A human resource manager helps companies coordinate the organizational functions of their business. They interview, hire, and handle staff issues. They also support staff to ensure they are treated fairly and are engaged and productive after they are hired. They consult top executives to develop strategic plans and are a go between with management and their staff.
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How to Become a Human Resource Manager
Sometimes, businesses may accept entry-level individuals with a bachelor’s degree, but the ideal candidate would have a master’s degree in business administration or human resources. The candidate would also need several years experience in human resources so they can lead their team and make strategic HR decisions for a company.
Job Description of a Human Resource Manager
A human resource manager has many important tasks and works closely with employees and management. They are knowledgeable of their companies policies, regulations, procedures and laws, and explain this information to employees or management. They ensure employee records are keep updated in regards to hiring, promotions, leave time, or termination. They may be involved in new employee orientations and make management aware of any pertinent information regarding them.
Human resource managers solve problems regarding work complaints or grievances like harassment or the guidelines for overtime benefits. For this reason, they should be good listeners, decision makers, and have social perceptiveness. They also maintain the performance evaluation process as well along with the companies policies and procedures.
Human Resource Manager Career Video Transcript
Whether they’re negotiating a contract with union leaders, or interviewing a hopeful job applicant, human resources managers combine the qualities of leadership and initiative with steadiness and perseverance. It’s not a job for the faint of heart, since the responsibility for overseeing layoffs, or firing an employee, usually lands in their hands.
These managers work both to attract qualified candidates, and to ensure they are productive and fairly-treated once they’re hired. They also develop recruiting and training programs, and administer employee pay and benefits. Human resources managers make sure employment policies are followed throughout an organization. They help managers and employees understand work contracts and resolve discipline issues or conflicts. They may facilitate important conversations about equal opportunities, and preventing sexual harassment.
Sensitivity to others’ perspectives is important. Human resource managers work in business, government, education, and non-profits. Some positions require travel, especially to recruit applicants from college campuses, or to attend conferences. Typically, though, this is an office-based career with 9-to-5 hours and the possibility of good benefits. A career as a human resources manager usually begins with a bachelor’s degree in human resource management, business, communications, or a related field. A good human resources manager is pivotal to the morale and success of an organization.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Human Resources Managers.
National Center for O*NET Development. 11-3121.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
