In the dynamic landscape of Human Resources (HR), professionals often seek clear paths for career progression and validation of their skills. The Accredited Professional Member (previously known as the Emerging Professional) accreditation works as a pivotal stepping stone for early-career HR professionals in New Zealand. By positioning it as a stepping stone to Chartered status, HRNZ encourages professionals to embark on this journey early, thus fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional excellence.
The Accredited Professional Standard Today
The name change to Accredited Professional rather than Emerging Professional is to reflect successful applicants' status more accurately. An Accredited Professional Member demonstrates that they have completed their initial education and training within HR, understand and follow the code of practice and have begun developing the six core capabilities needed for success in an HR role. It’s also an indication that an individual has committed to a path of continuous learning and development through CPD.
Why Apply for the Accredited Professional Standard?
This accreditation reflects the growing demand for validated competencies in HR roles, ensuring that professionals entering the field possess the requisite knowledge and skills to drive organisational success.
Levels of Knowledge Required
Aspiring Accredited Professional Members must demonstrate proficiency in core capabilities at the 'Delivers' level minimum. Here's what demonstrating these core capabilities entails:
- Knowledge of Te Ao Māori: Candidates should be able to use basic Te Reo terms appropriately and reflect Māori cultural values in the administration of basic HR processes.
- Understands and Values People: Successful applicants support individuals to engage with day-to-day HR processes. They demonstrate empathy and emotional intelligence, recognising the unique needs of each employee.
- Reads a Room or Situation: Proficient individuals can identify and accurately apply standard policies and processes. Moreover, they can discern situations where these protocols are not effective and adapt accordingly.
- Brings People on the Journey: Demonstrating reliability and integrity in administering systems and handling employee information is essential. Accredited members foster trust and transparency, ensuring that employees feel supported throughout their interactions with HR processes.
- Solves Workplace Problems: Accredited members recommend appropriate solutions within policy parameters when standard arrangements do not suffice for an employee's situation.
- Sees and Mitigates Risks: Proficient individuals administer organizational policies and employment arrangements accurately. They are vigilant in identifying potential risks and speak up to the appropriate authorities if they notice any non-compliance or discrepancies.
In addition to showcasing these core capabilities, candidates must have at least 18 months of experience in HR roles involving practice in at least two domains of knowledge. One of these domains must be selected from the following list:
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Employment Relations
- Health Safety and Wellbeing
- Attraction, Recruitment, and Selection
- Remuneration and Rewards
- Learning and Development
- HR Administration
By fulfilling these criteria, candidates demonstrate not only their technical proficiency but also their commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and supportive workplace environments. This holistic approach to HR accreditation ensures that Accredited Professional Members are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern HR practice with confidence and integrity.
The Steps for Applicants
For those looking to attain Accredited Professional Member status, the steps for applicants are as follows:
- Application Form: Fill out an application form providing evidence of the above core capabilities and domains of knowledge. You must also attach your CV.
- CPD Points: Applicants are required to demonstrate completion of the equivalent of 25 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points in the 12 months preceding the application. These points can be accrued through a variety of HRNZ and non-HRNZ events and activities, reflecting a commitment to ongoing learning and skill enhancement.
- Code of Practice Module: You must complete the HRNZ Code of Practice module, demonstrating adherence to ethical standards and professional conduct within the HR profession. This module serves as a foundational component of the accreditation process, emphasising the importance of integrity, accountability, and respect for diversity in HR practice.
- Letter of Reference: A letter of reference from an employer or Chartered Member of HRNZ is required to validate the candidate's achievements and contributions to the field of HR. This reference serves as a testament to the applicant's professional integrity, competence, and commitment to HR excellence.
The Path to Chartered Status
The Accredited Professional Member accreditation serves as a critical milestone in the journey towards chartered status, embodying the core values and competencies essential for HR leadership roles. HRNZ aims to encourage early-career professionals to embark on a journey of continuous learning, growth, and professional development.
In essence, the Accredited Professional standard represents more than just a credential—it signifies a commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism in the HR profession. By empowering early-career HR professionals with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed, HRNZ is laying the foundation for a vibrant and thriving HR community in New Zealand.