PHR/SPHR: Professional in Human Resources Certification Study Guide

Just passed the PHR exam and this book was the only tool I used to study. However, I do not recommend using this as the only study tool. Further, I studied H. R. at UC Berkeley in CA (10 years ago)and this book taught me more. It was the main reason I passed and was put together to help you maintain critical info.

The Benefits / Compensation section was the most so dry. Yet, the rest was really interesting.

Keep in mind that the long and tough exam is situational. So they want the best answer; not just the right one. Therefore, I highly recommend it. Good luck to those who are planning to take it.

KB

This book was extremely helpful in preparing me for my PHR exam. SHRM offers a lot of classes and expensive training options, but with my work experience and this book as a study guide, I was able to successfully pass the exam on my first try. If nothing else, it's a good, inexpensive reference tool that I've utilized on many occasions.

I purchased this book and the SPHR book by Larry Phillips in preparation for taking the SPHR exam. On the bright side I passed. However, the test was more theoretical and experience based than this book which seemed to gloss over many important issues. But then it is intended as a supplement--not a replacement for actual experience and/or training. In that aspect I think it delivered what it promised, but I favor the exam-specific approach. I think trying to prepare people for both the PHR and SPHR in the same book may too tall a task to attempt in a single book.

I just took the 2008 PHR and passed easily with the help of this book (even though it is intended for the 2007 test). The content is arranged in chapters that are cohesive and build upon concepts discussed in previous chapters. The CD-ROM contains helpful test exams and flashcards. This book is a great resource to keep around after the examination as a general HR reference book.

This was the text I used exclusively to study for the PHR. I read it cover to cover and studied it like mad, and I passed 2 days ago. I also took a prep class, but I hated the text book that was assigned for the class and never used it. I definitely think this is a very valid study tool, you just have to put the time & effort into studying it! Someone with less experience in HR or experience in one specialized area is going to have to work a little harder to remember all the terminology than those with more years under their belt or with generalist experience.

A coworker used the SHRM Modules exclusively to study, and I used this, and we both passed. If you can't afford $700 for the SHRM books, try this one instead.