The top eight in-demand skills involve recruitment or workforce management software, Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) and Application Tracking Software (ATS). HR professionals looking to enhance their job opportunities should work towards gaining experience working with these platforms.
1. human resource information systems (HRIS)
This comprehensive workforce management software helps HR professionals manage numerous human resource functions, including recruitment, training, onboarding, work schedules, time tracking and more. It’s typically used by companies with more than 25 employees, while smaller companies tend to rely solely on general tools, such as QuickBooks and Microsoft Office.
2. french bilingualism
Being fluent in both English and French will always be an in-demand skill in Canada. Not only will this skill allow HR professionals to communicate with workers and vendors based on their preferred language, but they can also create bilingual written policies and documents for the company.
3. application tracking software (ATS)
ATS software has been around for years and is used to sort through candidate applications using a variety of filters, such as keywords, qualifications and skills. HR professionals specializing in talent acquisition should have experience working with ATS software.
4. payroll systems
Most companies use some payroll processing software. Experience using various payroll systems is a must for many HR roles. It's essential to know how to input payroll, make adjustments and track hours with this software.
5. workday (software)
Experience working on the Workday platform is a plus for nearly all HR professionals. Employers use this cloud-based human capital management (HCM) software for everything from recruitment to tracking hours. Candidates should have experience using Workday and running reports.
6. SAP applications
SAP applications are invaluable tools in the recruitment and workforce management processes. Having experience utilizing these applications for payroll processing, recruitment, new hire onboarding, employee training, or workforce analytics can look great on a resume.
7. learning management systems (LMS)
Any HR professional specializing in employee training and career development should have experience working with LMS systems. This software allows HR teams to track employee training programs and maintain career development profiles in one convenient platform.
8. microsoft office
Any HR professional will want to have a firm grasp of the entire Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook, as they can expect to use one or more of these tools daily.
HR certifications to consider pursuing in 2023
Given today's growing skills gap, Canadian employers seek HR professionals who can prove their expertise in certain areas. Earning professional certifications in various HR specialties can help candidates provide this proof. Below is a look at the top HR certifications employers seek in 2023.
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1. CHRP certified human resources professional
The CHRP designation is ideal for entry-level HR professionals. To earn this certification, you must meet educational and on-the-job experience requirements and pass the CHRP examination.
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2. Payroll Compliance Practitioner
The Canadian Payroll Association offers certification as a payroll compliance practitioner. HR professionals must have at least one year of experience and complete several courses to earn this certification.
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3. Certified Employee Benefit Specialist
It typically takes about three years to become a certified employee benefits specialist, but it's considered one of the top designations in the benefits management sector.
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4. Certified Payroll Professional
Certified payroll professionals have an in-depth understanding of the payroll process. You must have at least 3 years of work experience and pass the CPP exam to earn this certification.
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5. Certified Compensation Professional
This elite certification is for HR professionals who want to move into senior-level positions. You must complete the required coursework and pass 10 separate examinations to earn this certification.
Want to learn more about the best human ressources jobs in 2023 in Canada?
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