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What skills are required for HR?

I am a fresher with no experience. What skills do I need to land into a job role in HR? Currently, I am pursuing my masters of management in Human Resources? Where do I start?

human-resources hr
Thank you comment icon The HR field is a very broad one. I would utilizing your program understanding to narrow down a concentrations within Human Resources. It really depends on what you are interested in. For example, there is HR Technology, HR Operations, Benefits, Recruiting, Compensation, Generalists and Employee Relations. When I went through a Human Resources program, it helped me to get full scale understanding and exposure to the field of Human Resources and also helped me to come up with specific areas of interest so I can then network with professionals in the concentration and build a plan of how I needed to develop more in that area of speciality (additional training, internships, special projects, networking opportunities/mixers, etc). Kiran Kalra
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Sharolyn’s Answer

Great advice you have received so far! Human Resources is multifaceted! Determining if you want to be in the broad aspects or specific Human Resources will be key and narrowing that down will come through researching, learning and working in its various capacities. I will say don't limit yourself in regards to Human Resoures. Definitely find an internship that would allow you to work in different parts of the department (compensation, compliance, legal, talent acquisition, etc.)

Top Skills:
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Empathy
- Understanding how to maneuver between the Human - Business - Human aspect

Best of luck !! I hope this helps!
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Lance’s Answer

Hi Silviya,
Something I recommend is figuring out a part of Human Resources you want to be a part of. The HR field can be very broad and can get very specialized. I think I would recommend learning the different paths that are out there and then determine what it is you want to be involved with. From there you can build the specific skills needed for the position you are looking for.
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Layne’s Answer

Great question! HR is a fascinating and exciting field because it is a microcosm of the business. You apply financial and accounting knowledge in benefits. You apply marketing and relations skills in recruiting. You can apply legal knowledge in labor and employee relations. You can apply technical knowledge in HR Information Systems. You can apply education skills in learning and development. I share that to say there is not a short list of skills for HR. The most important skill is your ability to understand the business you are in and how HR can partner with the business to make it successful. To that end, in addition to learning skills specific to HR, I would encourage you to take courses which help you understand the businesses that you partner with, and courses and program that help you understand client needs and help them find solutions.

Layne recommends the following next steps:

Look at the areas of HR where you can apply your specific skills
Learn about the businesses of the clients you will support
Refine your partnership and customer service skills
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Ryan’s Answer

Hi there -
Being a successful human resource (HR) manager involves a combination of skills, knowledge, and strategies. Here are some key steps to help you thrive in this role:

Understand the Business: Gain a deep understanding of your organization’s goals, culture, and industry. Align HR practices with business objectives.
Effective Communication:
Listening Skills: Actively listen to employees’ concerns and feedback.
Clear Communication: Communicate policies, changes, and expectations clearly.
Talent Acquisition and Retention:
Recruitment: Attract top talent by creating compelling job descriptions and using effective sourcing methods.
Retention Strategies: Develop programs to retain employees, such as career development, recognition, and work-life balance initiatives.
Employee Relations:
Conflict Resolution: Handle workplace conflicts professionally and impartially.
Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work environment through team-building activities and employee engagement surveys.
Legal Compliance:
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with labor laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
Fair Practices: Ensure fair treatment, diversity, and inclusion.
Performance Management:
Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to help employees grow.
Performance Reviews: Conduct regular performance evaluations.
Benefits and Compensation:
Competitive Packages: Design competitive compensation and benefits packages.
Wellness Programs: Implement wellness initiatives to support employee health.
Learning and Development:
Training Programs: Offer continuous learning opportunities.
Skill Development: Encourage skill-building and career advancement.
Data-Driven Decisions:
Analytics: Use data to make informed decisions about HR processes.
Metrics: Measure success through key performance indicators (KPIs).
Adaptability and Flexibility:
Changing Landscape: HR evolves; stay adaptable and open to change.
Remember, empathy, integrity, and a genuine interest in people are essential for success in HR.
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Diana’s Answer

Hi there, find an internship or even volunteer at a non-profit to learn HR volunteer to answer phones, learn paperwork and be well rounded. HR is all about Communications so any volunteer or part time position that has you talking with people and getting to know them is going to be helpful. If you play any team sports and belong to any clubs that is helpful. Also pay careful attention to how people in HR dress and what they wear and even how they talk. While it is important to be you remember you are the one applying for a position. Your resume has to stand out from the pile as you are entry level and competing with others. When it's time to apply for a job don't just look at traditional jobs lots of jobs in communications have HR as part of the Job position. Stay flexible and learn to be a people person really be interested in other people and take communication classes.
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Amber’s Answer

For HR, you require a vast knowledge of skills as the market and companies that you support continue to change and adapt with the times. So for me, communication, a strong knowledge of the business I support and problem-solving skills have helped me immensely. I think you will benefit from leadership experience in the HR role as it is important to have a presence at the stakeholders or client's tables that you support because depending on your HR role, you need to be able to influence and provide recommendations for why a business or group needs to follow certain work , safety or communication guidelines when supporting their employees. An entry-level position is the best in regards to HR because you get your feet wet and then you state to network with other leaders and HR professionals which helps in your growth and projectory in the role. Having a master's is a great start in HR but you will find that on the job training and doing the HR role will help the best to gain skills.
I always tell people that HR is exactly what it is- you provide resources to humans and if you have initiate desire to know and help people to access the right resources to build their skills and overall, become better personally and professionally- then you picked the right role/position.
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Shirley’s Answer

Hi there! I started my career in Accounting and took on a few roles within Finance before landing in the Human Resources space - I love it!

You will hear oftentimes that a company's best asset is it's people so as an HR professional, you really get to partner with the business on its strategy. Being curious about the marketplace and how it may impact the company and its employees is an important awareness to have.

Communication skills are also important - you want to ensure you are able to communicate concisely and effectively. There will be times as an HR professional where you have to deliver a tough message so empathy is another important skill set to have.

Critical thinking - as an HR professional you might find yourself in situations that are not black and white. Being able to think outside the box and make suggestions on how to move forward.

You are on the right track already with pursuing your Masters in HR Management - I would continue to look for volunteer or internship opportunities. Even if they are not directly related to HR, you can raise interest and ask for shadow opportunities of the HR professionals. Think of ways in which you can demonstrate your leadership capabilities to hone in on your communication and critical thinking skills too!
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Yhtiyar’s Answer

Great question! As someone who is just starting out in the field of HR, it's important to remember that you have a unique set of skills and experiences that can help you succeed. While it may seem daunting to enter the job market with no experience, it's important to believe in yourself and your abilities.

One of the most important skills you can bring to HR is your positive attitude and willingness to learn. You already have a passion for the field and a desire to succeed, which will take you far in your career. By building on your communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, you can become a valuable asset to any organization.

Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and it's okay to take your time to figure out your path. Pursuing a master's degree in HR is a great step towards your career goals, and there are many opportunities to gain experience through internships, volunteering, and networking.

As a career coach, I'm here to support you and provide guidance as you navigate your career journey. Together, we can work on building your skills and confidence and finding the right opportunities to help you achieve your goals. Believe in yourself and the possibilities that lie ahead, and you'll be on your way to a fulfilling career in HR. www.getmydreamjob.us
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Amina’s Answer

Human Resources job requires an excellent communication skill and emotional intelligence because the field has to do with managing people,in terms of training,recruitment, pensions, emoluments and documentation or maintaining a data base of employee,appraisal etc and ability to cope with stress and be highly innovative and willing to adopt to changes in technology.
I will strongly advice to start an internship or volunteer at some organisation to acquire the necessary skills, as it will prepare you for future responsibilities.
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Nayra’s Answer

Hi Silviya,

HR is all about People and the company depends on this department greatly, this is a career you can pursue in all industries which is very advantageous. You already have a great start by pursuing your masters in HR, where you will get the fundamentals. Studies are valuable for recruiters but even more important is for you to experience working in HR with an internship, this looks great in a CV as this is how you can demonstrate experience working with people and understanding of how a company and this specific department works. Whit this you should be a great candidate for an entry level position.

Nayra recommends the following next steps:

Volunteering also looks great as experience, you can find something you are passionate about and gain some skills while making an impact.
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Tanya’s Answer

Great question! I believe the following skills are critical in the HR field:

Communication
Time management
Engagement
Strategic/Critical thinking
Strong attention to detail
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Maintain a high degree of professionalism and act with integrity and confidentiality
Proficient in Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.)
Works independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment
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R’s Answer

Silviya,

Excellent question! I have been in HR for many years on the Recruiting (Talent) side of things. I love what I do and I have had success doing it. I tried other things before becoming a Recruiter, including Sales, Procurement (Purchasing and Contracts). and even starting my own business within the golf industry. While those were all interesting experiences where I learned quite a bit, recruiting was something that I enjoyed early and found interesting.

To be a good recruiter, I believe you need:

1) Good communication skills
2) You have to enjoy meeting and talking to people
3) Have good listening and documentation skills
4) Have the ability to tell a story to a hiring manager beyond what they might read on a resume

I really enjoy talking with people and hearing about what they do, who they work for, what they like and don't like and what they are looking for. You will not only learn a lot about people, but you will learn about what companies are out there and what they do. Also, it is an opportunity to help people find their next career step and that is very rewarding. Even if a candidate that you have spoken with does not get the job, it still is an opportunity to help them by providing guidance and feedback. I can't tell you how many candidates have thanked me for giving them feedback. It is a tremendous help to people and it gives them areas to improve on and they come away knowing what we needed for a particular role. Not all recruiters give feedback, but if you do not get a job that you have interviewed for, I would encourage you to ask for feedback. Good recruiters will give feedback.

All the best!

Richard
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camille’s Answer

I would say that this job requires a balance to be kept between understanding the company's objectives, its strategy, but also the development of talents, understanding and the people working in this company.
So in my opinion, you need to have psychological skills, to know how to detect people, understand them, and help them perform for the company. Performance is intimately linked to the well-being and fulfillment of employees.
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Samantha’s Answer

All great answers already! Professional affiliations are also a great place to start to learn more about competencies and skill sets and also build a network of professionals in the field to help you get started. Consider becoming a SHRM member or checking out a local chapter meeting near you.
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Molly’s Answer

You've gotten some great advice above, but I would echo that communication skills are key and it seems silly to say - but you have to like people:) I would also recommend securing an internship in the field and following HR thought leaders on LinkedIn. They'll share great information and likely some job posts as well. There are several groups in LinkedIn and Facebook for HR professionals, depending on your function (I'm in Talent Acquisition).

Best of luck!!

Molly
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