Sign up for our newsletter
Join our newsletter to receive the latest updates and insights in online education. Get exclusive access to in-depth articles, expert advice, and special offers tailored for your educational journey.
Join our newsletter to receive the latest updates and insights in online education. Get exclusive access to in-depth articles, expert advice, and special offers tailored for your educational journey.
This bar graph shows the annual salary for Human Resources Generalists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Human Resources Generalists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 8%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Hire employees and process hiring-related paperwork.
Interpret and explain human resources policies, procedures, laws, standards, or regulations.
Maintain current knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action guidelines and laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If you're aiming to start a career as a Human Resources Generalist, you're looking at a role that is central to the functioning of any organization. HR Generalists have a broad knowledge of human resources functions, from hiring and onboarding to compliance with labor laws and employee relations. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can become an HR Generalist.
Before diving into the educational and experiential requirements, it’s crucial to understand what an HR Generalist does. Typically, an HR Generalist:
To become an HR Generalist, you will generally need at least a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Some relevant majors include:
In some cases, employers may require or prefer candidates with a master’s degree in human resources or labor relations, particularly for more senior positions.
Practical experience is vital in the HR field. You can gain experience through:
Although not always required, professional certification can enhance your career prospects and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Consider obtaining certifications such as:
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) from SHRM
These certifications typically require passing an exam and may require continuing education credits to maintain.
In addition to formal education and experience, successful HR Generalists possess a specific set of skills. These include:
The HR field is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay current on the latest trends and legal changes. This can be achieved through:
Networking is key in any career, but especially in HR where connections can lead to job opportunities and professional development. Enhance your network by:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming an HR Generalist. Remember, this role requires a blend of education, experience, skills, and ongoing learning to keep up with the dynamic nature of human resources.
A Human Resources (HR) Generalist is a professional who handles a wide range of responsibilities within the HR department. These responsibilities can include recruiting and staffing, performance management, benefits administration, employee relations, and compliance with labor laws.
To become an HR Generalist, you typically need:
Some of the key skills for an HR Generalist include:
The career path for an HR Generalist might include the following steps:
Yes, advancing your career can often involve additional education or certifications. Consider the following options:
HR Generalists are typically in demand as they play a vital role in managing a company’s workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of human resources specialists to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
For current employment statistics and information on this occupation, you can visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
HR Generalists are employed across various industries since most organizations need staff to manage employee-related functions. Industries include:
While traditionally an on-site role due to the nature of the work, many companies now offer remote work options for HR Generalists. This shift has been accelerated by the rise of digital communication platforms and cloud-based HR systems.
Salaries for HR Generalists can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, education level, and company size. According to data from sites like PayScale or Glassdoor, entry-level positions may start at a lower range, while experienced HR Generalists can earn significantly more.
For accurate salary information tailored to your region, you can visit PayScale or Glassdoor.
The work-life balance for an HR Generalist can vary depending on the employer and specific job demands. However, many professionals in this field report a balanced work-life situation, with opportunities for flexible scheduling and occasionally remote work. It's important to inquire about work-life balance during your job search to ensure alignment with your personal needs.