The Role of a Human Resources Generalist
Human resources generalists provide comprehensive, multifaceted support to their organizations, often serving a core role in their human resources (HR) department. Compared to professionals in more specialized HR roles like talent acquisition or benefits and compensation specialists, HR generalists have broad and extensive knowledge across all areas of human resources.
The demand for HR generalists is on the rise, and earning a master’s degree in human resources management can prepare aspiring professionals to pursue any of a number of high-paying, competitive HR roles across virtually every industry.
What Is a Human Resources Generalist?
A human resources generalist, or HR generalist, manages human resources-related tasks and functions within a company. They are responsible for a broad range of activities, from the implementation of policies and procedures to the development of marketing campaigns designed to attract top industry talent.
Work Settings and Environments
Human resources generalists work in virtually every industry, including administrative and employment services, science and technology, and healthcare and social assistance. Most human resources generalists work a typical 40-hour week, Monday through Friday, but some may also work nights, weekends, and even holidays depending on their employer’s needs and objectives.
While the majority of HR generalists work in an office for a specific company, some work for a third-party firm and are outsourced to cover other companies’ specific HR needs. They may also travel to college campuses or job fairs to help recruit new talent, particularly to fill more prestigious roles.
Day-to-Day Duties and Responsibilities
Due to their broad knowledge, HR generalists may perform a wide range of duties regularly. Their responsibilities often include the following:
- Recruiting and hiring employees
- Keeping detailed and up-to-date employee records
- Creating guidelines for their organization on hiring, compensation, and employee retention
- Working with other departments to find ways to motivate employees
- Conducting regular and timely employee evaluations
- Researching new trends and ideas related to modern human resources
- Writing and presenting reports on HR department activities
- Budgeting for payroll distribution and other forms of compensation
How to Become a Human Resources Generalist
There are several steps involved in becoming a human resources generalist, including earning the right degree, honing key skills, gaining relevant work experience, and obtaining optional credentials.
Earn a Degree
Although it is possible to work as a human resources generalist with a bachelor’s degree, the number of people seeking careers in human resources is on the rise, making the job market more competitive. Earning a graduate degree, such as a master’s in HR management, can provide candidates with a competitive edge — especially for those interested in seeking executive-level positions later in their careers. A master’s in human resources management program builds on the knowledge gained in a bachelor’s degree program in human resources, business administration, or a related field.
Hone Key Skills
Successful HR generalists have an array of skills that allow them to fulfill their extensive responsibilities. Aspiring HR generalists should develop and hone skills in the following areas:
- Communication: HR generalists regularly interact with job seekers, department heads in their organization, and employees. As such, excellent communication skills are essential.
- Time Management: HR generalists must handle a steady flow of tasks throughout each day. The ability to effectively allocate time to each task is crucial.
- Recruitment: Successful HR generalists must have a solid understanding of the recruitment process and the strategies required to attract and retain talent.
- Project Management: Because most HR generalists work on multiple projects each day, they must be able to aptly and efficiently manage those projects through careful planning and coordination.
- Training and Education: In some organizations, HR generalists are responsible for onboarding and training new hires and providing all employees with ongoing training. They must know how to explain things in simple, easy to understand terms while keeping their audience engaged.
- Computers and Technology: The technology that HR generalists rely on each day includes human resources information management (HRIS) software, applicant tracking software (ATS), and a variety of payroll and performance management systems.
- Organization: Organizational skills are crucial for keeping track of multiple projects, tasks, and responsibilities. Clean, organized physical and virtual workspaces ensure higher productivity.
- Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Human resources generalists are often faced with sticky situations that call for quick thinking and effective problem-solving, such as challenges related to complying with specific laws or regulations. The ability to make reasoned decisions in a limited amount of time is integral to HR roles.
Gain Work Experience
Human resources generalists often start in entry-level HR positions to gain experience before moving on to more advanced roles. In most cases, these are assistant-level positions that can provide a solid overview of the work of a human resources department.
Obtain Optional Credentials
HR generalists do not need to be licensed to work in their field, but employers may look for optional credentials that demonstrate a candidate’s knowledge, abilities, and commitment. The following are two of the most popular credentials in the field:
- Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR): The SPHR credential is offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). It is best suited for candidates with a background in policymaking or strategy-oriented roles.
- Global Talent Management Leader (GTML): The GTML credential is offered by the Talent Management Institute. It is designed for individuals looking to transfer into leadership roles within the HR industry.
Human Resources Generalist Salary and Job Outlook
A human resources generalist’s specific salary depends on their employer, industry, experience, education, and credentials. The median annual salary for human resources generalists is about $60,750, according to October 2024 data from Payscale. The top 10% of earners make up to $78,000 per year, per Payscale. Some HR generalists — especially those working for large corporations — can earn bonuses and commissions on top of their salaries.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have a specific entry for human resources generalists, but projects that the employment of human resources specialists will grow 8% between 2023 and 2033. As companies continue to look for specialized talent to meet specific organizational functions and priorities, the demand for skilled HR generalists is expected to grow.
Help Organizations Run Smoothly With a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management
Human resources generalists are integral to organizations’ success. They ensure adherence to labor laws and regulations and find new ways to attract and retain the talent organizations need to meet their strategic goals.
The online Master of Arts in Human Resources Management (MHR) program from Claremont Lincoln University can prepare students for the dynamic HR generalist role. The program teaches students the valuable skills and knowledge they need to thrive with a focus on leadership and influence.
Discover how the online MHR program from CLU can help you achieve success in your human resources career.
Sources
HRCI, Senior Professional in Human Resources
Indeed, “16 Types of HR Certifications for Each Step in Your Career”
Indeed, “HR Generalist: Job Description and Requirements”
Indeed, “Top HR Skills to Look for in an HR Generalist”
Payscale, Average Human Resources (HR) Generalist Salary
Talent Management Institute, Global Talent Management Leader
TechTarget, “Human Resources (HR) Generalist”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Human Resources Specialists
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