HR might sound like it’s all admin and annual leave approvals, but there’s a lot more to it than that. If you’ve ever thought about a career in HR, you might be surprised by how emotionally engaging and personally rewarding it can be. We spoke to a few professionals working in HR jobs in London to find out what keeps them going, even on the tough days.
You're there for the big life moments
Amna, an HR Business Partner in the legal sector, told us, "I’ve been the person someone turns to when they’re pregnant and nervous to tell their boss. I’ve helped someone through bereavement. HR means being part of some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life at work." She went on to say that the human side of HR is what surprised her most, and what’s kept her in the field for over 10 years.
There’s no script for a redundancy conversation
Kieran works in employee relations for a media company. "I’ve had some really tough conversations; redundancies, disciplinaries, grievances. You can’t ever fully prepare for how emotional those moments can be, for both sides. But getting it right really matters. It’s not just process, it’s people."
He added that having a calm head and a kind approach is what helps people feel respected, even when the news isn’t what they want to hear.
Helping someone find their confidence again is priceless
Sofia moved into HR after starting her career in admin support. Now a Learning and Development Manager, she finds joy in building people up. "We had a return-to-work mum who was doubting herself. With the right coaching and support, she’s now leading a team. Watching someone grow like that? You don’t forget it." If you enjoy helping others and spotting potential, HR might be a great next step for you.
You do make a difference, even when it doesn’t feel like it
Darren is fairly new to the HR world, having switched from a career in customer service. "Some days it feels like you’re just firefighting. But then someone thanks you for listening, or you hear feedback that something you did made work easier for someone, and that makes it worth it." He says if you’re patient and people-focused, HR jobs in London offer the chance to do something meaningful, even if it’s behind the scenes.
Every day is different
Leanne works in a generalist HR role at a small tech firm. "I’ve worked in recruitment, onboarding, conflict resolution, mental health support, sometimes all in the same week! It’s varied, fast-paced, and genuinely interesting." She believes HR is a great choice for anyone who’s organised, empathetic, and up for a challenge.
HR Jobs in London
HR could be a natural and fulfilling career for you if you would like an office-based career that combines business and people. Register for HR jobs in London with us.