Dallas Director Touts Rewards Of A Career In Human Resources
Management careers take many different forms. With a great appreciation for what education did for his career, Ralph Sanders, human resource director for the Greenville Independent School District, is giving back to the education field in many ways. Ralph says that although a good education takes hard work and dedication, it is important if you want to make a real difference in today's society.
Where do you work and what is your title?
"I work for Greenville Independent School District. My title is executive director of human resources. I make sure that all employees are treated with dignity, that all needed benefits are given, that all teachers are highly qualified and that all paraprofessionals meet the qualifications needed to work. I get to work with people and I love it more and more each day."
What kind of degree is required for this position?
"An administrator's degree is preferred. However, a management degree can also suffice. I have my M.Ed in Educational Administration with an administrator's certification. I got my B.S. in 2.5 years. However, due to my lovely children and job, I waited nine years to get my masters. Higher education always has something to contribute as far as groundwork for any career. My teaching career and campus-level administration positions prepared me as well. I have learned to always respect another's viewpoint and to listen, which is an acquired art. I feel that this has helped me be successful."
Do you have any advice for someone interested in pursuing a career in human resources?
"If you want to do H.R., you must really have a love for people. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity. You must be flexible and listen to all viewpoints. Your decisions affect lives, so don't take people lightly. Be prepared to work. You never know what another human will do or say, and there is no off button like one you would have on a computer. But, if you give it your all, you will love it! There are days when you have to reprimand and even fire someone. However, most days you get to see how small things make big differences in the lives of others and you feel so good about that."
Judy Serrano writes romantic thrillers at www.JudySerraon.com. She graduated from Texas A&M Commerce with a BA in English. She is also a freelance writer for Examiner.com. She lives in Texas with her husband, four boys and five dogs.
