Gen200

Running Head: Professional Knowledge Professional Knowledge and Abilities Professional Knowledge and Abilities In my career field, human resources; most professionals belong to The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). SHRM is the world’s largest association devoted to human resource management. Representing more than 250,000 members in over 140 countries, the Society serves the needs of HR professionals and advances the interests of the HR profession. Founded in 1948, SHRM has more than 575 affiliated chapters within the United States and subsidiary offices in China and India (SHRM, 2009). SHRMprovides the opportunity to network with other HR professionals through monthly meetings. These meetings are attended by hundreds of HR employees and directors in the local area. Subjects discussed at these meetings are all relevant to current trendsand provide education on the latest information in the field of human resources. This allows professionals to compare notes, share strategies and experiences, and discuss changes. SHRM also offers the opportunityfor HR employees to become certified through their organization. This is for those professionals who may not have a formal college education in HR, but have found themselves in the field. Certification is also available for those professionals whose jobs require them to maintain a SHRM certification. This is to ensure that directors and managers are staying abreast of new and innovative trends in the HR industry and are required to complete CEU’s or Continuing Education Unitsto maintain their position. HR certification is a career-long commitment that proves to peers and organizations that individuals are driven to be successful in HR management (HRCI, 2009). There are many benefits for earning HR credentials through SHRM and maintaining a relationship with this professional organization throughout a career in HR. It can increase professional confidence, set professionals apart from peers, and result in greater respect from the organization in which they work. Professionals who belong to SHRM are recognized throughout the world for their high standards of competence (HRCI, 2009). Those who belong to SHRM also stay up-to-date on the latest information pertinent to the industry, and usually have a network of other HR professionals who can offer advice on an array of issues. References SHRM. (2009). Society for Human Resource Management. Retrieved from www.shrm.org Human Resource Certification Institute. (2009). HR Certification Institute. Retrieved from www.hrci.org SHRM. (2009). Northwest Louisiana SHRM. Retrieved from www.nwmlashrm.org