Mastering HR Essentials – Even If “HR” Isn’t in Your Job Title

In today’s workplaces, HR decisions happen every day—even if human resources isn’t part of your title. If you’re hiring employees, managing performance, or resolving workplace conflicts, you’re making choices that can have legal, ethical, and cultural impacts. For small business owners, people managers, and professionals stepping into HR responsibilities without formal training, getting it right matters—and mistakes can be costly. 

That’s why Tufts Center for Professional and Workforce Impact developed the Human Resource Management (HRM) Essentials for Business Professionals Certificate. 

Why This Program Matters 

In many organizations—especially small and mid-sized ones—there’s no full-time HR team. That means leaders often handle: 

• Employee relations 

• Compensation and benefits 

• Policy-making and compliance 

• Performance management 

• Talent acquisition and onboarding 

Without a strong HR foundation, these tasks can expose organizations to compliance risks, missed opportunities, and costly errors. The HRM Essentials micro-courses address these gaps, covering: 

• Talent and recruitment strategies 

• Employment law and compliance 

• Compensation and benefits 

• Employee and labor relations 

• Workplace conflict management 

• Performance management best practices 

Real-World Scenarios, Practical Solutions 

The program is built around real-world case studies and interactive scenarios—because HR isn’t just theory. You’ll walk away with: 

• Clear explanations of key employment laws (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, and more) 

• Legally sound hiring, discipline, and termination practices 

• Templates, checklists, and guides you can use immediately 

• Conflict resolution strategies that help you avoid costly litigation 

You’ll also learn to identify hidden HR risks—like the ways an offer letter could compromise employment-at-will protection, or how applicant discrimination claims can arise before you even make a hire. 

Who Should Enroll 

This program is ideal for: 

• Small business owners managing their own teams 

• Managers who lead people but lack formal HR training 

• New or aspiring HR professionals seeking a fast track to foundational knowledge 

• Business leaders who want to reduce legal risk while improving team performance 

 If you’re hiring, managing, or developing talent—this program will sharpen your skills and give you the confidence to handle HR responsibilities with professionalism and ease. 

Why Now 

HR laws and workplace expectations are evolving quickly. Upskilling in HR today means you can: 

• Apply core HR practices to improve hiring and retention 

• Confidently navigate compliance requirements 

• Strengthen team effectiveness and culture 

• Support your organization’s strategic direction 

Your people are your organization’s greatest asset. With the right HR skills, you can protect that asset, unlock its potential, and drive long-term success. 

 Learn more and enroll today →