HR Generalist Career Path Duties And Responsibilities

By Nancy Meyer


Individuals working in the area of human resources often have a specific job in the department. While this is the case, there are others whom focus on a hr generalist career path. For, these individuals often work in all areas related to human resources.

Individuals working in Human Resources have both fun and difficult jobs. For example, recruiting, interviewing and screening candidates can often be an interesting and fun process. Whereas, having to let workers go can often be a difficult and sometimes heartbreaking one, especially when the individual has no part in the decision, such as during company downsizing and company wide layoffs.

In most cases, firings usually occur based on actions by the employee and can be easily justified. In other cases, such as layoffs and downsizing, generalists often find letting employees go far more difficult. Whereas, employees having issues with addiction often find help which might not have been made available had it not been for the employer.

With companies becoming more competitive over time, the HR department also plays an important role in the success of the company. In addition, with the ongoing advancement of technology, especially in the workplace, these individuals often need a technical background. For example, software programs are often now used in the area of payroll, employee record keeping and administration.

As these individuals often bridge the gap between executives, management staff and employees, strong oral and written communication skills are essential. In most cases, HR generalists report directly to upper level management or CEOs. Whereas, while larger companies often have HR teams, smaller companies, family owned and small business owners often hire a single HR generalist whom manages all aspects of the company, including employees.

Along with general duties, these individuals are also responsible for the administrative, strategic and compliance-oriented aspects of the company. The compliance aspects includes preparing tax records, documentation management, insurance management while some are also involved in providing training in anti-discrimination and sexual harassment laws. Whereas, in jobs which promote on the job training, these individuals are often involved in leading these classes and workshops.

Companies now moving away from annual reviews have now started asking HR generalists to also observe employee performance on an ongoing basis. When needing to advice employees on how different techniques might be a better option, these individuals need to do so in the proper manner. In order to assure this is the case, most HR generalists are also being observed by upper level management on a regular basis.

One of the most important and newest aspects of the position is to keep employees interested and engaged when it comes to the success of the company. For, if workers can become emotionally connected to a position, it is often more likely professional and personal growth will take place. In most cases, this can take place when employers and employees have a positive ongoing relationship over the course of employment.




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