Human Resources (HR) is an ever-evolving field that plays a pivotal role in an organization’s success. Whether you’re fresh out of college or considering a mid-career switch, diving into the HR pool can be both exciting and daunting. From understanding the various HR positions, and carving out a unique HR career path, to honing HR hard skills, there’s a lot to digest. To make things even more complex, the number of skills needed across professions has risen 10% each year since 2017 according to Gartner TalentNeuron™ data. That’s why our goal with this guide is to provide you with insights into the HR hard skills needed to navigate your HR journey smoothly.
Deciphering the Different HR Positions
Navigating the world of HR positions can initially feel overwhelming, given the myriad of roles available. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you identify the best fit for you.
HR Assistant:
As a potential entry point into the world of HR, this role is about mastering basic HR administrative tasks and HR hard skills. You might be responsible for maintaining records, scheduling interviews, or coordinating training sessions.
As an HR assistant, you’ll often be the first point of contact within the HR department. While soft skills like communication and empathy are paramount in HR, there are several HR hard skills that are crucial to perform the job effectively:
- HR Software Proficiency: Familiarity with HR Information Systems (HRIS) like Workday, PeopleSoft, or BambooHR. Knowing how to navigate these systems is essential for maintaining employee records, processing new hires, and other administrative tasks.
- Data Entry: Accuracy and efficiency in entering and updating employee records, benefits information, and other pertinent data.
- Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in tools like Word (for document creation), Excel (for data analysis and reporting), and PowerPoint (for training presentations).
- Recruitment Tools: Knowledge of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) such as Taleo, Greenhouse, or Jobvite. These tools aid in the recruitment process by tracking applications and maintaining candidate databases.
- Basic Knowledge of Labor Laws: While not expected to be an expert, an HR assistant should have a fundamental understanding of employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
- Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage appointments, and assist HR professionals in their daily functions.
- Reporting: Generating regular reports (like attendance records or turnover rates) to assist in HR decisions.
- Onboarding Processes: Knowing the steps to integrate a new employee into the organization, from paperwork to orientation sessions.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Assisting in managing and answering queries related to health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits.
- Payroll Systems: Familiarity with basic payroll functions and software can be advantageous, especially in smaller organizations where the HR department might handle payroll.
- Employee Relations: Though more of a blend between a soft skill and a hard skill, having the knowledge and the ability to handle initial employee grievances or concerns is beneficial.
- Training & Development Tools: Familiarity with platforms or tools used for employee training, such as Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Moodle or Blackboard.
It’s worth noting that while these HR hard skills can significantly enhance an HR assistant’s effectiveness, ongoing training, and professional development are essential due to the ever-evolving nature of HR practices and tools.
HR Specialist:
Once you have your basics clear, you might decide to delve deeper into a particular area. As an HR Specialist, you handle specific HR tasks. This could range from being a Recruitment Specialist, focusing solely on hiring, to a Training Specialist, who ensures employees are always learning and growing.
HR specialists focus on particular areas of human resources, delving deeper into specific functions than a general HR assistant would. Because of their specialization, the HR hard skills required can vary significantly based on the specific domain of HR they are involved in. However, here’s a list of HR hard skills that are typically associated with various HR specialties:
Talent Acquisition and Recruitment:
- Proficiency with advanced features of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
- Sourcing techniques using platforms like LinkedIn Recruiter.
- Skill in crafting effective job descriptions.
Training and Development:
- Mastery of Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Cornerstone or TalentLMS.
- Ability to design, develop, and evaluate training programs.
- Knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Skills in compensation analysis tools and software.
- Understanding of job evaluation methodologies.
- Knowledge of various benefits platforms and enrollment systems.
Labor Relations:
- In-depth knowledge of labor laws, union regulations, and collective bargaining processes.
- Skill in handling grievance procedures.
- Familiarity with dispute resolution techniques.
HR Analytics:
- Proficiency in data analytics tools like Tableau or Power BI.
- Strong skills in statistical analysis.
- Ability to generate actionable insights from HR metrics.
Performance Management:
- Expertise in performance management software.
- Knowledge of different appraisal methods and feedback techniques.
- Skill in designing and managing review cycles.
HR Information Systems (HRIS) Specialists:
- Advanced proficiency in specific HRIS platforms like SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, or Oracle PeopleSoft.
- Database management and query skills.
- Understanding of systems integration and software implementation.
Diversity and Inclusion:
- Knowledge of best practices and benchmarks related to diversity initiatives.
- Ability to analyze data related to diversity metrics.
- Understanding of various cultural competence tools and assessments.
Organizational Development:
- Skills in change management methodologies.
- Knowledge of organizational diagnosis tools.
- Expertise in organizational design principles.
Health and Safety:
- Understanding of workplace safety regulations and OSHA standards.
- Skill in conducting safety audits and risk assessments.
- Proficiency in safety management systems.
Legal and Compliance:
- Comprehensive knowledge of employment laws specific to the region or country.
- Skills in conducting internal audits for HR compliance.
- Understanding of reporting requirements for different regulatory bodies.
While the HR hard skills listed above are tailored for specific HR specialties, all HR specialists should also possess a foundational understanding of general HR principles, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others in the organization.
HR Manager & Beyond
As you climb to managerial or directorial roles, strategic vision melds with expertise. While HR hard skills remain important, their application becomes more strategic, ensuring HR aligns seamlessly with broader organizational goals.
HR Manager:
This is where leadership skills come to the fore. As an HR Manager, you’ll be the torchbearer for the HR team, involved in strategic planning, policy development, and ensuring that HR functions align with broader company objectives.
HR Director or VP of HR:
This is the zenith of HR roles. Here, you oversee the entire HR department, make critical organizational decisions, and set the strategic direction for HR initiatives.
Whether you want to be an HR assistant or HR director, understanding the roles and responsibilities of the HR positions is a key stepping stone in your HR career path.
Staying Current: The Journey Never Ends
HR is dynamic. As such, continuous learning is essential. While you might have a repertoire of HR hard skills, the industry evolves, and so should you. Engage in workshops, attend seminars, and consider memberships with institutions like SHRM to stay updated and continue refining your HR hard skills.
In conclusion, HR offers a vibrant career path, with roles ranging from administrative to strategic. At each level, a specific set of HR hard skills can make a difference, facilitating efficiency and innovation. Whether you’re beginning your HR journey or looking to specialize, prioritize these skills for a rewarding HR career.
Sources:
Gartner. (2021, February 3). Gartner HR research finds fifty-eight percent of the workforce will need new skill sets to do their jobs successfully. Gartner Newsroom. https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-02-03-gartner-hr-research-finds-fifty-eight-percent-of-the-workforce-will-need-new-skill-sets-to-do-their-jobs-successfully.
