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Member Profile
Senta Carter, SPHR
DIRECTOR OF TALENT MANAGEMENT
AT TELECARE CORPORATION
MEMBER SINCE 2002
What led you to Human Resources as a profession?
I received a part-time HR Administrative Assistant job right out of college and
had the opportunity to work very closely with HR Managers. Through this
experience I realized that this was a profession I wanted to pursue because
I could utilize my communication skills, participate in conflict resolution and
ultimately make a difference in the workplace.
In your opinion, what is the future of HR?
I feel like it is more crucial than ever for HR to have a strategic seat at the table
because there are so many legislative changes that directly affect employees
and how we do business. I also see HR professionals as being more innovative
leaders who help shape a work environment that supports these changes, as
well as retain staff.
What would you recommend to someone just
starting out in HR?
HR is always evolving due to internal and external mandates so it is important
to connect with organizations, such as NCHRA, that provide resources to help
you navigate your way through. I also strongly recommend finding a mentor
who has been in the field at least 10 years, and who has had experience
managing complex HR related issues. He/she will be able to provide you with
a practical approach to address issues. Also, do not get frustrated if you start
in an entry-level position…most of us did. Use it as an opportunity to position
yourself and shadow peers within different functional areas of HR. This will
enable you to gain the experience you need to advance in the field and to
identify if you would like to specialize in one area or be a Generalist.
What do you find is the greatest reward working in HR?
The opportunity to work with employees from all levels of an organization
that have diverse backgrounds. Most importantly, knowing that I can have
a positive influence on outcomes in the organization where all staff feel that
they are treated fairly.
What role has NCHRA played in your career?
NCHRA has provided educational opportunities that have enabled me to stay
abreast of the changes in labor law, trends and legislative issues that affect
employee relations. Not to mention, the opportunity to network with other HR
Professionals outside of my organization.
BIOGRAPHY
Senta Carter currently works as the Director of Talent Management at Telecare
Corporation where she is responsible for identifying, designing, implementing and
evaluating programs that support the professional development and continuous
learning of leaders and staff. Prior to her current role she worked as an HR Generalist/
Manager and has an extensive background in Employee and Labor Relations.
Senta graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies from
Sacramento State University and holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources from
Chapman University. Senta enjoys horseback riding, traveling, mentoring youth and
most importantly spending time with her husband and daughter.
HR