What should I do after completing my HR certificate?

Question

I have been a recruitment consultant in the hospitality industry for almost four years. Prior to this I worked my way up in the hostel industry to reservations manager and operations manager of a townhouse hotel. I have recently completed a Certificate in Personnel Practice and am a member of the Chartered Institute of Personel and Development (CIPD). Could you please advise me on the best way to get into HR in the hospitality, leisure or tourism sector?

Should I continue studying HR? I would really appreciate some advice and have attached my CV in order to give you an outline of my experience.

What the expert says

Kim Parish, human resources director, Scottish & Newcastle Retail

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Whether you choose to continue studying in HR is very much a personal choice, based on your career aspirations. There tends to be two routes into HR. Some people take on HR duties as part of their job and over time their involvement increases. Others make an effort to gain HR qualifications and work through trainee positions. You have already shown a good level of commitment and training by completing your Certificate in Personnel Practice. If you want to progress further you would benefit from undertaking further professional study through the Chartered Institute of Personel and Development. This study can be undertaken full-time or combined with working. Depending on your circumstances, you may want to investigate full-time CIPD courses, available across the country. If you choose to work and develop your HR studies I would recommend re-writing your CV to highlight the HR experience you have already gained and place less emphasis on your catering experience.