In order to be successful at gaining a HR manager role after university, candidates need to have a range of personality traits that recruiters are looking for. Read on to find out if you have the personality traits of a successful HR manager.
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Strong communication skills
A key element to any HR role is communicating between employers and employees. HR managers are often called upon to relay information to a range of audiences in varied ways, therefore it’s important that you’re comfortable and adept at communication face-to-face, via email and letters and on the telephone. HR managers will be the first point of contact for people with problems or questions and will play a key role in any negotiations that may arise between employees and their employer. It’s important that anyone considering a career in HR is able to convey messages and information clearly and concisely.
Organised
HR roles are made up of a variety of tasks, and in any one working day you could find yourself juggling multiple jobs at once – therefore, it’s essential that you’re organised. It’s also likely that your role will come with a degree of administrative duties, so being able to keep everything filed correctly will be essential. Time management is crucial if you want to be a HR manager people can trust; you’ll be dealing with people’s personal lives as well as their careers and they will want to have faith that issues will be dealt with in a timely manner.
Empathetic
The ability to show empathy to other people on a range of topics is essential for a good HR manager. HR managers are responsible for ensuring that employees are happy and supported in their place of work and often have to deal with a breadth of issues impacting employees in the workplace. HR managers need to be people fellow staff feel comfortable approaching for help and advice.
A problem solver
As a HR manager you may find yourself dealing with conflicts that arise within the workplace from time to time. Being able to deal with these in a harmonious and professional manner will be important. Diffusing tense situations and being able to see a positive outcome from a difficult situation will stand you in good stead in a career in HR.
A comfortable leader
HR managers are often seen as the beacon of all knowledge within a company. From answering employees’ concerns to managing charity fundraising and organising staff socials, HR managers need to be comfortable leading groups of people and projects. Many people will look to you for guidance, and it’s important that you’re able to balance being approachable and friendly with the ability to take control and lead staff.
If you think you’ve got the right characteristics to excel as a HR manager, then the Griffith College HRM course is the perfect way to get the training and experience you need to start your career.
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.