So you’re thinking about a career in human resources. I don’t blame you. There are quite a few perks to being a human resource manager -- more than you might expect. Now I’m not trying to make you think that being a human resource manager is going to be a bed of roses. There’s plenty of work and responsibility that comes along with such a position. But if you are having doubts about the time and work you will put into getting a degree in human resources and whether you’ll be properly compensated for your efforts, here are a few of the benefits you might not yet have considered.

First to Know
Well, you might not be the very first to know when something is going down, but you’ll be one of the first. When layoffs are coming, pay cuts or raises are taking place, bonus checks have arrived, and similar important or confidential events are occurring, you’ll be on the top of the list to find out first. Being privy to the knowledge that will affect others will project the image of power upon you whether that is something you are seeking in a career or not.

Sagaciousness
A position in human resources seems to come with an aura of wisdom. Even young people in entry-levels of human resource management often seem wise beyond their years due to their knowledge of policies, procedures, and training. You’ll find that all levels of staff, including other managers will be seeking seek your advice and counsel on a wide variety of topics -- and you don’t even have to wear your wizard’s hat.

Helping people
The great part of being in the human resources field is that you will be paid to help others. People will come to you for personal issues, work related matters, and all kinds of issues in between. While at times, you might feel overwhelmed and more like a life coach, career planner, and psychologist all wrapped into one, the role you perform can be quite rewarding and you can go home at the end of the day feeling like you’ve accomplished something.

It’s More Than Just a Desk Job
You might be thinking that an HR job might involve a lot of sitting around the office, doing paper work, talking to people, and keeping up with filing and organizing. While these duties will certainly play into your day, you will also be involved in training, interviewing, hiring/firing, planning and hosting employee and company events, and many other related activities that will keep you hopping.

You’re Important
As an HR manager, you are an integral part of the company or organization for which you work. You’ll likely be working with more than just employees as you deal with the organization’s legal team, go to unemployment hearings or work-related court issues, deal with unions, etc. Your company will be relying on your expertise and professionalism to help guide them through some very important issues.

Meeting People
It is nearly impossible to work in human res...