What exactly is an HR generalist?

[allina]

In a couple weeks there will be an HR generalist position available within my company, it looks like it will be available to me.

 

I must admit that I'm not sure what exactly this position is all about, if it would be a good move for me or what the major differences would be from my current position.

 

I know that the tasks and responsibilities will be outlined for me but I'd like to know from some outside sources, and possibly people with experience in the field what this is all about.

[Star Gazer]

I think you've definitely got the personality to work in HR, Allina!!! But (eeek!) I'm not sure you're qualified...yet. Most HR Generalists have specialized credentials/certificates/affiliations in the HR community and have significant employment/benefit law knowledge.

 

This is the job description for the position:

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

 

1. Responsible for all human resource activities to include employment, compensation, labor relations, benefits, and training and development.

2. Interview job applicants; review application/resume; evaluate applicant skills and make recommendations regarding applicant's qualifications.

3. Develop and maintain relationship with employment agencies, universities and other recruitment sources.

4. Prepare and maintain company salary structure, job documentation, and job evaluation systems. Complete salary survey questionnaires.

5. Prepare, process and distribute payroll.

6. Design and conduct new employee orientations.

7. Administer and explain benefits to employees, serve as liaison between employees and insurance carriers.

8. Work with union representative to resolve labor relation issues.

9. Recommend, develop and schedule training and development courses.

10. Provide advice, assistance and follow-up on company policies, procedures, and documentation.

11. Coordinate the resolution of specific policy-related and procedural problems and inquiries.

12. Recommend, develop and maintain human resource data bases, computer software systems, and manual filing systems.

13. Develop and recommend operating policy and procedural improvements.

14. Other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

1. Perform specific research/investigation into operational issues, as requested.

2. Provide on-the-job training to new employees.

 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

 

1. Basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills required. This is normally acquired through a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Knowledge of multiple human resource disciplines. Knowledge of federal and state employment and benefit laws. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to analyze data and provide recommendations. This is normally acquired through a combination of the completion of a Bachelor's Degree and three to five years of human resource experience.

3. Visibility requires maintaining a professional appearance and providing a positive company image to the public.

 

 

 

 

However, some LARGE companies have many, many HR Generalists, who are under a HR Manager, who is then under an HR Director. In such a situation, the HR Generalist's role is limited to things like payroll, or gathering/submitting certain forms, etc., much more paper-pushing than anything. In that position, you can train and work your way into the more significant responsibilities.

Edited January 17, 2008 by Star Gazer

[dropdeadlegs]

This is a guess, I don't know for sure.

 

I figure a HR specialist knows the ins and outs of every aspect of Human Resources. A HR generalist might not be as knowledgeable, but would still have a fairly broad understanding of many of those same aspects.

 

I've never worked in HR, but I know it covers hiring, firing, severance, benefits- including medical, dental, vision, disability, death, etc. - and probably some knowledge of 401-k, ESOP's etc. Then there's all that "company policy" stuff involving discrimination and equal employment opportunity, too.

 

A "generalist" might only work with one or two of these areas.

 

Just guessing, mind you. You probably already know more than I do if you're in this field.

[allina]

Thanks guys (well girls )

 

You are correct SG I am under-qualified but I am still being considered. My BA is not HR related but I have some past management experience. I think I'm well liked at work and they see potential in me. Also I think that by putting me in a position that is normally a bit out of my reach they'll be able to pay me way less than a qualified HR generalist

 

I'm just trying to get an idea if this is a direction I want to go in career wise. I still have NO IDEA what I want to do with myself, but at the same time I feel like I have a lot of options (I still CAN go to law school ) But if I make changes/take risks I want them to be worth it and I want to feel like I understand what I'm getting myself in to.

[Star Gazer]

Like I said - I think you totally have the personality and potential for the position. If you can train your way into it, GREAT.

 

In preparation for an interview or whatever, just Google the hell out of the position, read as many job descriptions as possible, and familiarize yourself with the responsibilities of the job.

[dropdeadlegs]

allina,

 

My sister worked for a large publishing company in NY (on Long Island) and quickly rose up the ladder in telecommunications. She started as a grunt making less than $20k and in about 7 years was in management making well over $100k and in meetings all day.

 

When she married, she didn't want a job that required so much travel and she went into HR, and she excelled there. She didn't have a degree of ANY kind, just a simple high school diploma. Her pay went WAY down, but that was a sacrifice she felt was important to a good family life.

 

My point is that when you are well liked in a company, anything is possible. If they see potential, they can, and will, overlook the usual requirements of someone off the street.