How to Break into HR in the UK: 5 Creative Steps

 So, you want to get into HR in the UK? Welcome to the world of CV reviews, people management, and unlimited cups of tea (you’re going to need it). But before you can dive into writing job descriptions and solving workplace dramas, let’s talk about how you can actually land that HR job—without losing your sanity along the way.

Here are 5 steps that could help you unlock the HR gates. Spoiler alert: it’s not all about having UK experience (though it helps).

1. Get Certified (And Make It Count)
You’ve heard it a million times: "Do you have your CIPD?" Yes, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development certification is often key to impressing UK employers. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a fully-fledged HR guru from day one.

Pro Tip: Start with the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice. It’s beginner-friendly and gets you the stamp of approval on your CV. Plus, you’ll get to use HR lingo in interviews—who doesn’t love some good old HR jargon?

2. Volunteer Your Way to the Top
If no one’s giving you a chance, create your own! Volunteering is one of the easiest ways to gain that all-important "UK experience." Whether it’s helping out at a local charity, working with small businesses, or even managing your football club's recruitment (yes, that counts), get some hands-on experience.

Pro Tip: Make sure to list your volunteer work like a pro on your CV. “Coordinated talent acquisition strategies for local organisations” sounds much fancier than “helped recruit volunteers for a fundraiser.”

3. Internships: Coffee Runs with Benefits
Think internships are just for fresh grads? Think again! Internships in the UK can open doors, even if you’ve already had a full-blown career elsewhere. Yes, you might have to make the occasional coffee run, but you’ll gain valuable experience in HR policies, recruitment, and more.

Pro Tip: Don’t just settle for any internship—choose one that aligns with your career goals. Even if you start small, the right opportunity could lead to something bigger. Plus, you’ll master the art of the perfect cup of tea, which is essential in UK HR culture.

4. Network Like a Brit (with a Smile)
Let’s face it: the “hidden job market” is very real in the UK. Sometimes, it’s about who you know, not just what you know. Networking events, LinkedIn, and even casual chats at a pub can lead to your next HR gig.

Pro Tip: Don’t just send random connection requests on LinkedIn. Personalize your messages, attend HR events, and don’t be afraid to reach out to someone for a “quick coffee chat”—it’s a thing here, trust me.

5. Tailor Your CV: The UK Edition
Your CV is your first chance to shine, and in the UK, employers expect a specific format. Keep it short and sweet (two pages max), focus on relevant HR experience, and don’t forget to highlight your soft skills.

Pro Tip: Make sure your CV includes keywords like “employee relations,” “performance management,” and “recruitment.” These are like magic words that make HR software smile at your application.

Breaking into HR in the UK can feel like trying to find the Queen’s corgis in Buckingham Palace—challenging but not impossible. With the right certifications, experience, and connections, you’ll be the one reviewing CVs and hiring future HR stars in no time. And remember, every HR professional needs a good sense of humor to survive the ups and downs of the job!

Good luck! (And don’t forget to have a cup of tea ready for those tough days ahead.)