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I am looking for a mentor on the East Coast with knowedge in the HR realm or Public Administration

Veteran

India Hall Richmond Hill, GA

Hello everyone I'm India and I am looking to transition in November 2019. I'm looking for a mentor on the east coast (as that's where we plan to relocate back to after the Army) who can assist me in the HR realm or Public Administration. I would ultimately like to go into the federal sector and my passion is non-profit management. Just looking to get assistance on ways to prepare myself for a position in any of these fields as I prepare to transition.

17 January 2017 3 replies Mentoring

Answers

Advisor

Richard Koethe Myrtle Beach, SC

Hello India,
It's great that you are projecting when you will be transitioning and planning your actions this far in advance.
I am a retired Army Colonel but also have over 15 years experience in Human Resources, Training and Organizational Development with professional certifications in HR, Process Improvement and Organizational Leadership Coaching.
"Human Resources" has many facets to it and I would gad to assist and mentor you as part of your transition process. I just retired from Federal Civil Service as the HR Director for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program in the Washington, DC area and have many contacts that might be of use to you.
Let me know what I can do to assist.
Respectfully,
Richard (Rick) Koethe

Advisor

Jim Jones Getzville, NY

Hi India. You are wise to begin the research process now. Some suggestions before you seek a mentor would be; narrow or identity what part of HR you want to enter (benefits, payroll, recruiting, training, systems, contract negotiation). While all under the HR umbrella, they all require a unique set of skills and abilities. They keys for you are to identify skills, abilities and knowledge that you have or want to develop. That will help to narrow your focus. Next is to identify your skills, knowledge and abilities as they relate to non profit management. What skills or successes can you identify that would make you a candidate for a management position in a not for profit? If you don't have those attributes now, look for opportunities to develop them via volunteer or part time work opportunities. Volunteer work and part time work can also help you refine your interests in terms of your career path. Plus it will enhance your network. Speaking of network. Now is the time to develop and connect with network connections who can provide insights and guidance with your career search. What type of not for profit do you want to work with? If you are not sure, begin to research areas(agencies) that interest you through conducting informational interviews. I know I have thrown a lot your way. Let me know if you need clarification or additional ideas.

Advisor

David Mccollum Lawrenceville, GA

Hello India,

Have you researched the Society for Human Resources Management? If you're not involved already, I'd recommend joining your local chapter or reviewing a chapter in another state if you're looking to relocate. Obtaining the SHRM-CP or PHR certification would be a great way for potential employers to know you're aware of the most recent best practices with HR.

I'd also recommend reviewing the International Public Management Association for Human Resources for certifications relevant to the federal government: http://ipma-hr.org/

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