What are the best ways to develop your HR competencies through self-learning?

1 Assess your current level

The first step to developing your HR competencies through self-learning is to assess your current level of proficiency in each competency area. You can use the CIPD competency framework for HR, which defines 10 core competencies and four professional areas for HR practitioners, as a self-assessment tool. The framework also provides indicators of different levels of competence, from foundational to advanced. By identifying your strengths and gaps, you can prioritize your learning goals and plan your self-learning activities accordingly.

2 Choose relevant resources

The next step is to choose relevant and credible resources that can help you learn more about the competency areas you want to improve. There are many sources of information and guidance available online, such as blogs, podcasts, webinars, e-books, courses, and forums. You can also use the CIPD website, which offers a wealth of resources for HR professionals, such as research reports, case studies, toolkits, and learning modules. However, be selective and critical about the quality and relevance of the resources you use, and make sure they align with your learning objectives and the competency framework.

3 Apply your learning

The third step is to apply your learning to your current or future HR role. Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways to develop your HR competencies and demonstrate them to others. You can apply your learning by taking on new tasks, projects, or challenges that require you to use the competencies you have learned. You can also seek feedback from your manager, colleagues, or mentors on how well you are performing and what areas you need to improve. Alternatively, you can create your own portfolio of evidence, such as reports, presentations, or testimonials, that showcase your HR competencies and achievements.

4 Reflect on your progress

The fourth step is to reflect on your progress and evaluate your self-learning outcomes. Reflection is a key skill for HR professionals, as it helps you to identify what worked well, what didn't, and what you can do differently in the future. You can use the CIPD competency framework for HR as a benchmark to measure your progress and assess how far you have advanced in each competency area. You can also use a variety of tools, such as journals, logs, or SWOT analyses, to document your reflections and insights.

5 Seek opportunities for collaboration

The fifth step is to seek opportunities for collaboration and networking with other HR professionals who share your interest in developing your HR competencies. Collaboration and networking can enhance your self-learning experience by exposing you to different perspectives, ideas, and best practices. You can also benefit from the support, feedback, and mentoring of others who have more experience or expertise in the competency areas you want to learn. You can find opportunities for collaboration and networking through online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook groups, or through offline events, such as workshops, conferences, or meetups.

6 Keep up to date with trends

The sixth and final step is to keep up to date with the latest trends and developments in the HR field and the competency areas you are learning. The HR profession is constantly evolving and changing, and so are the competencies required for success. By staying informed and curious, you can ensure that your self-learning is relevant, timely, and responsive to the needs and expectations of your organization and stakeholders. You can keep up to date with trends by following reputable sources of news, analysis, and commentary, such as HR magazines, podcasts, blogs, or newsletters.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?