A human resources (HR) generalist handles the daily operations of a company's HR department. When you find an HR generalist position you want to pursue, read the job description to learn what the hiring manager seeks in a candidate. Learning the steps for writing an HR generalist resume can help you submit a quality application and improve your chances of getting an interview.In this article, we explain how to write an HR generalist resume, provide two resume samples and list the common skills and certifications for the job. When you're ready to apply for a position, you can upload a resume file or build an Indeed Resume.To upload the template into Google Docs, go to File > Open > and select the correct downloaded file.
Use the top of the page to create a resume header that includes your essential information. Type your first and last name on the first line. On the next line, include your contact details, such as your phone number, email address and the city and state where you live. If a hiring manager thinks your resume matches the job description, they may use the information you provide in your resume header to call or email you.Read more:How To Create an Effective Resume Header
2. Add a professional summary
A professional summary is a paragraph that discusses your work expertise and achievements in your field. It introduces you and your qualifications to hiring managers before they read the rest of your resume. In two or three sentences, briefly highlight your HR skills, industry experience and career accolades. Consider reviewing the job description to understand the qualifications your prospective employer may want from job candidates.Read more:How To Write a Resume Summary Plus 5 Strong Examples [Video + Transcript]
3. Discuss your work experience
In the next section, share your work history as it relates to the role of an HR generalist. As an HR generalist, you may have experience in another HR role, such as that of an HR representative or HR assistant. For every role you list, include the job title, the company's name and location and your previous duties. When you mention your duties, include strong action verbs and quantify numbers to better illustrate your contributions to your previous employers.Related:HR Generalist: Job Description and Requirements
4. Mention your soft and hard skills
Use this section to discuss your core competencies as an HR generalist. Include both soft and hard skills as they relate to the role. For example, you can highlight soft skills like communication and organization or hard skills like performance management or payroll.Related:6 Important Skills for a Career in HR and How To Develop Them
5. Discuss your education
Apart from learning about your work history and abilities, hiring managers want to know where you received your formal education. Typically, an HR generalist has a bachelor's degree in human resources, business or a related field. In this section, include the name of your degree, the school or university, and, if you graduated within the past three years, the year you earned it.Read more:How To List Education on a Resume
6. Include your relevant certifications
Certifications can help you develop your skills and expand your knowledge as an HR generalist. When you list your certifications on your resume, it demonstrates your commitment to your career and desire to grow in this profession. If you have relevant certifications, include them at the bottom of the page. Mention the name of the certification, the hosting organization and the date you received it or the date it expires.Read more:How To List Certifications on Your Resume in 5 StepsPlease note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.