Human Resources Consultant: Missions, Skills, Training, Salary and Career Development

With the growing importance of human and organisational issues, the role of the Human Resources Consultant has become a central element of corporate strategy. Responsible for human resources management and organisational consulting, HR Consultants play a crucial role in optimising performance and meeting HR challenges. They work with a variety of companies to improve personnel management, develop human capital and adapt to legislative and economic changes.

Description of the job of Human Resources Consultant

Human Resources Consultants are experts in human resources management and organisational consultancy. Often working for a consultancy firm or as an independent consultant, they advise companies on best practice in personnel management, recruitment, training and skills development. His aim is to optimise HR processes and solve the problems encountered by his clients.

What is the role and remit of a Human Resources Consultant?

Audit and diagnosis of needs

The HR Consultant carries out audits to identify the strengths and weaknesses of HR processes within the company. They assess the management of payroll, industrial relations and the social climate in order to propose appropriate solutions.

Developing and implementing HR strategies

They develop and implement strategies to improve human resources management, including forward-looking management of jobs and skills (GPEC), professional training and coaching. It assists companies with change management and digital transformation.

Operational support

HR Consultants assist HR Directors and managers in implementing effective policies. They work on a wide range of assignments, including payroll management, freelance administration, personnel administration and career management.

Organisational consultancy and digital transformation

He advises companies on optimising their organisation and digitalising HR processes, including implementing HRIS (human resources information systems) to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of HR departments.

Tools and technologies used by the Human Resources Consultant

Information systems and HR software

The HR Consultant uses ERP, HRIS and payroll software such as SAP, Workday and Oracle HCM to manage and analyse HR data.

Project management and analysis tools

Project management tools such as Trello, Asana and Jira are used to organise and monitor consultancy assignments. Analysis tools such as Google Analytics are used to monitor HR performance.

Training and development tools

Online training platforms and coaching tools such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and CoachAccountable are used for skills development and one-to-one coaching.

What skills do you need to be a good Human Resources Consultant?

Professional skills

• Mastery of human resources management techniques and HR tools.
• Knowledge of employment law and industrial relations.
• Expertise in change management and career management.
• Audit, diagnostic and organisational consultancy skills.
• Expertise in HR information systems and payroll software.

Personal skills

• Communication skills to interact with staff and management.
• Analytical mindset and rigour to carry out accurate diagnoses.
• Adaptability and responsiveness to respond to changes in the market.
• Leadership and management skills to motivate and direct teams.
• Interpersonal skills to build trusting relationships with customers.

What are the current challenges facing a Human Resources Consultant?

Rapidly changing technologies and legislation

The human resources sector is evolving rapidly, with the emergence of new technologies and frequent changes in legislation. Consultants need to keep up to date with the latest developments in order to remain competitive and offer innovative solutions.

Service quality management

Ensuring the quality of services while meeting deadlines is a major challenge. HR consultants must maintain a high level of quality in their recommendations and support.

Justifying return on investment (ROI)

Measuring the effectiveness of interventions and justifying the ROI of consultancy assignments is essential. Consultants must use powerful analysis tools to monitor results and adjust their strategies based on the data collected.

How do I become a Human Resources Consultant?

Education and training

To become a Human Resources Consultant, you generally need a 5-year degree in human resources management, management or employment law. The following courses are particularly popular:

• Master's degree in human resources management.
• MBA in human resources management.
• Business school diploma with a specialisation in HR.

EM Normandie offers courses tailored to this profession, such as the M2 Human Resources Manager. This course provides the necessary skills in HR strategy, talent management and organisational consulting.

Professional experience

Significant experience in positions of responsibility in HR management is essential. Internships in consulting firms orHR assistant positions are key steps towards becoming a consultant.

Career development and prospects for a Human Resources Consultant

• Progression to the position of Human Resources Director or Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).
• Opportunities in large companies, consultancies or start-ups.
• Possibility of becoming an independent consultant or setting up your own HR consultancy.
• Transition to the role of organisational consultant or professional development coach.

What does a Human Resources Consultant earn?

The salary of a Human Resources Consultant varies according to experience, the size of the company and the sector of activity:

• Beginner: Gross annual salary (approx.): €30,000 - €40,000
• 2-5 years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €40,000 - €55,000
• 5+ years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €55,000 and more (with possible bonuses)

What does a Human Resources Consultant do?

A variety of employers

HR Consultants can work in a variety of organisations, including:

• Large companies and international groups.
• SMEs and start-ups.
• Human resources consultancies.
• Non-profit organisations and associations.

Main areas of work

An HR Consultant works in a number of sectors, including:

• E-commerce: Optimising HR strategies for online sales sites.
• Technology: HR consulting for high-tech companies.
• Financial Services: HR consulting for financial and banking products.
• Health and pharmaceuticals: Human resources management for medical and pharmaceutical products.

In summary

The profession of Human Resources Consultant is essential for optimising human resources management in companies. As the central pillar of HR consulting activities, the consultant plays a crucial role in improving performance and retaining staff. Their ability to analyse data, propose innovative solutions and manage strategic HR projects is essential to ensuring the success and growth of companies. This job requires diversified skills and a strong ability to manage strategic responsibilities. It's a dynamic role offering opportunities for professional growth and a significant impact on the success of organisations' HR strategies.