After learning about the best HR Courses and Classes to enhance your HR skills, you will gain confidence in your career, increase your skillset, and be qualified for more jobs or even a pay increase.

This post is all about the best HR Courses and Classes to enhance your skills as a Human Resource Professional.

Best Online Courses for Human Resources Professionals

 

1. Online Course #1 – Course Careers

Course Careers has courses for professionals pursuing careers in Technology Sales, Information Technology, Software Development, Data Analytics, UI/UX, Digital Advertising, and Human Resources. I wish Course Careers was around when I started my career!  It has 6-12 week courses that will teach you everything you need to know about human resources through its online course to ensure you have all the skills and knowledge you need to land an entry-level position.

 

2. Online Course #2 – HRCP Badges for HR Professionals

HRCP has so many courses that give you badges of completion that you can add to your resume or performance review. These badges start as low as $15 and include topics such as: HR Planning, Job Analysis, Job Description, Recruitment, Employee Relations, Employee Engagement, Performance Managment, Training and Development, Compensation, Employment Laws, Benefits, Labor Relations and soooo much more!  Most employers will either pay for these courses or reimburse you for the cost.

 

3. Online Course #3 – Coursera

Coursera has a wide range of courses for a number of career fields, including Human Resources.  Coursera has now grown to an international household name.  Coursera has courses for HR Associates, HR for People Managers, HR Analytics, Recruitment, DEI, Employee Relations and so much more!

 

4. Online Course #4 – Udemy

Udemy is another platform that really has a wide range of online courses for all career fields.  For Human Resources professionals, Udemy has nearly 8,000 courses that includes material on: employment laws, talent management, recruitment, workplace communication, DEI data, sexual harassment, learning and development and tons more.

 

Why do you need these online courses?

You need these online courses because they guide you through the foundation of your career skills.  Human resources (HR) is the backbone of any organization, and continuous professional development in this field is crucial. As businesses evolve and the workforce becomes increasingly dynamic, the demand for skilled HR professionals has escalated. HR courses and classes offer individuals the opportunity to comprehend the intricacies of employee management, from recruitment to retention. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including the fundamentals of HR, the legal framework governing employment, and the latest in HR technology and strategies.

For those starting in HR or aiming to increase their knowledge, there are beginner courses available that cover core concepts. These foundational courses are designed to guide learners through the essential components of HR duties.

Meanwhile, advanced courses target seasoned professionals eager to delve into strategic management, employee relations, and employee engagement. It is also important to understand HR’s role in shaping organizational culture and its impact on a company’s success.  Now, let’s dive into way to apply the knowledge that you learn from these courses into your work duties as a Human Resources professional.

Ways to use the knowledge from online courses

This will guide you through ways to use the knowledge from online courses and use that knowledge and/or skills in Human Resources.  Human Resources (HR) is a critical component of any organization, focusing on maximizing employee performance to meet the company’s strategic objectives. Online courses really help you to put your practice into play within the Human Resources career field.  This section outlines fundamental aspects of HR that are essential for businesses to understand and implement effectively.

Recruitment Process

The recruitment process is a strategic approach to finding and hiring the best possible candidates for a job. This usually involves creating a job description, advertising the role or attracting applicants, screening applicants, conducting interviews, and ultimately selecting the right candidate. Understanding the nuances of effective recruitment strategies and techniques is crucial to an organization’s success.

Employee Onboarding

Employee onboarding is the integration of new hires into the company. It includes familiarizing them with the organizational culture, clarifying their job roles and expectations, and providing them with the tools and information needed to perform their duties. A thorough onboarding process is pivotal for employee retention, satisfaction, and productivity.

Performance Management

Effective performance management ensures that employees’ activities and outputs align with the organization’s goals. It is an ongoing process that involves goal setting, regular feedback, performance evaluations, and the development of employees’ skills. Performance management can be enhanced with structured methods such as SMART goal setting, using OKRs and KPIs, continuous feedback mechanisms, and regular performance appraisals.

Legal Aspects of HR

Understanding the legal aspects of HR is crucial for ensuring that organizations comply with labor laws and regulations. These elements form the foundation for ethical and legal business practices in Human Resources.

Employment Law

Employment Law is a critical area within Human Resources that encompasses various statutes and regulations. Courses in this field cover significant laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, which sets minimum wage and overtime pay standards. They also delve into the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and anti-discrimination laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

• Key Legislation:
  • The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
  • The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
  • Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

Compliance Training

Compliance Training helps HR practitioners understand their role in maintaining compliance with employment laws. It provides insights on implementing policies that align with the law and how to conduct training for employees regarding their rights and responsibilities. The training typically includes content on how to properly handle employee relations and labor relations within the legal framework.

• Compliance Focus Areas:
  • Developing company policies
  • Employee and labor relations
  • Wage and hour laws compliance
  • Recordkeeping requirements

Advanced HR Strategies

Advanced HR strategies involve a deep understanding of business operations and the strategic role of HR in driving organizational success. These strategies extend beyond administrative duties, focusing on long-range planning and the effective management of change within an organization.

Succession Planning

In the realm of Succession Planning, it is essential for an organization to prepare to ensure a seamless transition and the sustenance of company performance. An eCornell strategic HR management course could enhance one’s competence in this area, allowing HR professionals to identify and develop potential leaders within the company systematically.

• Key Elements of Succession Planning:
  • Assessment of critical roles
  • Identification of potential successor candidates
  • Development plans for high-potential employees

Succession planning ensures that the organization is never left unprepared in the wake of an unexpected employment vacuum and maintains a stable strategic direction.  This can include employees of all ages and various tenures with the organization.

Organizational Development

Organizational Development (OD) is about aligning an organization’s strategies, people, and processes. The Michigan Ross Advanced Human Resource Executive Program addresses the complexities of global strategy and leadership brand, elements crucial to OD. These include an understanding of:

• Strategies for Organizational Improvement:
  • Cultivating a robust organizational culture
  • Implementing effective change management processes

OD plays a critical role in an organization’s adaptation to market changes and the overall improvement of performance efficiency and employee engagement. It sees human resources as not just a functional department but as a strategic partner in the organization’s growth and development.

Technology in HR

The integration of technology in HR has revolutionized how organizations manage their employees and has become an indispensable element of modern Human Resources management.

HR Information Systems (HRIS)

HR Information Systems (HRIS) serve as the backbone of technology in HR. These systems enable organizations to streamline HR tasks, from recruiting and onboarding to performance management and payroll processing.

For instance, AIHR offers Digital HR Courses that focus on equipping HR professionals with skills to implement and manage HRIS effectively.

Data Analytics in HR

Data Analytics in HR allows for evidence-based decision-making, giving companies a substantial competitive edge. Insights drawn from data can influence everything from talent acquisition strategies to employee retention efforts.

Online courses provided by platforms like Coursera deepen HR professionals’ understanding of data analytics within the human resources context, ensuring they can harness data to optimize HR functions.

Employee Relations and Engagement

In the field of Human Resources, courses that focus on Employee Relations and Engagement are vital for crafting a dynamic and responsive work environment. These courses delve into strategies for enhancing employee satisfaction and organizational productivity.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of any workplace. Effective conflict resolution courses equip HR professionals with the tools to mediate disputes and foster a culture of open communication. They explore methods such as active listening, empathy, and problem-solving to resolve conflicts constructively. For instance, learners can find comprehensive guidance on developing conflict resolution skills through practical, real-world scenarios.

Team Building

Team building is essential for nurturing collaboration and unity within an organization. HR courses cover various team-building techniques, from trust exercises to group challenges. They emphasize the importance of setting clear goals, recognizing individual team member’s contributions, and celebrating collective successes. Resources like LinkedIn Learning provide in-depth insights into structuring team-building initiatives that can lead to improved employee relations and a more engaged workforce.

Key Takeaways

• HR courses provide essential insights into managing today’s dynamic workforce.
• Legal and ethical considerations are a critical component of HR training.
• Advanced HR strategies encompass technology integration and employee engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When exploring the field of human resources, beginners often have a range of questions about how to start and what courses to take. This section aims to address some of the most common inquiries.

What are the top HR certification courses for beginners?

Beginners looking to gain a foothold in human resources can start with courses like HRCP, Mometrix, or Exam Edge.

Which subjects are essential in a Human Resource Management course?

An essential Human Resource Management course should cover employment law, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, and employee relations. Understanding these areas is crucial for effective HR management.

How can I start a career in HR with no prior experience?

To start a career in HR with no prior experience, individuals can consider taking entry-level courses, seeking internships, networking, a targeted resume showing transferrable skills, or positions that provide on-the-job training.

What are some reputable sources offering free online HR courses with certificates?

Reputable sources like the SHRM and Coursera provide a collection of free online HR courses with certifications to help develop necessary skills and demonstrate HR competencies to potential employers.

What HR training topics are important for a foundational understanding of the field?

Important HR training topics for a foundational understanding include employment laws, HR policies, recruitment processes, performance management, employee relations, and benefits administration.

Which HR courses are recommended for professionals after completing their secondary education?

After completing their secondary education, professionals are recommended to take courses in Human Resources Analytics, which is available through institutions like the University of California, Irvine, or targeted training in hiring, onboarding, and HR strategy to build upon foundational knowledge and specialize further.

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