In this human resources job description, an HR Professional describes what HR professionals do. She also offers career tips for people who want to work in human resources. Great advice from a self-employed Human Resources and resume expert!
“Most people don’t understand what a Human Resources Professional does,” says Sharon Blaivas, HR Professional and founder of ShakeUpMyResume.com. “When you begin to describe the different facets, people are shocked that so much can be involved in a Human Resources job. They’re intrigued by the diversity!”
Blaivas provides resume writing and interview preparation services to individuals in all industries and careers. Here, she describes what it’s like to work as a Human Resources professional, and offers career tips for HR personnel…
Human Resources Job Description – What Do HR Professionals Do?
“People who work in Human Resources have titles that vary by organization, such as Generalist or Specialist,” says Blaivas. “If someone is a Specialist, it’s usually preceded by their area of specialty, such as Benefits Specialist or Compensation Specialist.”
Blaivas has a Generalist background, but has spent time in a variety of Specialties including Benefits, Recruiting and Compensation. “Currently, I am a career consultant who focuses on resume writing and interview preparation.”
People with jobs in Human Resources ensure that all matters relating to employees are administered and handled properly. They may ensure that the appropriate benefits and compensation packages are offered, and that employees are well informed about their options. HR Personnel also respond to any concerns that employees have regarding their employment. Compensation and Benefits Specialists answer questions and resolve issues for employees, and determine the appropriate compensation and benefits. A Employee Recruiter ensures that open positions are filled either internally or by hiring someone externally.
“Human Resources Professionals usually work on a variety of projects, such as auditing current practices and researching new programs,” says Blavas. “The HR Professional ensures that the organization remains competitive and that processes and practices are cost-effective and current.”
How Much Money Does a HR Professional Make?
The salary or wage depends on the industry, but the average salary for an entry level Human Resources Professional with a Bachelor’s Degree is approximately $30-$40,000 per year. There is the potential to earn a six figure salary, as job responsibilities increase.
Blaivas says, “At this point, since I am a self-employed Human Resources Professional – which is a realistic possibility for someone with an HR background – I am compensated by clients based on a fee schedule that I determined for the services I offer.”
The Best Parts of a Human Resources Job
Human Resources offers a diverse workday! “We never know what type of question will come our way, or what type of issue will need to be resolved,” says Blaivas. “Another plus of working in HR is that the skills gained are very transferable to a variety of fields. They provide a solid background to developing your own business. I transitioned smoothly into my own business with the knowledge I gained after spending years in different jobs in Human Resources.”
The Downside of Working in HR
One of the challenges of a job in Human Resources is the possibility of working with annoying or even abusive employees. “Also, not many people who understand the role of a Human Resources Professional,” says Blaivas. “You get some blank looks when you tell some people that you work in HR.”
Human Resources Career Tips
“If you’re interested in a Human Resources job, spend a semester or summer interning in an HR department,” says Blaivas. “Or focus a school project on an aspect of Human Resources. For example, research the various laws that impact different employers, the types of benefits that are offered and how compensation packages are developed.”
Blaivas adds that if you enjoy multi-tasking, working with people, and resolving issues, HR may be the field for you.
For more information about Sharon Blaivas, visit ShakeUpMyResume.com.
