Job Profile Questionnaire

Emily Hunter - Human Resources Adviser

HR Service

Describe a typical working day
It very much depends on the nature and status of the project that I'm working on as to how my day turns out. It's a mixture of meeting with stakeholders, researching employment issues, writing reports and manager guidance, advising and supporting colleagues/managers over the phone on a range of HR topics. The odd presentation can be thrown in there too. Our team is very busy and there are always a million things on the go, but that's how I like it.

What attracted you to working for us?
I saw the advert on the Council website and the job looked perfect for me. Phoning up to get some more information about the post reinforced my decision to apply - everyone was so helpful and friendly. It really sounded like a great team to work in.

What advice would you give someone looking for opportunities in this area?
If you are entering the HR profession as I did with little or no experience of the industry it may be helpful to familiarise yourself with the main concepts. Read HR publications such as Personnel Today or People Management. Not only do they have great articles to familiarise yourself with HR, they also advertise jobs.

What qualifications or experience are essential for this kind of work?
When entering any career, it's always a good idea get work experience and gain a feel for what that profession may involve.

To work in HR, it is essential that you are a good communicator who is proactive and can manage multiple tasks. In my opinion, an individual who prefers to focus on one project at a time may not be suited to HR; we often have lots of projects to juggle.

To help develop your skills and knowledge needed to progress up the HR ladder, you must gain the appropriate qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD).

What is the best thing about your work?
I love the fact that my work has such an influence across the Council. It's so satisfying when a strategy that you have worked hard on is implemented and visibly makes a difference.

What opportunities does your local authority provide you that you cannot get elsewhere?
Tameside really cares about its employees. Right from the start the Council has invested considerable time and money in my personal development; managerial support and training opportunities have been second to none.

It also recognises that people have a life outside work. The flexible working policy gives me considerable control over my working hours. There's nothing I enjoy more than phoning my friends who are still in their office when I leave work early on a Friday!