An Overview of a Career in Talent Management

Megha Sharma
4 min readApr 16, 2024

If you are thinking of a career in talent management or have already begun planning the next step, then you must be equipped with the right kind of skillset to be successful. With the dynamic change in the job market competitiveness and the search for skilled talent, one must arm themselves with all the necessary inputs to excel in their career.

An Overview of a Career in Talent Management

One of the most reputed jobs in the talent management is being a “Talent Manger.” A talent manager is a skilled and well-experienced professional who is responsible to identify, attract, as well as retain the organization’s best and brightest employees. Their main job role involves sourcing and recruiting the new hires, onboard and managing their performance, building their career trajectory while also assisting to plan succession.

The role of a talent manager is usually comprehensive with a great effect on the business’s future. Let’s understand in detail about the inputs that are required to launch a career in talent management.

Obtaining a relevant degree

Usually, the hiring managers prefer a corporate recruiter candidate with a minimum bachelor’s degree. Most recruiters have a degree in Human Resources (HR), sociology, or psychology. A master’s degree in one of these areas will be helpful to stay ahead among potential hires and give them more opportunities for promotions and salary hikes. Additionally, with a master’s degree, an aspiring professional can expand their knowledge of subjects such as employment law, talent management, and strategic planning, paying ways to more versatility in this area.

Acquire relevant work experience

Even with a degree, one might not get a talent manager job without possessing relevant work experience.

Possessing a relevant work experience is very much necessary. Most recruiters work in sales, operations, or administrative positions before moving on to corporate recruitment. If one is still in college, it is highly recommended to consider a part-time job to gain some relevant experience.

Apply for recruiter internships

Another way to get one’s step ahead is to apply for present and in-demand recruiter internships. Recruiter interns usually look out for the applications and job resumes, manage applicants, and build recruiting materials. An internship offers an individual with practical experience and helps them to expand their professional network. Apart from this, there are high chances that an intern can become a permanent employee.

Opt for recruiter jobs

After completing the degree and gaining relevant work experience, it’s time to begin applying for recruiter jobs. Based on the level of experience one hold, one might get only qualified for junior or assistant positions. An entry-level position is the best way to polish one’s skills and climb the career ladder and attain a senior role.

Building relationships for networking

Participate in industry-specific events, conferences, and seminars, and join professional firms to network with professionals and potential clients. Developing the relationships is essential in talent management.

Develop career skills continuously

One must continuously develop their skillset irrespective of wherever they are positioned in their career. Employers appreciate individuals who are interested to learn and stay ahead with the latest enhancements and consider professionals who are well- informed about market trends first when senior roles become available. Attending workshops, courses, and conferences can further increases one’s knowledge and skillset. Skills like critical thinking, excellent communication, strong work ethics, problem solving, and leadership is very useful.

Enroll in Talent Management Certifications

Consider getting Talent Management certifications from reputed platforms that offer credentials in talent management and related fields. A certification can come in handy if one is considering moving on to another firm or becoming a freelance recruiter. Certifications enhance one’s qualifications and showcase their commitment with best practices that are required for a career in talent management. One can also want to join a professional organization so that can attend events and grow their professional network.

To Conclude

The need for talent managers is very high. The success of an exceptional organization is almost always an outcome of an extraordinary talent. The employees will make or break any organization, and it pays to prioritize talent managers as the core part of a firm’s operational body.

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Megha Sharma

HR Specialist, with a sharp eye to attract and top talent, develop existing talent along with managing employee relations.