human resources generalist job description for resume

Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Other Resumes
• Human Resources (HR) Resume Guide & Examples

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Jump to a template:

• Human Resources (HR) Generalist
• Employee Relations Specialist
• Talent Acquisition Specialist
• HR Business Partner
• Senior HR Advisor

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Jump to a resource:

• Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Tips

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., human resources (hr) generalist resume sample.

In the world of Human Resources, an HR Generalist is seen as a jack-of-all-trades. You're the go-to expert handling a broad range of responsibilities, from recruitment to employee relations, benefits, and more. Lately, companies are seeking HR generalists who are not only well-versed in traditional HR skills, but also data-driven and tech-savvy. They're eager to find those who can leverage people analytics and HR Information System (HRIS) software to lead data-backed organizational decisions and streamline HR processes. When crafting your resume, remember that it's your personal marketing tool. It's not merely a list of job responsibilities; it's an opportunity to sell your unique blend of skills, experiences, and traits. Show your value proposition - how you can make a difference in the company's HR practices and overall business strategy. Be specific, include relevant achievements, and quantify them if possible.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your human resources (hr) generalist resume in 2024,    highlight tech savviness and analytical skills.

In the skills section, emphasize your proficiency in HRIS, applicant tracking systems, and people analytics. Describe specific instances where you used these tools to improve HR processes or make data-informed decisions.

   Showcase a blend of soft and hard skills

As an HR generalist, you need both people skills and technical know-how. Therefore, strike a balance in your resume. List instances where you managed conflict resolution or employee relations, and also detail your understanding of HR laws and compliance.

Human resources generalists can have wide-ranging responsibilities including hiring, administrative tasks, managing employee performance, and developing company policies. If you’re going for this job, use your resume to highlight your versatility and competence in a variety of different human resources-related duties (such as managing payroll or creating programs to boost employee morale).

   Focuses on human resources experience

Generalists need to be able to perform a variety of responsibilities well. Focusing your resume on similar roles that you’ve done in the past -- even if the duties weren’t identical -- shows that you can wear different hats and are experienced with the type of work that you might do in your new job.

   Good use of action verbs which highlight HR experience

Using clear and specific language also paints a clear picture of what you accomplished at past jobs and how you did it. Action verbs such as “managed”, “developed”, and “structured” are very human resources-specific and showcase relevant skills for the job.

Employee Relations Specialist Resume Sample

Talent acquisition specialist resume sample, hr business partner resume sample, senior hr advisor resume sample.

As a hiring manager who has recruited HR Generalists at companies like Amazon, Google, and Deloitte, I've reviewed hundreds of resumes. The best resumes effectively highlight the candidate's ability to support all aspects of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment to performance management. They also demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to partner with business leaders. Here are some tips to make your HR Generalist resume stand out:

   Highlight your experience across all HR functions

HR Generalists are expected to have a broad range of skills across various HR functions. Make sure your resume reflects your experience in:

• Recruiting and staffing: Partnered with hiring managers to fill 50+ positions annually, reducing time-to-hire by 20%
• Employee relations: Investigated and resolved 30+ employee relations issues, maintaining a 95% employee retention rate
• Performance management: Implemented a new performance review process for 200+ employees, resulting in a 25% increase in employee engagement scores
• Compensation and benefits: Conducted market analysis and made recommendations for compensation adjustments, resulting in a 10% reduction in employee turnover

Quantify your achievements wherever possible to demonstrate your impact.

   Showcase your ability to partner with business leaders

HR Generalists often serve as strategic partners to business leaders. Highlight examples of how you've collaborated with managers and executives to support business objectives:

• Partnered with sales leadership to design and implement a new commission structure, resulting in a 15% increase in sales revenue
• Collaborated with the operations team to develop and deliver training on new safety protocols, reducing workplace accidents by 30%

Avoid using vague statements like:

• Worked with managers on various HR initiatives
• Supported business objectives through HR programs

Instead, be specific about the initiatives you worked on and the results you achieved.

   Emphasize your interpersonal and communication skills

HR Generalists interact with employees at all levels of the organization, so strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential. Use your resume to highlight examples of how you've:

• Mediated conflicts between employees and managers, resulting in a 90% resolution rate
• Delivered training sessions on topics like diversity and inclusion, receiving an average rating of 4.5/5 from participants
• Presented HR metrics and insights to senior leadership on a quarterly basis

Avoid generic statements like "strong communication skills" without providing specific examples to back them up.

   Tailor your resume to the specific job requirements

While HR Generalist roles share many common responsibilities, the specific requirements can vary depending on the company and industry. Review the job description carefully and tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant.

For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with a particular HRIS system, make sure to call that out on your resume:

Implemented and managed Workday HRIS for a company of 500+ employees, resulting in a 50% reduction in manual data entry and a 25% increase in employee self-service

If the job requires experience with union contracts, highlight any relevant experience you have in that area.

   Include relevant certifications and professional development

HR Generalists are expected to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in HR. Include any relevant certifications or professional development courses you've completed, such as:

• SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional)
• PHR (Professional in Human Resources)
• Diversity and Inclusion Certification from Cornell University

Avoid listing irrelevant or outdated certifications that don't directly apply to the HR Generalist role.

   Use metrics to demonstrate your impact

Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact you've had in previous HR roles. This could include:

• Reduced time-to-hire from 45 days to 30 days by implementing a new applicant tracking system
• Improved employee engagement scores by 20% through the launch of a new recognition program
• Reduced turnover rate from 25% to 15% by implementing stay interviews and exit surveys

Metrics help to quantify your achievements and make your resume more impactful. Avoid using vague statements like "improved employee engagement" without providing specific numbers to back it up.

Writing Your Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume: Section By Section

  summary.

A resume summary is an optional section that appears at the top of your resume, just below your contact information. While not required, it can be a valuable addition for HR generalists, particularly if you have several years of experience or are making a career change. A well-written summary can quickly convey your key qualifications and career goals to a hiring manager, making your resume stand out.

When crafting your HR generalist resume summary, focus on highlighting your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Tailor your summary to the specific HR generalist position you're applying for, incorporating keywords from the job description. However, avoid simply repeating information that already appears elsewhere in your resume.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Human Resources (HR) Generalist resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Summary Examples , or Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your HR expertise and key skills

In your HR generalist resume summary, emphasize your core HR skills and areas of expertise that align with the job requirements. Consider including:

• Years of experience in human resources
• Specific HR functions you specialize in (e.g., recruiting, employee relations, benefits administration)
• Key skills relevant to the HR generalist role (e.g., HRIS systems, compliance knowledge, talent management)

Here's an example of a summary that effectively highlights HR expertise:

HR professional with 5+ years of experience in full-cycle recruiting, employee relations, and benefits administration. Adept at leveraging HRIS systems to streamline HR processes and ensure compliance. Proven track record of implementing successful talent management strategies to drive employee engagement and retention.

2. Showcase your impact and achievements

While it's important to highlight your HR skills and experience in your summary, avoid making generic statements or using corporate buzzwords. Instead, focus on showcasing your impact and achievements.

Compare these two examples:

• Results-oriented HR generalist with a proven track record of success.
• Highly motivated and dedicated HR professional with strong communication skills.

Instead, quantify your achievements and provide specific examples:

• HR generalist who reduced time-to-hire by 30% through implementing a streamlined recruiting process.
• Developed and delivered training programs that increased employee satisfaction scores by 25%.

By showcasing your measurable impact, you demonstrate the value you can bring to the organization and make your resume summary more compelling.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume as an HR generalist. It's where you showcase your relevant skills, accomplishments, and impact in previous roles. Craft this section carefully to demonstrate your value to potential employers.

1. Highlight HR initiatives and projects

As an HR generalist, you've likely led or contributed to various HR initiatives and projects. Showcase these effectively in your work experience section.

Instead of simply listing your responsibilities, describe the specific initiatives you worked on and their impact. Use metrics to quantify your achievements whenever possible.

• Implemented a new applicant tracking system, reducing time-to-hire by 30% and improving candidate experience scores by 25%
• Developed and delivered a comprehensive training program on diversity and inclusion for 500+ employees, resulting in a 15% increase in employee engagement scores

2. Showcase your expertise in key HR functions

HR generalists are expected to have a broad skill set across various HR functions. Use your work experience section to showcase your expertise in areas such as:

• Talent acquisition and recruitment
• Employee relations and performance management
• Compensation and benefits administration
• Training and development
• HR compliance and record-keeping

Provide specific examples of how you've excelled in these areas. For instance:

• Managed the full-cycle recruitment process for 25+ positions annually, sourcing top talent and maintaining a 95% offer acceptance rate
• Conducted thorough investigations into employee relations issues, providing fair and timely resolutions while minimizing legal risks

3. Use strong, industry-specific action verbs

When writing your work experience section, use powerful action verbs that are specific to the HR industry. This helps create a strong impression and highlights your relevant skills.

Instead of generic verbs like 'managed' or 'handled', opt for more descriptive verbs such as:

• Orchestrated - e.g. 'Orchestrated the implementation of a new HRIS system'
• Mediated - e.g. 'Mediated conflicts between employees and management'
• Spearheaded - e.g. 'Spearheaded a company-wide initiative to improve employee wellness'
• Audited - e.g. 'Audited HR processes to ensure compliance with labor laws'

Responsible for onboarding new hires and managing employee records.

Instead, write:

Orchestrated the onboarding process for all new hires, streamlining paperwork and reducing time-to-productivity by 20%. Meticulously maintained employee records, ensuring 100% accuracy and compliance.

4. Tailor your experiences to the job description

While it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of your HR experience, you should also tailor your resume to the specific job you're applying for. Review the job description carefully and highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant.

For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with employee training and development, focus on your related achievements:

• Created and delivered a leadership development program for high-potential employees, resulting in a 30% improvement in leadership competency scores and 50% reduction in turnover among program participants

On the other hand, if the role requires expertise in HR compliance and risk management, shift your focus accordingly:

• Conducted regular audits of HR policies and practices, ensuring 100% compliance with federal and state regulations. Implemented proactive risk management strategies, successfully avoiding any legal issues or fines.

  Education

Your education section is a key part of your HR generalist resume. It shows hiring managers that you have the knowledge and training to do the job well. Here are some tips for writing a strong education section:

1. Put your degree first if you're a recent grad

If you just finished school, put your education at the top of your resume. This is because your degree is your strongest qualification right now.

• Name of your school
• Location of your school
• Name of your degree
• Graduation year
• GPA (if above 3.5)
• Relevant coursework

For example:

Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management, 2022 GPA: 3.8 Relevant Coursework: Organizational Behavior, Employee Benefits, Talent Acquisition

2. Keep education short if you have 5+ years of HR experience

Once you have a few years of HR experience, your education becomes less important. Hiring managers will focus more on your work history. So keep your education section short and sweet.

Bad example:

• XYZ University Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration Concentration in Human Resources Management Graduated: May 2012 GPA: 3.2

Instead, just include:

• Degree, University

Bachelor of Business Administration, XYZ University

3. Add HR certifications to boost your credentials

HR certifications show that you have specialized knowledge. They can give you an edge over other candidates. Some top HR certifications include:

• SHRM-CP (Certified Professional)
• SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional)
• SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources)

If you have a certification, add it to your education section. For example:

Master's in Human Resources Management, ABC University, 2015 Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), HR Certification Institute, 2020

If you have several certifications, you can also create a separate "Certifications" section.

  Skills

The skills section on your human resources generalist resume is where you showcase the specific abilities and knowledge that make you a strong candidate for the role. This section should be tailored to the job description and highlight the most relevant skills that demonstrate your expertise in HR.

When writing your skills section, consider the following tips to make it stand out to hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS).

1. Include a mix of hard and soft skills

As an HR generalist, you need a combination of technical skills and interpersonal abilities to succeed in your role. Make sure to include a balance of both hard and soft skills in your skills section.

Hard skills are specific, measurable abilities that are often learned through training or education. For an HR generalist, these might include:

• Human resource information systems (HRIS)
• Applicant tracking systems (ATS)
• Benefits administration
• Payroll processing

Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal attributes and traits that enable you to work well with others and handle various situations. Important soft skills for HR generalists include:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Conflict resolution

2. Categorize your skills for easy scanning

To make your skills section more organized and reader-friendly, consider grouping your skills into categories. This allows hiring managers to quickly scan your resume and identify the most relevant skills for the position.

For example, you might categorize your skills like this:

Human Resources : Employee relations, performance management, onboarding, policy development Compliance : Labor law, OSHA regulations, EEO compliance Technology : HRIS, ATS, Microsoft Office Suite

Avoid simply listing skills without any context or categorization, like this:

Skills: Communication, empathy, HRIS, payroll, benefits, training, compliance, employee relations, conflict resolution

3. Tailor your skills to the job description

One of the most important aspects of crafting an effective skills section is tailoring it to the specific job you're applying for. Hiring managers want to see that you have the particular skills and experience they're looking for in a candidate.

Before writing your skills section, carefully review the job description and make note of any specific skills, tools, or qualifications mentioned. Then, incorporate these keywords into your skills section wherever applicable.

For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with a particular HRIS like Workday, make sure to include it in your skills section:

Technology : Workday HRIS, ADP Workforce Now, Microsoft Office Suite

4. Highlight your level of proficiency

In some cases, it may be helpful to indicate your level of proficiency for certain skills, especially if you're highly experienced or an expert in a particular area. This can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate the depth of your knowledge.

One way to do this is by using proficiency levels next to your skills, like this:

Performance management (Expert) Employee relations (Advanced) Benefits administration (Intermediate) Workday HRIS (Beginner)

However, be honest about your proficiency levels and avoid overstating your abilities. Only use 'Expert' or 'Advanced' if you truly have extensive experience and knowledge in that area.

Skills For Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Human Resources (HR) Generalist job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Accounts Receivable (AR)
• Financial Reporting
• Accounts Payable
• Financial Accounting
• General Ledger
• Account Reconciliation
• ADP Payroll

Skills Word Cloud For Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Human Resources (HR) Generalist job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

Similar resume templates, human resources (hr).

• Digital Transformation Resume Guide
• Recruiting Coordinator Resume Guide
• Social Worker Resume Guide
• Change Management Resume Guide
• Learning and Development Resume Guide

Resume Guide: Detailed Insights From Recruiters

• Human Resources (HR) Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

Improve your Human Resources (HR) Generalist resume, instantly.

Use our free resume checker to get expert feedback on your resume. You will:

•  Get a resume score compared to other Human Resources (HR) Generalist resumes in your industry.

•  Fix all your resume's mistakes.

•  Find the Human Resources (HR) Generalist skills your resume is missing.

•  Get rid of hidden red flags the hiring managers and resume screeners look for.

It's instant, free and trusted by 1+ million job seekers globally. Get a better resume, guaranteed .

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resumes

• Template #1: Human Resources (HR) Generalist
• Template #2: Human Resources (HR) Generalist
• Template #3: Human Resources (HR) Generalist
• Template #4: Employee Relations Specialist
• Template #5: Talent Acquisition Specialist
• Template #6: HR Business Partner
• Template #7: Senior HR Advisor
• Skills for Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resumes
• Free Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Review
• Other Other Resumes
• Human Resources (HR) Generalist Interview Guide
• Human Resources (HR) Generalist Sample Cover Letters
• Alternative Careers to a Human Resources Manager
• All Resumes
• Resume Action Verbs

Download this PDF template.

Creating an account is free and takes five seconds. you'll get access to the pdf version of this resume template., choose an option..

• Have an account? Sign in

E-mail Please enter a valid email address This email address hasn't been signed up yet, or it has already been signed up with Facebook or Google login.

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number. It looks like your password is incorrect.

Remember me

Forgot your password?

Sign up to get access to Resume Worded's Career Coaching platform in less than 2 minutes

Name Please enter your name correctly

E-mail Remember to use a real email address that you have access to. You will need to confirm your email address before you get access to our features, so please enter it correctly. Please enter a valid email address, or another email address to sign up. We unfortunately can't accept that email domain right now. This email address has already been taken, or you've already signed up via Google or Facebook login. We currently are experiencing a very high server load so Email signup is currently disabled for the next 24 hours. Please sign up with Google or Facebook to continue! We apologize for the inconvenience!

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number.

Receive resume templates, real resume samples, and updates monthly via email

By continuing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Lost your password? Please enter the email address you used when you signed up. We'll send you a link to create a new password.

E-mail This email address either hasn't been signed up yet, or you signed up with Facebook or Google. This email address doesn't look valid.

Back to log-in

These professional templates are optimized to beat resume screeners (i.e. the Applicant Tracking System). You can download the templates in Word, Google Docs, or PDF. For free (limited time).

   access samples from top resumes, get inspired by real bullet points that helped candidates get into top companies.,    get a resume score., find out how effective your resume really is. you'll get access to our confidential resume review tool which will tell you how recruiters see your resume..

Writing an effective resume has never been easier .

Upgrade to resume worded pro to unlock your full resume review., get this resume template (+ 23 others), plus proven bullet points., for a small one-time fee, you'll get everything you need to write a winning resume in your industry., here's what you'll get:.

• 📄 Get the editable resume template in Google Docs + Word . Plus, you'll also get all 23 other templates .
• ✍️ Get sample bullet points that worked for others in your industry . Copy proven lines and tailor them to your resume.
• 🎯 Optimized to pass all resume screeners (i.e. ATS) . All templates have been professionally designed by recruiters and 100% readable by ATS.

Buy now. Instant delivery via email.

  instant access. one-time only., what's your email address.

I had a clear uptick in responses after using your template. I got many compliments on it from senior hiring staff, and my resume scored way higher when I ran it through ATS resume scanners because it was more readable. Thank you!

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

• Human Resources Generalist Resume Example

Resume Examples

• Common Tasks & Responsibilities
• Top Hard & Soft Skills
• Action Verbs & Keywords
• Resume FAQs
• Similar Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Human Resources Generalist Resumes:

• Conducting new employee orientations and onboarding processes
• Managing employee benefits programs and enrollment
• Assisting with performance management and employee relations issues
• Maintaining employee records and ensuring compliance with legal requirements
• Developing and implementing HR policies and procedures
• Conducting exit interviews and analyzing turnover data
• Coordinating employee training and development programs
• Assisting with recruitment and selection processes
• Managing HR-related projects, such as employee engagement initiatives or diversity and inclusion programs
• Providing guidance and support to managers and employees on HR-related matters.

Speed up your resume creation process with the AI-Powered Resume Builder . Generate tailored achievements in seconds for every role you apply to.

Human Resources Generalist Resume Example:

• Spearheaded recruitment and onboarding process, propelling the organization toward increased candidate retention and efficiency driven success
• Posted job ads and organized interview logistics for 200+ applicants, resulting in a successful onboarding rate of over 89%
• Designed and implemented a comprehensive performance management system to evaluate employee progress, resulting in a 15% increase in staff retention and a 12% reduction in workplace grievances
• Established key performance indicators and implemented corrective policies to streamline employee development objectives
• Optimized employee compensation and benefits package, resulting in a 17% reduction in expenditures while still strengthening incentives to attract and retain top talents
• Sourced an array of benefit plans and maintained compliance with all applicable employment laws
• Conceptualized and implemented a benefit package, including insurance and retirement plans, to increase employee satisfaction and retention
• Designed a human resource database system to register, monitor, and evaluate personnel changes; resulting in a 25% increase in efficiency
• Created an efficient recruitment process that filled positions faster and at a lower cost, enabling the organization to stay competitive
• Recruitment and onboarding
• Performance evaluation and management
• Employment legislation/compliance
• Benefits packages/compensation optimization
• Human resources database systems
• Resourceful decision-making
• Organizational skills
• Interpersonal communication
• Analytical thinking
• Negotiation/influencing
• Data analysis
• Problem-solving
• Time management/planning
• Conflict resolution
• Discretion and confidentiality
• Adaptability
• Training and development
• Business Administration
• Employee Relations

Top Skills & Keywords for Human Resources Generalist Resumes:

Hard skills.

• Recruitment and Selection
• Performance Management
• HRIS Management
• Compensation and Benefits Administration
• Training and Development
• Compliance and Legal Knowledge
• HR Metrics and Analytics
• Onboarding and Offboarding
• Conflict Resolution
• Succession Planning
• Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Soft Skills

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Conflict Resolution and Mediation
• Problem Solving and Decision Making
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy
• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Leadership and Team Management
• Organizational and Planning Skills
• Active Listening and Feedback Incorporation
• Cultural Awareness and Diversity Management
• Ethics and Professionalism

Resume Action Verbs for Human Resources Generalists:

• Administered
• Coordinated
• Implemented
• Facilitated

Generate Your Resume Summary

Resume FAQs for Human Resources Generalists:

How long should i make my human resources generalist resume, what is the best way to format a human resources generalist resume, which keywords are important to highlight in a human resources generalist resume, how should i write my resume if i have no experience as a human resources generalist, compare your human resources generalist resume to a job description:.

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Human Resources Generalist job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Complete the steps below to generate your free resume analysis.

Related Resumes for Human Resources Generalists:

Beginner human resources, entry level human resources, experienced human resources, fresher human resources, hr assistant, human resources coordinator, human resources intern, junior human resources.

• Career Blog

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume: Example for 2024

In today’s complex business environment, the role of a Human Resources (HR) Generalist is more critical than ever. This professional serves as a link between management and employees, helping to ensure that the needs of both are met in an efficient and effective manner.

A Human Resources Generalist is a professional who is responsible for managing various aspects of the HR function, including recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance with employment laws and regulations. This individual may also be involved in training and development, performance management, and workforce planning.

The importance of a Human Resources Generalist cannot be overstated. They play a critical role in ensuring that organizational goals are met through effective workforce management. They also help to create a positive work environment by advocating for employee needs and building strong relationships with management.

Importance of an Effective HR Generalist Resume

An effective HR Generalist resume is essential for professionals looking to advance in their careers. It serves as a window into your skills, experience, and capabilities, allowing potential employers to get a sense of what you bring to the table.

Without an effective resume, it can be challenging to stand out in a competitive job market. When crafting your HR Generalist resume, it is essential to highlight your unique strengths and accomplishments in a way that aligns with the needs of prospective employers.

Crafting the Perfect HR Generalist Resume

When it comes to landing your dream job as an HR Generalist, a well-crafted resume is essential. A great resume not only showcases your skills and experience but also demonstrates that you understand the role and responsibilities of an HR Generalist, as well as the key skills and qualities that are needed for success in this role.

A. Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of an HR Generalist

HR Generalists play an important role in an organization by managing various aspects of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, benefits management and compliance. They must ensure that the workplace is in compliance with various laws and regulations, while also creating a positive and engaging work environment for employees.

B. Identifying Key Skills and Qualities for an HR Generalist

To be successful as an HR Generalist, you need to have a broad range of skills, including excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, strong organizational and time management skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities. You should also be familiar with HR laws and regulations, including FMLA, ADA, and FLSA, and have experience using HRIS systems.

C. Importance of Customizing the Resume for the Job Description

When it comes to resume writing, one size does not fit all. It’s essential to customize your resume for the job you’re applying for by carefully reading the job description and highlighting your relevant skills and experiences. By doing this, you can showcase how your past experiences and accomplishments align with the job requirements.

D. Best Practices for Resumes

To create a powerful HR Generalist resume, be sure to follow best practices, such as:

• Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and experiences
• Keep your resume concise, ideally no more than two pages
• Use industry-specific keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job
• Use an easy-to-read font and format your resume for readability
• Include your current certifications and education

By following these practices, you can create a resume that showcases your skills and experiences, and effectively communicate your value to potential employers.

Crafting the perfect HR Generalist resume requires a deep understanding of the role and responsibilities, as well as the key skills and qualities needed for success. By carefully customizing your resume and following best practices, you can showcase your true potential and secure your dream job as an HR Generalist.

HR Generalist Resume Format and Design

In today’s highly competitive job market, a visually appealing resume can make all the difference. Your HR generalist resume is your first chance to impress potential employers and make a lasting impression.

A. Importance of a Visually Appealing Resume

A visually appealing HR generalist resume is critical in catching the attention of hiring managers. The layout and design of your resume can provide a glimpse into your personality and level of professionalism, which can make or break your chances of landing an interview. Remember, recruiters have countless resumes to review for each opening, so you want to make sure yours stands out from the rest.

B. Choosing the Right Resume Format

One crucial aspect of your HR generalist resume format is selecting the right style. There are three primary types of resume formats to choose from: chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological format focuses on your job history and is best suited for individuals who have a stable employment history in their industry. The functional format emphasizes your skills and accomplishments, and it’s ideal for recent graduates and those who are returning to the workforce after an extended break. Finally, the combination format is a hybrid of the two and uses both skills and job history to provide a well-rounded picture of your experience.

C. Highlighting Key Information Using Design

When it comes to design, the goal is to grab the recruiter’s attention and highlight your key information. The font size and style, spacing, and color scheme all play a big role in creating a visually appealing resume. Use a font size that’s easy to read, such as 12 pt, and avoid using multiple font styles. Instead, stick to one or two fonts to create a cohesive look. Also, ensure adequate spacing between sections and bullet points to make your resume easy to skim.

In addition, you can use design to highlight your key accomplishments and skills. Use bold or italics to emphasize important information, such as job titles or certifications. You can also use color to make certain sections of your resume stand out, such as your educational background or professional development.

A visually appealing HR generalist resume is a crucial component in landing your dream job. By choosing the right format and using design to highlight your key information, you can create a resume that stands out and grabs the recruiter’s attention. Remember, your resume is your first chance to showcase your skills and experience, so make sure it looks as professional as possible.

HR Generalist Resume Sections

As an HR Generalist, your resume should be crafted to impress hiring managers and showcase your experience, achievements, and qualifications. The following sections will help you structure your HR Generalist resume in a way that highlights your potential as an invaluable addition to any organization.

A. Contact Information and Professional Summary

The first section of your HR Generalist resume should include your name, professional email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile URL. It is essential to ensure that your contact information is up-to-date and professional-looking.

Next, add a professional summary that immediately captures the recruiter’s attention. Use this section to highlight your most significant accomplishments, and make sure it aligns with the job requirements.

“Experienced HR Generalist with a proven track record in managing employee benefits, payroll administration, and employee relations. Possess excellent communication and analytical skills that facilitate effective conflict resolution and promote a positive work environment. Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to achieve business goals.”

B. Professional Experience

Your professional experience section is where you can demonstrate your skills, achievements and showcase your past work experiences.

Under this section, start with your most recent or current position, followed by the rest in reverse-chronological order. Use bullet points to describe your Job Responsibilities and focus on your accomplishments. Quantify your achievements by adding figures.

Remember to align your achievements and job descriptions with those outlined in the job posting.

HR Generalist, Company X – March 2019 to Present

• Designed and implemented a new company-wide HR policy which led to 30% improvement in employee engagement.
• Managed the onboarding process for over 100 employees, resulting in a reduction in new hire paperwork processing time by 20%.
• Developed training programs for managers and employees on diversity and inclusion, reducing instances of non-compliance by 25%.

C. Education and Certifications

Under this section, list your education and professional certifications, starting with the highest qualification first. Make sure to include the institution’s name, the degree/diploma/certification obtained plus the year of completion/ date of graduation.

• Master of Business Administration – XYZ University, 2017
• Bachelor of Science in Human Resource, ABC University, 2014

Certifications:

• SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional)
• aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources)

D. Skills and Qualifications

This last section should list both your Hard and Soft Skills, specifically those that meet the job requirements.

1. Hard Skills

Hard Skills are those that are specific to HR, such as proficiency in HRIS tools, knowledge of labor laws and regulations.

• HRIS Software: Proficiency in using human resource information systems (HRIS) software to manage employee data, track performance, and generate reports.
• Payroll Administration: Experience in processing payroll, calculating wages, deductions, and taxes accurately, and ensuring compliance with payroll laws and regulations.
• Benefits Administration: Knowledge of managing employee benefits programs, including enrollment, communication, and coordination with insurance providers.
• Recruitment and Selection: Expertise in sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, assessing qualifications, and executing the hiring process.
• Employee Relations: Understanding of employee relations principles and practices, including conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and employee grievance procedures.
• Performance Management: Ability to design and implement performance management systems, set performance goals, conduct evaluations, and provide feedback and coaching to employees.
• Compliance and Employment Laws: Familiarity with labor laws, regulations, and employment practices to ensure compliance in areas such as equal employment opportunity, discrimination, and workplace safety.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analyzing HR metrics and data to identify trends, make informed decisions, and develop strategies for workforce planning and development.
• Training and Development: Experience in designing and delivering training programs to enhance employee skills, knowledge, and professional development.
• HR Policies and Procedures: Knowledge of developing and implementing HR policies, procedures, and guidelines in alignment with organizational objectives and legal requirements.

2. Soft Skills

Soft Skills are equally important for an HR Generalist, as they contribute to effective communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building within the organization. Examples of soft skills for an HR Generalist include:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Conflict resolution and mediation abilities
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Organizational and time management skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ethical and confidential handling of sensitive information

E. Additional Sections (Optional)

Depending on your unique experiences and qualifications, you may consider adding additional sections to further enhance your HR Generalist resume. Some optional sections you could include are:

• Professional affiliations and memberships: Highlight any professional associations or memberships related to HR, such as SHRM or local HR networking groups.
• Languages: If you are proficient in multiple languages, especially those relevant to the organization or its workforce, include them in this section.
• Volunteer work or community involvement: Mention any volunteer work or community activities that showcase your dedication, leadership, or people-oriented skills.

Remember to customize your resume based on the specific job requirements and tailor it to the organization you’re applying to. Proofread your resume carefully for any typos or errors before submitting it.

By following these guidelines and structuring your HR Generalist resume effectively, you can increase your chances of impressing hiring managers and securing the HR Generalist position you desire.

Tips for Writing an HR Generalist Resume

When crafting your HR Generalist resume, there are several tips that can set you apart from other applicants. Here are five key tips to consider:

A. Using Keywords that Match the Job Description

When applying for an HR Generalist position, it is important to use keywords that match the job description. This not only shows that you understand the position, but also that you have the skills and experience necessary to excel in the role. Make sure you carefully review the job posting and incorporate relevant keywords throughout your resume.

B. Highlighting Accomplishments not Just Responsibilities

Many HR Generalist resumes fall into the trap of simply listing responsibilities without demonstrating the impact of those responsibilities. Instead of just listing your duties, highlight your accomplishments. For example, if you successfully led a company-wide performance review process or implemented a new employee onboarding program, make sure you showcase the positive results that came from those efforts.

C. Using Action Verbs to Showcase Achievements

Action verbs can give your resume a stronger impact by showcasing your achievements in a more dynamic way. Instead of using phrases like “responsible for” or “involved in,” use action verbs such as “led,” “developed,” or “implemented” to emphasize your contributions.

D. Quantifying Achievements with Metrics

Using metrics to support your accomplishments is a powerful way to demonstrate your impact. If you developed a training program that increased employee retention rates or reduced onboarding time, make sure you include those figures in your resume. Metrics add credibility to your achievements and show hiring managers the value you could bring to their organization.

E. Proofreading and Editing

It may seem obvious, but proofreading and editing your resume is a critical step in creating a strong impression. Simple typos or grammatical errors can be a red flag to hiring managers that you are not detail-oriented or don’t take your work seriously. Take the time to review your resume thoroughly and have someone else review it for you as well. A polished and error-free resume can make all the difference in catching the attention of a hiring manager.

Your HR Generalist resume should highlight your experience, skills, and accomplishments in a way that sets you apart from other applicants. By incorporating these five tips, you can create a powerful and effective resume that grabs the attention of hiring managers and leads to the next step in your career.

HR Generalist Resume Example

A. job description and qualifications.

As an HR Generalist, the primary responsibility is to handle a wide range of HR duties, from recruitment to employee relations. The following are the required qualifications and job responsibilities:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field.
• SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) certification.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of HR experience.
• Knowledge of HR best practices and compliance.

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage recruitment and hiring process from job postings to onboarding new hires.
• Create, maintain and update the employee handbook.
• Develop and maintain positive employee relations.
• Manage employee benefits and leave programs.
• Facilitate trainings, workshops, and team building exercises.

B. Sample HR Generalist Resume

1. professional summary.

A highly motivated and detail-oriented HR Generalist with 5 years of experience in recruitment, employee relations, and benefits management. Possess SHRM certification and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources. Proven track record of developing and implementing HR best practices, resulting in improved employee relations and increased retention rate.

2. Professional Experience

A. job description and accomplishments.

HR Generalist  XYZ Corporation June 2018 – Present

• Manage end-to-end recruitment process, from sourcing to onboarding.
• Conduct employee investigations and resolve grievances.
• Develop and implement employee recognition programs, resulting in a 20% increase in overall employee satisfaction.
• Initiated and led a team-building exercise, resulting in improved teamwork and a 15% increase in team productivity.
• Maintain employee files and records, ensuring compliance with company policy and legal requirements.

3. Education and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, ABC University, May 2015
• SHRM certification, 2016

4. Skills and Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of HR best practices and legal compliance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems).
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The HR Generalist Resume Example discussed the essential qualifications, job responsibilities, and skills required for an HR Generalist. The sample resume showcased a professional summary, professional experience, education and certifications, and skills and qualifications. By incorporating the above, HR Professionals can build an effective resume that can land them their next big HR job!

Common Mistakes to Avoid in an HR Generalist Resume

A solid HR generalist resume is a key factor in landing your dream job in human resources. To ensure your resume stands out from the crowd, take note of these common mistakes to avoid:

A. Including irrelevant Information

Your HR generalist resume should focus on your experience and qualifications that directly relate to the job you are applying for. Irrelevant information, such as hobbies or unrelated work experience, can detract from your key qualifications and make it harder for a potential employer to see the value you bring to their organization.

B. Providing too much personal Information

While it is important to showcase your personality and personal brand on your resume, it is crucial to avoid oversharing personal information. Details such as your marital status, religious beliefs or political affiliations can be seen as unnecessary and potentially distracting to an employer.

C. Failing to Quantify Achievements

Hiring managers want to see concrete evidence of your successes in previous roles. Failing to quantify your achievements with metrics, numbers or specific examples leaves a potential employer guessing about your capabilities and experience.

D. Grammatical and Spelling Errors

Attention to detail is crucial in an HR generalist role. Grammatical and spelling errors on your resume can send a message that you lack attention to detail and may not be the best fit for the role. Be sure to proofread your resume carefully and if possible, have someone else review it for errors.

By avoiding these common mistakes, your HR generalist resume will stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Best Practices for Applying to HR Generalist Roles

Applying for HR Generalist roles can be a competitive process, but there are several best practices that can improve your chances of standing out as a top candidate. Here are three key strategies to keep in mind:

A. Tailoring Cover Letter to the Job Description

One of the most important ways to make your application stand out is to tailor your cover letter to the specific job description. This involves reading the requirements and responsibilities of the position and highlighting how your skills and experience match up with those needs. Be sure to use specific examples from your work history to demonstrate your expertise in areas like employee relations, performance management, and talent acquisition. Personalizing your cover letter in this way can show employers that you are serious about the role and have taken the time to understand the company’s needs.

B. Building a Professional Network

Another way to gain a competitive edge in applying to HR Generalist roles is to build a strong professional network. Attend industry conferences and events, connect with HR professionals on LinkedIn, and join professional organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). These opportunities allow you to meet and learn from others in the field, and can open doors to potential job opportunities. Additionally, having a strong network can provide valuable references and mentorship opportunities as you grow in your career.

C. Following Up with Prospective Employers

Once you have applied for an HR Generalist role, it’s important to follow up with prospective employers. This shows your continued interest in the position and provides an opportunity to showcase your professionalism and communication skills. Start by sending a thank-you email after your initial application, thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm about the role. If you haven’t heard back within a week, follow up with a friendly email or phone call to inquire about the status of your application. While it’s important not to be too pushy or aggressive, demonstrating your interest and commitment to the position can leave a positive impression on employers.

By incorporating these best practices into your job search, you can increase your chances of landing your next HR Generalist role. Remember to highlight your relevant experience in your cover letter, build your professional network, and follow up with prospective employers to stand out as a top candidate in this competitive field.

Related Articles

• Career in Grocery Industry: Job Titles and Descriptions
• 50 Perfect Resume Objectives: How-to Guide 2023
• Verbal Communication: Mastering the Essential Soft Skill
• Strategies for Fostering Motivation in the Workplace
• Technical Writer Resume Examples and Tips: A Complete Guide

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

• Human Resources Resumes
• HR Resumes by Experience
• HR Resumes by Role

Writing Your HR Resume

A company’s most valuable resource is its employees, but it takes a great human resources manager to find, manage, and help those employees succeed within an organization.

From hiring to onboarding to benefits, you know how to help colleagues succeed within a company. When it comes to being a successful human resources (HR) professional, you put people first. But although you can spot a great resume from a mile away,  building a resume  of your own is an entirely different beast.

Our HR resume examples and guide have helped HR professionals learn  how to write a resume  and make a cover letter to  land highly coveted jobs with companies like Facebook and Lyft.  Writing an amazing human resources resume has never been easier!

Human Resources (HR) Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you have more than 10 years of experience, you can add a  resume summary  (also called a career summary) to list your HR experience and biggest achievements.
• Space is limited on your resume, but don’t worry—you’ll have more room to discuss the context of your experience in your  human resources cover letter , so you don’t have to try and cram everything onto your resume.
• Whenever possible, quantify the scale or impact of your work on your human resources resume. For example, how many employees did you help hire or onboard? What was the scale of the compensation plan you managed? How many disputes did you resolve? Numbers speak louder than words!

Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume

• Start by listing your hard skills (the tools and technologies you know) and the areas of HR in which you’re an expert, such as Disability or FMLA.
• Don’t make your skills section a laundry list; only include skills that you can readily demonstrate if asked. Honesty is key!
• You can help the reader out by  formatting your resume  with your most recent experience first. That way hiring managers see your best roles right away, which will encourage them to keep reading.

Human Resources (HR) Intern Resume

• Don’t be afraid to showcase your work and accomplishments! Use strong action words like “developed”, “spearheaded”, or “operated” to show hiring managers that you have what it takes to move into roles with more responsibility. 
• In just two to four sentences, let hiring managers know what company you want to work for, the job title you’re seeking, and what specific skills you have that will be an asset to the company.
• The key word here is  specific.  A vague resume objective won’t do you any favors!

Entry-Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

• Have you started a club, held an internship, or had a part-time job? These can all be valuable on your  entry-level human resources resume !
• You can also highlight your academic abilities by listing your GPA or any awards you won during college. You can even list relevant courses to really show off your skills!
• Some employers prefer resumes in different formats, so check the  Human Resources job description  if you need to use a  Google Doc template  or a  Microsoft Word template  to format your entry-level human resources resume correctly.

Junior Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

• Woah, cowpoke! Hold off for a minute and use our  resume checker  to ensure your Jr. human resources generalist resume is formatted correctly and that you’re using all the gold-standard grammar and punctuation rules.
• Leverage metrics about the number of employees at each company you’ve worked for, the percent increase in efficiency after implementing a new HR tool, the number of new hires you’ve added, or the increase in qualified applicants you’ve driven through recruitment strategies

Human Resources (HR) Assistant Resume

• Above all, be specific. A generic, vague objective only wastes valuable space. Instead, talk about your qualifications for the position at hand, then mention why you want this particular role with this specific company.
• For example, did you help plan an event that brought in an extra $3K in revenue? Or maybe you collaborated with your HR team to develop new onboarding processes that decreased the cost-per-hire by 21%. Whatever you did, find a way to tell the employer why your efforts mattered on your  human resources assistant resume .

Senior HR Manager Resume

• Tell your story with the help of your past work experiences! Enrich your senior HR manager resume by depicting the growth in your career. Mention your early career and how you’ve managed to go from simply revisiting policies to finally improving employee satisfaction rate as a manager.

Senior Human Resources Analyst Resume

• A senior human resource analyst resume that gleams with moments you introduced new processes, designed more effective systems, developed better problem-solving strategies, or launched products shows that you’re innovative. And guess what, recruiters have a thing for such candidates.

HRIS Analyst Resume

• As long as you list tools like Tableau, Oracle HCM Cloud, or even TSheets, you’ll be able to convince a would-be employer that you know the ins and outs of visualizing employee data that help an organization reduce its turnover rates.

HR Analyst Resume

• Make your HR analyst resume more eye-catching by choosing the “Standout” template and picking a yellow tone that is cool on the eyes. Back this visual appeal with a degree such as a Bachelor’s in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources that you’ve accomplished and show that you’re a professional in handling employee behavior and data.

HR Compliance Resume

• Use and highlight bullet points like “lowering instances of compliance violations by 17%” in your previous roles. These metrics will do the job of solidifying your interest and ability to ensure all workspace operations are compliant with state and federal laws.

Human Resources Recruiter Resume

• For example, you must show your unmatched competencies in skills and tools that track, assess, and help onboard new hires smoothly.

Human Resources Administrator Resume

• A great example you can use in your human resources administrator resume is underscoring your input in achieving a 42% increase in promotion rates for employees under your supervision.

Human Resources Associate Resume

• However, it’s not enough to state that you’re a team player; your human resources associate resume must also show your contribution in identifying, interviewing, and onboarding new hires.

Human Resources Executive Resume

• For instance, integrating Tableau’s HR data analytics dashboard to support decision-making would give recruiters a reason to pick your human resources executive resume ahead of others.

Human Resources (HR) Director Resume

• Use your work experience bullet points to showcase a variety of skills, like management, collaboration, data analysis, and mentorship. Think of each bullet point as a separate skill you want to showcase.
• Using a  resume template  can help you easily change stylistic elements to suit your fancy, like colors, font types, and layouts. Be creative and go for it!

Human Resources (HR) Coordinator Resume

• Set a timer for six seconds. Now, read through your resume until the timer runs out. What stands out the most?
• Hopefully, “numbers” was your top answer. Numbers are easier to scan, and they’re great at showing how you improved your workplace, so include them when you can!
• Try to include rates like ROIs, time and cost per hour, the staff you oversee, reviews, error reductions, efficiency improvements, and employee retention time.
• While you don’t have to use an outline, we would recommend it, especially if you haven’t  written a resume  in a while.

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

• Use small amounts of color (and different font types) to break up an otherwise-monotonous page of black text and draw attention to section headers.
• However, if you personalize your summary by calling out the employer and the role by name, as well as listing your most relevant achievements, you should add it in to help make a great first impression!

Human Resources (HR) Representative Resume

• While that’s understandable when you make a  resume outline , your resume must be polished and customized to highlight past experience that is applicable to the new job you desire.
• In general, we recommend including three to four work experience listings total so you can expand on each. Any more than four, and it starts to get pretty overwhelming!
• This way, you can quickly review your resume against the job description to  build a customized resume  for every job for which you apply!

Human Resources (HR) Data Analyst Resume

• Always double (and even triple)  check your resume  for any typos or grammatical errors before you turn it in. Even areas that you think are perfect, like your Contact Information, might have a missed “t” or an extra period.
• We’d recommend having a friend or colleague read your resume, too, since they’re more likely to notice mistakes. 
• Font : are you using two fonts, one for your body text and one for your headers?
• Layout : is your resume easy to read? Do you have headers for each section? 
• Style : does your resume convey your personality? If not, consider adding some color and different font types, provided your resume is still readable afterwards.

Human Resources (HR) Benefits Specialist Resume

• Numbers will encourage hiring managers to slow down and carefully read your text. Plus, they take less space then words and can demonstrate your capabilities faster. So, if you want to demonstrate your capabilities quickly, use numbers! 
• For example, adding a  resume objective  usually isn’t the best option unless you’ve just changed careers or are starting out in the HR field.

Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

• That internship you had back when pagers and Razr phones were a thing? Probably not relevant—instead, pick three to four recent positions where you’ve showcased your leadership abilities. 
• We’d recommend listing your experience in reverse-chronological order (aka putting your most recent work experience at the top) to increase the chances of making a good first impression right away.

Human Resources (HR) Recruitment Coordinator Resume

• That’s right. Your resume doesn’t need to be boring to command respect. In fact, a bold color can demonstrate confidence and individuality, which can make you an even more desirable candidate. 
• A note of caution: While more companies are valuing individuality and personality, there are times when muted colors (think deep navy, slate gray, or hunter green) may be more appropriate. This may be especially true if you’re applying to work in HR for a legal or investment firm.

Human Resources (HR) Specialist Resume

• If yes, use our human resources specialist resume to add a dedicated section where you can add certs and improve your chances of being hired.

Chief Human Resources (HR) Officer ( CHRO ) Resume

• With a cluttered template, you run the risk of leaving an employer overwhelmed and unsure of where to look on your resume. Using a clean template, like our Elegant, Official, Standout, or Professional templates, will let a recruiter focus on what’s important and help you put your best foot forward.

VP HR Resume

• If you’re applying for a senior-level position, like Vice President of HR, you’ve probably got a ton of experience under your belt. Still, your resume should ideally fit into one page, so select your most substantial achievements at each role to mention under your work experience in your VP HR resume.

Related resume guides

• Office Administrator
• Talent Acquisition
• Operations Manager

You could be an employer’s dream candidate, but you won’t be hired if your resume isn’t readable or logical. So before your professional resignation letter hits your current employer’s desk, walk through our guide on the top resume formats, what to include in your contact header, and how to make your HR resume readable for employers and ATS.

Top resume formats

The top three  resume formats  for 2024 are reverse-chronological, functional, and combination/hybrid. Each format showcases your aptitude for the job in different ways.

• Reverse-chronological : This format stresses your career progression by putting your most recent job at the top. It’s easy to skim, but it can reveal gaps in employment or career changes.
• Functional : Skills are the name of the game with this format, which highlights position-related and transferable skills alike. However, it can confuse ATS and recruiters since it’s not common.
• Combination/hybrid : It’s the best of both worlds with an in-depth skills section and a work history section, but it can be hard to format and isn’t ATS-friendly.

We believe the reverse-chronological format, as shown below, is the best choice for a human resources resume because it’s easy for ATS and recruiters to read quickly and tells a consistent, steady of your career.

Include the right details in your contact header

Your contact header is where you list (surprise, surprise) your contact information. In this section, you’ll want to include the following:

• Job title you’re seeking
• Email address
• Phone number
• City/State (optional)
• Professional links (optional but recommended)

Since your contact header is the first thing recruiters will read, you need to design it carefully. Place your contact header at the top of your resume, either centered or left-aligned, to make it easy to spot. If you’re struggling to fit everything, remove the optional elements or go down a font size.  Just make sure it’s no smaller than your resume body text . 

You should also adjust the color, font style, and layout. Giving your name a different font and a color block outline can showcase your personality and desired role. No matter what you do with your contact header, just ensure it’s easy to read and looks professionally appealing.

Our resume examples can offer inspiration if you’re struggling to format your contact header.

Make your HR resume readable for software and people

HR professionals know the hiring process is complex, so ATS can be a lifesaver when used well. That means that when you write your HR resume, keep ATS in mind to avoid getting the boot.

Our tips on formatting elements can help you format your resume to impress ATS and employers.

• Margins : Avoid margins smaller than half-inch or larger than one inch to give your resume a professional and clean appearance.
• Fonts : Sans-serif fonts are the best for ATS readability, but unusual fonts aren’t a good choice. Choose safe standards like Arial, Verdana, and Helvetica.
• Font sizes : Overly large or small fonts are overwhelming and hard to read. Use 10 or 12-point font sizes to keep reading a cinch.
• Header names : ATS systems aren’t programmed to recognize creative header names, so stick to industry standards like “work experience” and “skills.”
• Skills:  Include skill keywords listed on the job description to ensure your resume passes ATS inspection.
• Logical order : ATS and recruiters read resumes quickly, so organize your resume according to industry recommendations. Namely, put your contact header at the very top and put your work experience in the middle.
• One page : Recruiters have limited time to read endless qualifications, so keep your resume to a single page. 
• File type : Some ATS won’t recognize .dot, .txt, .jpg, or other file types that aren’t .docx. Submit your resume as a Word document and PDF to cover all your bases.

Write a Winning HR Resume

Writing an effective resume  is an overwhelming process, but human resource professionals can get it done in no time by writing only a section at a time.

In the following sections, we’ll introduce:

• Using an objective/summary effectively
• Listing your HR experience
• Choosing the appropriate skills
• Writing the education section and adding optional elements
• Tailoring your HR resume
• Editing your resume for maximum impact

Determine whether you should use an objective/summary

Many people will argue that a  resume objective  or summary is a waste of space that’s “me-centric.” Yet, a worthwhile objective or summary can showcase your qualifications and give a snapshot of  how  you can impact a business. 

Good objectives and summaries tell the recruiter why you should be hired in three sentences or less. They should highlight your skills while expressing how you’ll use your unique experience in the role for which you’re applying. 

Objectives are typically used when you’re changing careers or just starting out, and they focus on your strengths and transferable skills. Summaries are used for those who have been in their career field for some time, and they function as a snapshot of your long-standing career.

You may not need a summary or an objective, but if you do choose one, always tailor it to each job for which you apply. 

For example, generic objectives give nothing more than buzzwords like this:

• Talented human resources professional seeking new opportunities. Skilled at hiring, management, and communication.

This doesn’t tell the recruiter anything about the candidate’s unique experience (or  anything  about the candidate at all). A good objective is specific and personable, like this example:

• Compassionate and detail-driven HR professional with 3 years of experience. I want to use my interpersonal communication skills and conflict resolution abilities to increase employee satisfaction at CORE. My goal is always to foster relationships from the start of the onboarding process, resulting in a 15% decrease in ETR. 

Similar to the example above, notice how this savvy candidate tailors the career objective to the target business.

Summaries are excellent tools if you’re further along in your career. If you’re SHRM-SCP certified or have been in management for years, you should use a  summary for your resume . Summaries can be difficult, though, because you have to cram in years of experience, often resulting in something that looks like this:

• Experienced HR professional who is organized and passionate about people. I am certified and ready to bring my 10+ years of communication, training, and administration skills to your company. 

It’s not bad per se, but it’s vague and not tailored to the company. The one below gives examples of the applicant’s skills and what they’ll provide for their employer:

• Onboarding and employee training are my specialties as a PHR-certified manager with 10+ years of HR experience. I’m passionate about talent acquisition, coaching, interviewing, and compensation/benefits. I wish to use my skills to increase employee satisfaction and training effectiveness while decreasing time-to-hire and time-to-productivity at CORE.

Like the visual below, the above summary explains goals, specialties, and what the candidate can do for their future employer. When writing your objective or summary, make sure it’s detailed and concise to showcase your best qualities.

List your HR work experience

HR professionals wear a lot of hats, so it can be tempting to cram in as many past jobs as you can to showcase your adaptability and skills. This results in a resume that’s overloaded without a clear focus.

Instead, list  two to four of your most relevant job experiences . Doing so provides a clear story of your career and gives you room to expand on the responsibilities and skills you obtained from each position. 

If you lack formal job experience, list internships, volunteer/leadership work, and projects related to your desired HR position.

Write actionable bullet points

Bullet points are the bread and butter of your experience section, so your writing should be as specialized as possible in this area. Use active verbs and targeted language without resorting to personal pronouns to create the most impact. Consistency is key, so match your verb tenses and either use punctuation or avoid it altogether.

Excellent bullet points for an HR resume are distinct and concise. Use the following examples to help you craft amazing bullet points on your resume: 

• Enforced compliance with federal, state, and company employment laws
• Created individualized employee performance reviews in collaboration with management quarterly
• Educated employees on company policies, procedures, and compensation during employee training
• Established a standard set of onboarding processes, including interviewing, office setup, and software training

These bullet points showcase your specialized skills and highlight your accomplishments most effectively and efficiently. 

Harness the power of numbers

Metrics are frequently missed in HR resumes, but they’re a huge asset. They’re definitive proof that you’ve done your job well. So, you should aim to include metrics on 50 percent of your job description bullet points.

When discussing your job responsibilities, try to include some of the following  HR metrics :

• Improved time-to-hire
• Increased employee retention
• Increased employee satisfaction
• Increased employee performance

Below are some sample job description bullet points using the above metric types. 

• Established improved hiring processes, including quarterly job description updates, sourcing plans, and training/development opportunities for current staff, reducing the time to hire by 7 days
• Provided individualized guidance through weekly one-on-one meetings with new staff members, resulting in 13% higher employee retention than in previous years
• Distributed satisfaction surveys in meetings and incorporated feedback into procedures over 6 months, resulting in 50% higher satisfaction rates than the previous year
• Encouraged employees in weekly meetings with special shout-outs and consistently pointed employees to HRIS records in case of concerns regarding payroll, benefits, or training, resulting in 15% higher employee performance than the previous quarter

Choose your HR skills selectively

The skills section on an HR resume presents your attributes and qualifications in an easy way to read. Regardless of your experience, this section showcases why you’re the best candidate for the job because you possess the traits and knowledge the employer is seeking. 

This is why ATS prioritizes skill keywords to weed out candidates, so nailing this section is crucial. To ensure you stay on the recruiter’s list, choose skills that appear in the job description or those related to similar HR positions. 

Below are some good examples of hard and soft skills HR recruiters desire:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Legal Compliance
• Conflict Resolution
• Performance Management
• Compensation and Benefits
• HRIS or HRMS
• PHR Certification
• Planning and Strategy

These  resume skills  show experience in multiple areas, like recruiting and payroll, while also listing some hard skills like ATS knowledge. 

Include education, and decide on optional sections

As displayed in the visual below, you’ll need to include education, as most HR positions require a BA in Human Resources Management or associated degrees. Depending on your education level, years in the workforce, and any specializations and certifications, you may need to include different sections on your resume.

For example, if you have multiple certifications, it may not be wise to crowd them all in your objective/summary. Instead, list them in your skills section. 

You may wonder if you should add a  hobbies and interests section to your resume , but most HR resumes shouldn’t include these. Interests and hobbies can be useful in tipping the scale in your favor, but most often, they don’t increase your chances significantly.

However, if the job description or ad mentions company culture or the importance of interests, you should include an interests and hobbies section. For example, if you apply for an entertainment company position, including your love of Harry Potter and Star Wars might be beneficial.

Adjust your HR resume accordingly

Every job is different, so each resume you submit should also be unique. Human resources jobs will have things in common, so you don’t need to revamp your resume completely. Still, pay attention to the differences with each position. Tailor your  objective/summary ,  your skills , and  your work experience bullet points  to match the job description or ad for every job to which you’ve applied.

Edit your HR resume for optimal impact

Although it’s tempting, don’t submit your resume right away! Even though it’s technically complete, there could be mistakes you’ve overlooked.

Walk away for a day or two and let others read it. Once you’ve refreshed your mind, come back and  check your resume  one last time for any errors. Then make the necessary changes until your HR resume is spotless.

Nail the interview and get hired

The last step is to celebrate and prepare for your interview! You can use our  resume checker  to upload your resume and check it against our AI-powered tips or use our  resume builder , which allows you to create resumes from scratch. Just remember, whenever you apply for a job, you’ll want to tailor your resume again. Good luck—we’re rooting for you!

Human Resources Generalist Resume Samples

Human Resources Generalist plays a key role within the human resources department as these Generalist take charge of managing the overall HR Operations which includes managing the administration of HR policies, procedures, and programs. Core duties listed on Human Resources Generalist Resume include – recruiting and interviewing job applicants based on experience, skill and education, updating job requirements, analyzing staffing logistics, contacting application referrals, organizing and managing new employee orientation, maintaining employee records and paperwork, representing employers in recruiting events and managing committees on training, health and safety, wellness and culture as needed.

Key skills commonly seen on job resumes include – a deep knowledge of general human resource policies and procedures, a good understanding of employment law; outstanding proficiency in MS Office, HRIS systems and other related software applications; and strong people skills. To become eligible for this post, candidates must be educated to a degree level and hold qualifications related to Human Resources.

• Resume Samples
• Human Resources
• Human Resources Generalist

Human Resources Generalist II Resume

Summary : A self-motivated Human Resources Generalist II with over eleven years of comprehensive human resources experience in diverse industries. Strong interpersonal and communication skills together with the ability to discharge multiple responsibilities efficiently results in the achievement of company-wide human resource goals. A seasoned human resources business partner in corporate human resources setting as both a leader and individual contributor. Specialization areas, include employee relations, retention, employee engagement, etc

Skills : Staff Development, Conflict Resolution, Contingent Labor, Compliance, FMLA/ADA/EEO, HR Program/Project Management, Orientation And On-Boarding

Description :

• Managed company's transitional payroll processing with very short notice.
• Cut employee orientation time by a third through the development of tools that streamlined and organized human resources paperwork.
• Additionally, led an overhaul of the human resources filing system that improved record organization and restored full legal compliance.
• Processed new-hires, benefits, leave, termination, and payroll paperwork, ensuring 100% compliance with various laws and regulatory mandates and served as primary contact person answering management/staff questions on same.
• Co-authored sections of the company's employee handbook outlining payroll, meals, breaks, vacation benefits, company regulations, and performance expectations.
• Proactively recruited candidates through direct recruitment, work and travel programs, and other creative methods.
• Performed screening, interviewing, applicant assessment and presenting of candidates to hiring managers to finalize the recruitment process and assisted in hiring decision.
• Identified new, cost-effective resources of recruitment and tracked and reviewed the effectiveness of advertisement sources.
• Independently gathered facts, prepared responses, and determined appropriate company communication and as a result, gained a respectable position amongst all employees.

Junior Human Resources Generalist Resume

Objective : Junior Human Resources Generalist, adept in multitasking, employee relations, research, compliance, interfacing with management to act as a liaison between management and staff, and proven record for process improvements and redesign. Point of contact for human resources department. 

Skills : Relationship Building, Conflict Management, Microsoft Office, HRIS, Employee Relations, Recruiting, Training, Reporting

• Processed address changes and tax exemption changes for employees, processing personnel/payroll actions in national finance system and epic, processing combined federal campaign forms for employees.
• Maintained employee official personnel folders in established filing system accordance quality control OPF information in accordance with OPM guidelines.
• Reviewed all documents for accuracy as well as advising and providing assistance to employees in completing forms.
• Assisted with filing, xeroxing, faxing and typing revised changes to position descriptions.
• Provided the full scope of hiring which requires the knowledge and skill in applying a comprehensive body of human resources rules, procedures and technical methods concerning recruitment.
• Provided staffing program support duties which include assisting hr specialists with administrative tasks such as making job offers, preparing offer letters, scheduling appointments for suitability checks, etc.
• Interpreted and apply pay rules and regulations to resolve pay-setting errors or discrepancies.
• Analyzed pay and leave laws to assist in developing guidance and other informational materials for managers and employees.
• Reviewed all associated documents to ensure that all human resources policies and guidelines adhere.

HR Generalist / Admin Assistant Resume

Objective : Human Resources Generalist / Admin Assistant with More than 2 plus years of Human Resources experience with development, implementation, and administration of human resources policies and procedures to ensure compliance with employment laws. 

Skills : Payroll/Time & Attendance, Employee Benefits, Bookkeeping, Human Resources, Accounting, Implementation, Customer Service

• Scheduled interviews, checked references, processed background checks, coordinated drug screenings, and physicals.
• Prepared a variety of regular and special reports.
• Maintained personnel files and records. Scanned documents into Filehold.
• Coded human resources-related accounts payable items for payment.
• Assisted with the performance review process in relation to tracking and logging information.
• Participated in job fairs. Assisted with assigned research and special projects.
• Processed and reviewed employment application to evaluate the qualifications or eligibility of the applicant.
• Prepared a listing of vacancies and notifies eligible workers of position availability.
• Maintained and updated employee records to document personnel actions and changes in employee status.

HR Generalist Resume

Objective : Dedicated Human Resources Generalist with over 4 plus years of experience managing a full spectrum of human resources programs, services, and functions. Known for building positive relationships with external and internal contacts at diverse organizational levels. Updates and maintains employee data in HRIS employee database, as well as a variety of confidential and sensitive electronic and hard copy records and files. To obtain a position where my Human Resource and administrative skills can be utilized.

Skills : Employee Relations, Recruiting, Benefits Administration, Workers Compensation, ADP HRIS

• Provided exceptional customer service with regard to day-to-day HR issues.
• Reviewed and processed transactions concern salary increases, new hires, transfers and terminations.
• Responsible for candidate screening, reviewed and processed transactions concern salary increases, new hires, transfers, and terminations.
• Conducted new hire orientation which includes, medical bluecross/blueshield, united health care, dental, and vision.
• Ensured the proper onboarding process for new hires, and other payroll and benefits related paperwork.
• Developed and maintained positive working relationships between directors, managers and co-workers.
• Handled complex employee relations issues from inception through resolution.
• Provided coaching solution-oriented advice that maximizes performance and mutual win-win understandings.

Senior Human Resources Generalist Resume

Summary : Senior Human Resources Generalist with 11 years of progressive general human resources experience, including administrative support, program management, supervision, and payroll assistance. Highly effective in verbal and written communication and streamlining daily office operations. 

Skills : Employee Relations Staff Recruitment, Development, And Retention Performance Management Benefits And Leave Administration HRIS Systems Including Ultipro, Ceridian, WorkDay, And ADP

• Established and maintained effective, confidential working relationships with corporate, field, and company stores division employees.
• Performed full cycle recruitment, onboarding, employee maintenance, and offboarding of corporate employees.
• Provided consultation to supervisory and franchisees on the performance management process including coaching, counseling, career development and disciplinary action for staff.
• Worked with leadership and company stores management to create, revise and maintain current and accurate job descriptions.
• Provided consultation in employee or labor relations issues that included conducting effective, thorough and objective investigations of complex employee relations issues or complaints.
• Provided guidance to franchisees, management, and employees on the interpretation and application of company policies, practices, and processes, adhering to employee handbooks.
• Facilitated the development and administration of programs, procedures, and guidelines to assist management to align the workforce with the strategic goals.
• Maintained knowledge of benefits, leave administration and recruiting to effectively serve as a liaison to corporate and company stores employees as needed.
• Conducted monthly presentation to new franchise owners for basic hr laws, recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, and employee relations.

Human Resources Generalist / Recruiter Resume

Headline : Dedicated and successful Human Resources Generalist/Recruiter with expertise in supporting senior level executives. Professional with over 4 plus years' experience in serving clients within medical components/manufacturing, staffing agency, government contracting, and medical office settings. Experience in human resources generalist, human resources assistant, recruiting, customer service support, daily operational and administrative functions. Flexible and adaptable performer, able to handle multiple projects simultaneously, detail oriented and thrives in a face paced environment.

Skills : HR Management Training, Microsoft Word/Excel, Internet, PowerPoint, AS400, ADP, Kronos, Email

• Administered various human resources plans and procedures for all company personnel, developments and implementation of personnel policies and procedures, prepared and maintained employee handbook and policies and procedures manual.
• Participated in developing department goals, objectives, and systems, administered the compensation program, monitored the performance evaluation program, and revised as necessary.
• Processed biweekly payroll for over 300 employees in California and Nevada nonexempt and exempt employees through ADP total source.
• Maintained human resources information system records and compiled reports from the database.
• Recruited and interviewed candidates, provided management with hiring recommendations.
• Supported the recruiting process by creating job descriptions, posted jobs, filtered resumes, screened candidates, set up interviews, conducted background checked & references, negotiated salary offers, and prepared offer letters.
• Coordinated distribution/communication of projects including but not limited to employee policy, handbook, 401(k), open enrollment.
• Worked with safety specialist from ADP to implement all safety training to make sure we are in compliance.

Human Resources Generalist III Resume

Summary : Self-motivated with the ability to excel in a fast-paced environment, communicate effectively at all levels, manage competing priorities, and adapt readily to new challenges. To acquire a career with a reputable company where my creativity and business conscience attitude can further stabilize company production in the Human Resources department, moreover, dramatically burgeon the existing state and in return challenge my own business expertise.

Skills : PeopleSoft, Lotus Notes Database/WEB, Recruiting Collaboration Portal, ResumeWare, Monster, Adobe Reader, Guardian I-9 Database

• Primarily responsible for handling recruiting and benefit administration for a business unit that at times, has numbered over 1,000 employees.
• Knowledgeable in utilizing PeopleSoft, Resumeware and Lotus Notes databases in the execution of job duties.
• Secondary responsibilities included other human generalist duties such as workers' compensation, leaves of absences, compensation and employee relation issues.
• Generated the offer letters/pans, data entry process into both the Resumeware and Peoplesoft providing recruiting queries/reports.
• Processed background checks by entering the background information in the LexisNexis database.
• Followed up with new hires on their background check if there are any discrepancies.
• Acted as HIPAA officer for the division, responsible for interfacing with employees on benefits issues.
• Responsible for conducting benefit orientations; coordinating the open enrollment briefings (benefits) on the government sites and offices, and communicating benefits changes.
• Performed a variety of professional level tasks in multiple functional areas of HR, including compensation, recruiting, professional development, and employee relations.

Headline : Human Resources Generalist with 5 plus years of experience working in all aspects of Human Resources. Looking to gain employment immediately. Seeking an opportunity that will allow me to showcase my core competencies and specialties, and allow for continuous growth and development professionals as well. To join an organization where I can maximize my skills and experience in HR to contribute to the success of the organization, and whose values for HR are aligned with those of my own.

Skills : Leadership Development, Interviewing, Recruiting, FMLA, Salary Negotiation, ADP, Peoplesoft, Kronos, Employee Engagement, Unemployment Response

• Serving as the first point of contact on HR related questions and partners with the corporate subject matter experts on the implementation of company-wide employee strategies.
• Partnering with the talent acquisition team and management to staff and recruit top talent to, include attending career fairs, interviewing, selection and onboarding of new hires.
• Planning and conducting new employee orientation and creating onboarding programs to foster employee engagement.
• Overseeing worker's compensation to include reporting of claims, follow up with doctors/claims adjusters work status of employees.
• Managing employee relations situations at assigned locations, conducting investigations as needed, providing recommendations and findings to parties involved.
• Helping to monitor payroll and overtime through collecting, analyzing and reporting data via Kronos.
• Working with all managers/supervisors to ensure that all employees receive a mid-year and annual performance review, assisting management in assessing talent via 9 box rating system.
• Promoting rewards and recognition programs and other activities to engage and promote positive employee morale.

Summary : Highly motivated Senior Human Resources Generalist with over 17 years of broad-based experience, a sincere passion for employee engagement, and demonstrated ability to build organizational capability by collaborating with management and other HR Consultants on executing HR strategy. Highly passionate, persuasive and articulate. Able to achieve results. To maintain and enhance human resources productively in an organization, in which my accumulated knowledge and exceptional organizing skills in Human Resources can be utilized.

Skills : Employee Relations, Employment Law, Affirmative Action Programs, Benefits, Microsoft Office, E-Verify Applications, Onboarding, Sharepoint, Human Resources

• Assisted with all aspects of recruiting for professional staff positions, including posting positions, maintaining applicant tracking software, initial telephone screens of applicants and scheduling interviews;
• Assisted with HR tasks, including auditing overtime slips, responding to employment verifications, monitoring 401(k) requests and processing 1095C forms.
• Coordinated or assist with special projects and events such as staff retirements, holiday parties, Staff Appreciation Day and the annual Anniversary event.
• Assisted with the administration of the firm-wide benefit programs, coordinated employment termination process.
• Monitored Professional Staff Handbooks and other employment documents for all offices and suggested updates/revisions as appropriate;
• Maintained and audited vendor eligibility files and process benefit vendor invoices.
• Participated in the planning and execution of associate events planned by the Human Resources Department.
• Developed associate communications network within the hotel, via bulletin boards, department communication boards, posters, and flyers.
• Acted as a liaison to management for all associates.

Human Resources Generalist Resume

Objective : Passionate, results-oriented Human Resources Generalist with experience in planning and directing areas of Human Resources that includes: employment law, employee relations, onboarding, performance management, policy & procedures, recruitment, affirmative action, HRIS, safety, and training. 

Skills : Microsoft, Recruiting, Employee Relations, Onboarding, Coaching, Relationship Building, Conflict Management, HRIS

• Managing the recruitment and selection process for the front line and back office positions.
• Conducting new employee orientations and serving as a consultant to management for the onboarding process.
• Providing leadership development through coaching, training, and presentations (hard and soft skills).
• Coordinating and conducting employee development training (hard and soft skills).
• Partnering with call center management to increase employee engagement and employee retention.
• Assessing training needs and developing the appropriate training to meet those needs.
• Working with managers and employees to address all types of employee relation issues, considering all interests.
• Developing and conducting organization development interventions for employee relation matters.
• Managing employee training database to ensure employees are in compliance with appropriate training.

Table of Contents

Recent posts, download this pdf template., creating an account is free and takes five seconds. you'll get access to the pdf version of this resume template., choose an option., unlock the power of over 10,000 resume samples., take your job search to the next level with our extensive collection of 10,000+ resume samples. find inspiration for your own resume and gain a competitive edge in your job search., get hired faster with resume assistant., make your resume shine with our resume assistant. you'll receive a real-time score as you edit, helping you to optimize your skills, experience, and achievements for the role you want., get noticed with resume templates that beat the ats., get past the resume screeners with ease using our optimized templates. our professional designs are tailored to beat the ats and help you land your dream job..

• Book a Speaker

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus convallis sem tellus, vitae egestas felis vestibule ut.

Error message details.

Reuse Permissions

Request permission to republish or redistribute SHRM content and materials.

Human Resource Generalist

 Job Summary:

The Human Resource Generalist will run the daily functions of the Human Resource (HR) department including hiring and interviewing staff, administering pay, benefits, and leave, and enforcing company policies and practices.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• May oversee the scheduling, assignments, and daily workflow of subordinate staff in the department.
• May assist with constructive and timely performance evaluations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Reviews, tracks, and documents compliance with mandatory and non-mandatory training, continuing education, and work assessments. This may include safety training, anti-harassment training, professional licensure, and aptitude exams and certifications.
• Recruits, interviews, and facilitates the hiring of qualified job applicants for open positions; collaborates with departmental managers to understand skills and competencies required for openings.
• Conducts or acquires background checks and employee eligibility verifications.
• Implements new hire orientation and employee recognition programs.
• Performs routine tasks required to administer and execute human resource programs including but not limited to compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development.
• Handles employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff.
• Attends and participates in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Maintains knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organizations HRIS and talent management systems.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• At least one year of human resource management experience preferred.
• SHRM-CP a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities.

Related Content

A 4-Day Workweek? AI-Fueled Efficiencies Could Make It Happen

The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the ensuing expected increase in productivity and efficiency, could help usher in the four-day workweek, some experts predict.

How One Company Uses Digital Tools to Boost Employee Well-Being

Learn how Marsh McLennan successfully boosts staff well-being with digital tools, improving productivity and work satisfaction for more than 20,000 employees.

Advertisement

Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace

​An organization run by AI is not a futuristic concept. Such technology is already a part of many workplaces and will continue to shape the labor market and HR. Here's how employers and employees can successfully manage generative AI and other AI-powered systems.

HR Daily Newsletter

New, trends and analysis, as well as breaking news alerts, to help HR professionals do their jobs better each business day.

Success title

Success caption

CAREER GUIDES

• HR Generalist Overview
• HR Generalist Career Path
• How to Become an HR Generalist
• HR Generalist Salary
• HR Generalist Job Description
• HR Generalist Skills
• HR Generalist Interview Questions
• HR Generalist Resume
• HR Generalist Cover Letter
• HR Generalist vs. HR Administrator
• HR Generalist Behavioral Interview Questions
• Human Resources Career Path
• HR Resume Examples
• HR Situational interview Questions
• HR Operations Interview Questions
• HR Operations Skills
• Human Resources Intern Overview
• HR Intern Resume
• How to Become an HR Intern
• HR Intern Job Description
• HR Intern Skills
• HR Intern Interview Questions
• HR Assistant Overview
• HR Assistant Cover Letter 
• How to Write an HR Assistant Resume
• HR Assistant Job Description
• HR Assistant Salary
• HR Assistant Interview Questions
• HR Specialist Overview
• How to Write an HR Specialist Resume
• HR Specialist Skills
• HR Specialist Interview Questions
• HR Specialist Salary
• HR Specialist vs. HR Generalist
• HR Specialist Cover Letter
• Human Resources Administrator Overview
• HR Administrator Salary
• HR Administrator Job Description
• HR Administrator Resume
• How to Become an Human Resources Administrator
• Human Resources Administrator Skills
• HR Coordinator Overview
• How to Become an HR Coordinator
• HR Coordinator Interview Questions
• HR Coordinator Skills
• HR Coordinator Job Description
• HR Coordinator Salary
• HR Coordinator Resume
• HR Manager Overview
• HR Manager Career Path
• How to Become a HR Manager
• HR Manager Interview Questions
• HR Manager Resume
• HR Manager Cover Letter
• HR Manager Skills
• HR Manager Salary
• HR Manager Job Description
• HR Specialist vs. HR Manager
• HR Operations Manager Overview
• HR Operations Manager Salary
• HR Operations Job Description Examples
• HR Operations Specialist Overview
• HR Operations Specialist Salary
• Senior HR Manager Overview
• Senior HR Manager Salary
• Senior HR Manager Job Description
• Onboarding Specialist Overview
• HR Onboarding Specialist Job Description
• Onboarding Specialist Interview Questions
• Onboarding Specialist Salary
• HRIS Analyst Overview
• HR Analyst Career Path
• HRIS Analyst Career Path
• How to Become an HRIS Analyst
• HRIS Analyst Interview Questions
• HR Analyst Job Description
• HR Analyst Salary
• HR Business Overview
• HR Business Partner Career Path
• HR Business Partner Skills
• HR Business Partner Interview Questions
• How to Become an HR Business Partner
• HR Business Partner Salary
• HR Business Partner Job Description
• HR Business Partner Resume
• HR Business Partner Cover Letter
• Google HR Business Partner Interview Questions
• HR Business Partner Behavioral Interview Questions
• HR Business Partner Model
• Senior HR Business Partner Overview
• Senior HR Business Partner Salary
• Senior HR Business Partner Job Description
• Human Resources Director Overview
• How to Become an HR Director
• HR Director Skills
• HR Director Interview Questions
• HR Director Salary
• HR Director vs HR Manager
• HR Director Cover Letter 
• HR Director Resume
• Director of People Overview
• How to Become a Director of People
• Director of People Skills
• HR Executive Overview
• HR Executive Skills
• How to Become an HR Executive
• HR Executive Interview Questions
• HR Executive Job Description
• HR Executive Resume
• HR Executive Cover Letter
• VP of HR Overview
• How to Become a VP of HR
• How to Write a VP of HR Resume
• VP of HR Skills
• VP of HR Job Description
• VP of HR Salary
• Change Champion Overview
• Change Manager Overview
• Operational Change Manager Overview
• How to Become a Change Manager
• Change Manager Salary
• Change Management Interview Questions
• Change Manager Skills
• Change Manager Job Description
• Change Manager vs. Project Manager
• HR Consultant Overview
• HR Transformation Consultant Overview
• HR Technology Consultant Overview
• HR Consultant Job Description
• Performance Management Overview
• Employee Performance Metrics
• Performance Improvement Plan
• Onboarding Overview
• Employee Onboarding Checklist
• Talent Management Overview
• 9 Box Talent Review Grid
• Best Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scale
• Skill Matrix
• Job Evaluation Methods
• Full Life Cycle Recruiting
• HRIS Systems
• Performance Management Software
• Employee Onboarding Software
• HCM Software
• HR Analytics Software
• Change Management Software
• Change Management Tools
• HR Analytics Overview
• People Analytics Overview
• HR Metrics Dashboard Examples
• Predictive Analytics in HR
• Employee Turnover Rate
• Employee Engagement Overview
• Employee Appreciation Ideas
• Employee Incentive Programs
• Team Building Activities
• Turnover Rate
• Employee Misconduct
• What is Employee Feedback?
• Positive Employee Feedback
• Employee Exit Interview Questions
• HR Training Overview
• Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Overview
• Inclusion vs Diversity
• Diversity and Inclusion Training Programs
• Diversity and Inclusion Mission Statement
• Diversity and Inclusion Discussion Topics
• Diversity and Inclusion Survey Questions
• Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
• Discrimination Training Programs
• Best Sensitivity Training Programs
• Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Programs
• HR Certifications
• Human Resources Management Certification
• Diversity and Inclusion Certification
• HR Generalist Certification
• HR Business Partner Certification
• Diversity and Inclusion Certification Harvard
• Cornell University Diversity Certification
• SHRM Certification CP and SCP
• Strategic Human Resource Management Overview
• Organizational Design
• Leadership Development Plan
• Leadership Competencies
• HR Scorecard
• HR Operations
• HR Policies
• HR Audit Overview
• HR Audit Checklist
• Payroll Tax Holiday
• Flexible Benefits Overview
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Time Off Request Form
• Bereavement Leave
• Sabbatical Leave
• How to Calculate Fringe Benefits
• Fringe Benefits Examples
• Flexible Benefits Examples
• Disadvantages of Flexible Benefits
• How to Implement Flexible Benefits
• Benefits Specialist Overview
• Benefits Coordinator Overview
• Interview Appointment Letter Templates
• Verification of Employment Letter Templates
• Employee Handbook Templates
• Letter of Recommendation for Employee Template
• Termination Letter Templates
• Incident Report Template
• New Hire Paperwork Templates
• Exit Interview Template Examples

Home › HR Career Path › What Does an Human Resources Generalist Do? › HR Generalist Job Description Example: Roles and Responsibilities

HR Generalist Job Description Example: Roles and Responsibilities

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The HR generalist role is one of the most common job roles within the human resources field. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it doesn’t focus on one aspect with HR and an HR generalist is well-versed in handling diverse responsibilities. However, such aspects mean that creating an HR generalist job description is hardly straightforward.

A suitable candidate for the HR generalist role would need to be a jack of all trades with the HR field. They should also have an extensive skill set and significant experience within the field. Organizations that wish to attract such an individual have to carefully craft the HR generalist job description and ensure that they include all relevant details.

This article gives you a quick overview of the HR generalist role, how to craft a world class job description to attract talented candidates, and what should be the minimum requirements. If you’re looking to learn more via video then watch below. Otherwise, skip ahead.

The HR Generalist Role

The HR generalist is an entry-level position in the HR department. Organizations hire HR generalists when their HR team has at least an HR manager and a few HR specialists and they need some hands-on assistance for the daily tasks. Therefore, one of the core HR generalist duties is to assist senior HR professionals, like the HR director, in their tasks.

The HR department relies on generalists to manage human resources operations daily. They work with the HR manager or HR coordinator to organize training programs, policy administration, hiring procedures, and other administrative tasks in the human rsources department.

Organizations should look for an human resource generalist when they need someone with diverse abilities to take care of core administrative and strategic responsibilities in the HR department. Creating a suitable job description will help them find such individuals and hire them as their HR generalists.

HR Generalist Job Description Example

An intelligently written HR generalist job description efficiently communicates all the organization’s expectations from the role. Therefore, the organization must review its requirements and include precise details about the HR generalist responsibilities. On the other hand, a poorly written job description will invite many unsuitable candidates and hurt the effectiveness of the recruitment process, creating further delays.

The HR generalist role is versatile, and since it involves many diverse duties, different companies define the role differently. Regardless, here is an example of a job description for an HR generalist role:

“The HR generalist will be responsible for assisting HR managers and other personnel within the human resources team, regardless of their division. Among other duties, they have to handle employee data, coordinate employee benefits and incentives, manage hiring processes, and conduct the onboarding of new hires, to name a few. The ideal candidate would be competent in handling different human resources responsibilities and have sufficient professional experience along with strong communication abilities.”

The above description acts as a concise job summary for the HR generalist role as well.

HR Generalist Job Responsibilities Example

An human resource generalist has a set of responsibilities that touch every corner of the human resources field. While your organization may have different expectations, here are some general responsibilities that every HR generalist has to handle:

• Use HR software to manage payroll and employee benefits, including bonuses, leaves, and conduct absences administration
• Organize hard and soft copies of employee records
• Process documentation and prepare reports relating to performance evaluations
• Coordinate employee satisfaction surveys and give actionable insights to improve employees’ experience
• Support employees with efficient problem-solving when any human resources issues arise
• Communicate with public services when needed
• Reinforce the company policies, rules, and procedures to ensure employees’ safety
• Oversee employee labor and HR federal laws and regulations to assure compliance
• Review and select resumes during hiring processes and update database
• Assist in the coordination of staffing and recruitment processes
• Plan onboarding strategies and perform new employees orientation to deliver an exceptional early experience
• Recommend and develop employee relations practices to foster a positive employer-employee relations
• Maintain the work structure by updating job requirements and job descriptions for all positions according to HR objectives
• Conduct and analyze exit interviews and make actionable recommendations based on data
• Ensure legal compliance by monitoring and implementing applicable human resource federal and state requirements and conducting investigations
• Arrange seminars, workshops, additional HR training, and conferences based on each department’s needs

HR Generalist Job Requirements Example

Outlining the general responsibilities for the HR generalist of their HR team is beneficial for the organization since it also helps them narrow down on the requirements they should expect from a suitable candidate.

Regardless, here are some general qualifications a significantly experienced HR generalist would have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or related field
• 3+ years of experience working in the human resources field
• At least one year of experience in labor relations and compliance
• At least one year of experience managing compensation and benefits programs
• 2+ years implementing tactics to improve performance management
• Ability to develop and manage interpersonal relationships at all levels of the company
• High level of customer service skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Capacity to apply discretion and maintain a high level of confidentiality when handling sensitive information

These are the most common responsibilities, skills, and requirements in HR generalist job descriptions. However, every organization should base these details on the human resources department’s particularities.

For example, the number of years of experience depends on the level of responsibilities that will be on your new hire’s plate. Suppose the HR team already has an HR manager or coordinator who can coach the newly hired HR generalist. Then, the organization can safely require less professional experience. Similarly, if the HR generalist handles payroll processing and tax compliance, then the job description should demand extensive experience in labor laws and regulations.

If you want to gain crucial human resources knowledge that can help you become a resourceful HR generalist, you should check out our top-notch HR certifications at HR University.

The HR generalist role involves many different human resources abilities. For example, they have to help ensure efficient business operations, manage employee performance programs, and more. Therefore, you must incorporate all the critical elements when you create the job description for the HR generalist role.

Specifically, you should outline your company’s mission, the human resources team’s position within the company, the associated job duties, and the required skills and capabilities. Such details will help you create an intelligent HR generalist job description that increases the chances of your organization hiring the right individual for the job.

Here are some common questions people ask about the HR generalist role.

Why Do Some Organizations Have Multiple HR Generalists?

Larger organizations have bigger human resources departments since they have more employees to manage and coordinate. Moreover, such HR departments employ multiple people for important positions like the HR manager, coordinator, and administrator, to name a few.

Since HR generalists are versatile professionals with expertise in multiple areas of human resources, larger organizations hire for multiple such roles to keep their HR running smoothly.

How Important Are HR Generalists for an HR Department?

HR departments have many specialized roles that handle a particular aspect of human resources. For example, there are roles specifically for benefits and incentives coordination, ensuring diversity and inclusivity, maintaining employee records, and conducting hiring processes. However, very few roles have to deal with all such aspects, and one such role is the HR generalist position.

They assist with many different HR procedures and handle critical day to day management. They are also well-versed in using HR information systems to help the organization achieve its objectives. Additionally, they help create innovative employee programs. After all, efficient employee performance programs suggest that the organization is serious about its productivity.

If you are new to Human Resources and are looking to break into an HR Generalist role, we recommend taking our HR Generalist Certification Course , where you will learn how to build your skillset in human resources, build your human resources network, craft a great HR resume, and create a successful job search strategy.

We offer a wide variety of programs and courses built on adaptive curriculum and led by leading industry experts.

• Work on projects in a collaborative setting
• Take advantage of our flexible plans and community
• Get access to experts, templates, and exclusive events

Become a Certified HR Manager. The HR Management Certification helps to demonstrate knowledge and skills in best practices for managing employees, handling disciplinary action, and other important aspects of the job.

Become a Certified HR Generalist. After taking this certification course, you'll better understand how to become a great HR Generalist and a letter of certification to showcase to employers and colleagues.

Become a Certified HR Business Partner. The certificate has become a popular credential because it can help individuals seeking advancement within their current organization and those looking to change jobs or industries.

Please check your email for a confirmation message shortly.

Join 5000+ Technical Writers

Get our #1 industry rated weekly technical writing reads newsletter.

Your syllabus has been sent to your email