If you’re looking for a career that combines working with people, solving problems, and helping a company succeed, then Human Resources (HR) might be the perfect fit. HR is a growing field with plenty of opportunities—job openings are expected to increase by 8% by 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means there’s strong demand for HR professionals, making it a great choice for anyone searching for a secure and meaningful career.
What’s even better is the chance to grow in this field. HR professionals often move up the ladder to become HR managers or even take leadership roles within companies. Working in HR also helps you build skills like teamwork, communication, and organization, which can be useful in many other jobs, such as management, recruiting, or consulting.
One of the most exciting roles in HR is the HR Generalist. It’s a role that keeps you on your toes and allows you to make a real impact on both employees and the company. Curious about the day-to-day responsibilities?
What Is a Job as an HR Generalist?
An HR Generalist is someone who wears many hats in a company. Their job is to make sure everything in the workplace runs smoothly, from hiring people to sorting out any issues employees might have. They’re a key part of the team, helping both workers and managers stay on the same page.
What Does It Take to Become an HR Generalist?
Working as an HR Generalist means you need a mix of important skills. Here are some of the top ones:
1. Communication Skills
You need to be good at talking to all kinds of people. For example, you might explain a complicated benefits plan in simple terms or manage a tough conversation during a dispute.
2. Organizational Skills
This job keeps you busy! You’ll need to organize interviews, track employee details, and meet deadlines without getting overwhelmed.
3. Problem-Solving Skills
Every day brings new challenges. For instance, if many employees are struggling with the same issue, you’ll figure out how to fix it in a fair way.
4. People Skills
Being friendly and understanding is important. If someone has a concern, they should feel comfortable coming to you for help.
5. Tech Skills
You’ll work with software to handle things like employee records, payroll, and schedules. Being comfortable with tools like Excel or HR software is a big plus.
6. Flexibility
No two days are the same. One day, you might be interviewing job candidates, and the next, you’ll be organizing an employee training session. Being adaptable makes it easier to handle this variety.
What Are the To-Do List Duties of an HR Generalist?
If you’re considering a role as an HR Generalist, it’s good to know what the job looks like day-to-day. While every day can bring new challenges, there’s a list of regular duties you’ll be expected to handle. These tasks are what help keep the workplace running smoothly and ensure employees feel supported. Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the to-do list for an HR Generalist:
1. Keeping Employee Records Organized
This means making sure all employee details—like job titles, performance reviews, and vacation days—are updated and filed properly. Imagine someone asking about how much sick leave they have left; you’d need to quickly look up their record to help them out.
2. Hiring and Interviewing People
One big part of the job is helping the company find the right people. You’ll write up job postings, sort through resumes, and set up interviews. During interviews, you’ll ask questions to figure out if a candidate has the right skills and if they fit the company’s culture.
3. Welcoming New Hires
Once someone is hired, you’ll make sure their first few days go smoothly. This means explaining the workplace rules, giving them the tools they need, and introducing them to their teammates. A good start helps them feel comfortable right away.
4. Helping with Employee Concerns
Sometimes people run into problems at work—maybe they’re having trouble with a coworker or don’t understand their benefits. It’s your job to listen, mediate, and find solutions to keep things running smoothly. Being approachable is key here.
5. Making Sure the Company Follows the Rules
Every company has to follow laws about work, like safety rules and fair hiring practices. You’ll double-check that everything is being done correctly to avoid any legal trouble. For example, you’ll make sure the company hires fairly without any kind of discrimination.
6. Setting Up Training Sessions
Employees need to grow their skills to do their best work. You’ll organize sessions to teach people leadership skills, communication tips, or other important tools that help them improve.
7. Managing Payroll and Benefits
You’ll make sure everyone gets paid what they’re supposed to and on time. If someone has questions about their paycheck or benefits, like health insurance details, you’ll be the person to walk them through it.
8. Planning Fun Activities
A happy workplace is a productive one, so you might plan team outings, holiday celebrations, or wellness programs. These activities help build a sense of community and keep employees motivated.
9. Assisting with Performance Reviews
You’ll help managers review how employees are doing. This might mean organizing review meetings, creating feedback forms, or helping employees set goals for improvement. Recognizing achievements is also a big part of this process.
10. Checking How Employees Feel About Work
You’ll keep an eye on employee satisfaction by sending surveys or having casual check-ins. If there are common concerns, you can work to fix them and make the workplace better for everyone.
Qualifications for Becoming an HR Generalist
If you want to become an HR Generalist, there are a few things you’ll need. Most employers look for a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a similar field. Degrees in Psychology or Sociology can also work if you’re drawn to helping people and managing teams.
To stand out, you might want to get an HR certification. For example, the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certifications show you know your stuff when it comes to HR practices and laws.
What about experience? Some HR Generalist roles might be open to beginners, but most jobs prefer candidates with 1-3 years of prior HR experience. This might mean starting as an HR Assistant or Coordinator and working your way up. This experience helps you learn important skills like recruiting or solving workplace problems.
Is the HR Generalist Role Entry-Level?
Not exactly. It’s not the very first step in an HR career for most people, but it’s also not a senior-level position. Think of it as a middle ground—companies often want someone with basic HR knowledge and some hands-on practice in the field.
How Much Do HR Generalists Earn?
HR Generalist pay can vary depending on where you work and how much experience you have. On average, you can expect to make between $50,000 and $70,000 per year in the U.S. Beginners might start closer to $45,000, while experienced HR professionals can earn more, with some going well over $80,000.
The HR Generalist job is an exciting and meaningful career that lets you work with people, solve problems, and improve workplaces. From hiring the right team members to helping employees succeed, your efforts can make a big difference every day. If working with people and balancing a variety of tasks sounds like something you’d enjoy, this could be the perfect role for you. With the right mix of education, certifications, and experience, you can build a career that’s both fulfilling and impactful.