HR Specialist Resume Examples and Template

An HR specialist handles various personnel matters within an organization, such as recruitment, hiring, training and onboarding. After finding an HR specialist role that you want to pursue, it can help to review the position's job description to understand any requirements. Knowing how to write an HR specialist resume can help you present your qualifications effectively and give you a greater chance of getting the job. In this article, we list the steps for writing an HR specialist resume and provide two resume samples to help you appeal to hiring managers. When you're done writing your resume, you can upload a resume file or build an Indeed Resume and apply for the job of your choosing. To upload the template into Google Docs, go to File > Open > and select the correct downloaded file.

How to write an HR specialist resume

Here's how to write an HR specialist resume:

1. Create a header

Including your key information right at the start can help hiring managers sort through candidate resumes more easily. It also helps them distinguish your resume from those of other candidates. Leave space for a resume header at the top of the page. List your full name, followed by your phone number, email address and location on the next line. Make sure to use a working phone number and a professional email address since hiring managers may call or email you using the information you include in this section. Read more: How To Create an Effective Resume Header

2. Add a professional summary

In the next section, highlight your relevant qualifications. Write a short professional summary that mentions your skills, industry experience and achievements as an HR specialist or in a similar role. Consider reviewing the job description to determine what to include in this section. Keep your summary to two or three sentences maximum. Read more: How To Write a Human Resources Resume Summary

3. Describe your work history

Create a list of your relevant jobs in the workforce. Consider any positions you held within an HR department, along with any that involved administrative or customer service duties. Include the name of each job, the employment dates, the employer and your responsibilities in that role. Make sure the jobs you include relate to the role you want to pursue. This can strengthen your candidacy and improve your chances of getting an interview. Related: The Hierarchy of HR Job Titles (With Salary and Job Descriptions)

4. List your core skills and competencies

Create a list of your skills in this profession and add them to a section below your work history. Consider which of your skills align with the job description. For example, an HR specialist typically has the following skills:

Communication
Problem-solving
Training and development
Talent management
Accounting
Interpersonal skills
Recruitment
Benefits and compensation

5. Mention your academic history

Continue your resume with a section that mentions your formal degrees and diplomas. HR specialists often have a bachelor's degree in human resources, human resources management or a related field. A bachelor's degree in human resources, in particular, can help you learn the basic knowledge for a role in this field. Some employers may accept candidates with a high school diploma and relevant work experience instead of a formal degree. For each credential you list, mention its name, the granting institution and the year you earned it if you graduated within the past few years. Related: Bachelor's Degree: Definition, Benefits and How To Earn One

6. Include relevant certifications

In the last section, list your human resources certifications. A certification can help you learn new skills or develop existing ones. Mentioning these credentials in your resume can distinguish you from other candidates applying for the same job. In addition, a credential can help you stay up to date with the latest HR techniques and strategies. You can pursue a variety of HR certifications, including those related to talent management, compensation or general human resources. Related: 14 Best Certification Courses for HR Professionals Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.