When looking for a new job opportunity, you may come across various job postings related to human resources. The responsibilities in this domain include various tasks like recruitment, addressing job-related concerns of employees, and conducting performance assessments.
Human resources roles require a myriad of skills, ranging from effective employee management to performance evaluation and a thorough understanding of the company’s requirements. However, not all job listings within this field are the same. A closer look at the responsibilities outlined in the job descriptions reveals differences, with some positions appearing to be more suited for specialists, while others seem to require a broader, generalist skill set.
This then raises the question- What is the difference between an HR generalist and an HR specialist, and which path should you follow? Let’s explore the differences between the two roles so you can determine which position is more in line with your career goals.
HR Specialists
What Is an HR Specialist
HR specialists are trained to focus on a specific area within human resources, such as benefits administration. Usually, these professionals undergo training as HR generalists before opting for specialization. Many begin as HR generalists in smaller companies, handle various responsibilities, and later pursue specialist training, often through online HR certifications. This initial experience helps them learn the ropes of HR work and decide which specific tasks they want to specialize in.
HR specialists commonly function as part of a larger HR team, and collaborate with managers, generalists, and other experts in the field.
What Does an HR Specialist Do
HR specialists handle screening, interviewing, recruiting, and employee placement. They specialize in HR functions and manage tasks like employee relations, compensation, and benefits. HR specialists contribute to the growth of the HR department by preparing detailed progress reports.
They play a vital role in strategic candidate selection and interviewing processes, providing guidance on complex HR matters and ensuring legal compliance. Additionally, HR specialists supervise, coordinate, and collaborate with other HR personnel to fulfill both short and long-term business needs.
How to become a HR specialist
Here is how to become an HR specialist:
Get a Bachelor’s Degree: in human resources, psychology, business administration with an HR focus, or a related field.
- Gain hands-on experience through entry-level roles or internships like HR assistant or coordinator positions. Internships, often part of college programs, offer practical experience and networking opportunities.
- Consider HR Certifications to enhance credibility and showcase commitment. Relevant certifications can strengthen your position in the job market.
- You can also consider pursuing a master’s in human resources to gain advanced knowledge and specialized skills in leadership, business strategy, and HR analytics.
HR Specialist Skills
Some commonly required skills that can help an HR specialist grow in their career include:
- Interpersonal skills- effective verbal and non-verbal communication
- Attention to detail
- Business acumen
- Cultural sensitivity
- Data analysis and performance assessment
- Legal expertise in HR
- Employee benefits administration
- Technical HR proficiency
- Accounting and budgeting capabilities
HR Specialist Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HR specialists earn a median salary of $64,240 annually, (ranging from $39,340 – $116,060). It is pertinent to mention that HR specialists’ salaries differ based on industries and company sizes. A role as an HR specialist in a growing industry at a large company might offer higher pay compared to a similar position in a smaller company.
HR Generalist
What is an HR Generalist
HR generalists can perform many different jobs in human resources. They might work alone or as part of a team, usually led by a director or VP. HR generalists perform lots of tasks to help their company, and these tasks can change each day. For example, one day they might help new employees get started, and the next day they might answer questions about benefits from current employees.
Besides giving out rules and fixing problems at work, HR generalists also work together with employees. If you like having different things to do each day and talking to different people, and you are also new to HR and not sure where to start, being an HR generalist could be a great starting point for you.
What Does an HR Generalist Do
HR generalists support the overall functioning of the HR department by engaging in a wide range of tasks, unlike specialists who focus on specific areas. This entry-level role involves responsibilities such as recruiting, data management, screening applications, interviewing, onboarding, and workplace assignments.
HR generalists also train employees, enforce organizational ethics, manage employee relations, and oversee payroll. They may have broad legal knowledge and use it to contribute to decision-making processes, thereby playing a significant role in ensuring alignment with organizational policies.
How to Become an HR Generalist
Here are the steps to becoming an HR generalist:
- Get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in HR-related fields such as human resources, business, or organizational development.
- Gain practical experience in HR, often starting as a human resource assistant or in customer service roles.
- Consider pursuing advanced education, such as a Master of Science in Human Resource Management, to enhance business, psychology, and communication skills.
- Obtain basic HR certification like SHRM-CP or PHR to strengthen your profile.
- Apply for HR generalist roles based on your qualifications and experience.
- Consider earning senior HR certification (SHRM-SCP or SPHR) to further improve your understanding of HR strategy and leadership.
HR Generalist Skills
Some skills that can help an HR generalist grow in their career include:
- Good verbal and written communication abilities
- Analytical and data-driven skills
- Effective time management
- Ability to cope in a fast-paced work environment
- Comprehensive HR expertise
- Strong human resource management and employee relations skills
- Technical proficiency in HR tasks
- Strong administrative skills
- Effective priority management
- Providing guidance and advice
HR Generalist Salary
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not specify a salary range for HR generalists separately, other job sites suggest a comparatively lower median and salary range for HR generalists compared to HR specialists, with the numbers roughly ranging between $ 45K and $85K. Similar to HR specialists, salaries may vary based on industries, company sizes, level and experience, etc.
HR Specialist vs. HR Generalist- What to Choose
Individuals attracted to an HR specialist role usually enjoy impacting business strategy directly. This involves developing employees’ skills and ensuring the effective implementation of innovative technology for more efficient, effective, and profitable operations.
Choosing between an HR generalist and an HR specialist career path comes down to your preference for being a jack of all trades or specializing in a specific area. This choice can change over time, with many HR specialists beginning their careers as generalists. Over time, they discover their preferences with experience and may decide to specialize in a particular field and you can also do the same if you are uncertain about the right HR career path for you.