What does a Human Resources Officer do?
A role in developing, advising on and implementing policies relating to the effective use of staff in an organisation. The overall goal is for a settled, motivated workforce with the right balance in terms of skill and experience, with training and development opportunities to enhance performance and achieve the company’s business aims.
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Discover our business coursesWhat skills does a Human Resources Officer need?
- Organisational skills
- Commercial awareness
- Numerical skills - a strong set of IT skills is needed if you’re required to manage or operate payroll and benefits systems
- A thorough approach to work and strong attention to detail
- Good interpersonal skills that enable you to form effective working relationships with people at all levels of an organisation
- Knowledge of HR and employment law
- Sensitivity and understanding
- Integrity and approachability so that people feel they can discuss confidential issues with you
- Administration skills
- Customer service skills
- Ability to interpret statistical data
- The ability to form working relationships with people at all levels
- Influencing and negotiation skills
- Willingness to challenge organisational culture where necessary.
What are the responsibilities of a human resources officer?
Human resources officers add value to the company they support and deal with staff at all levels in organisations.
They could:
- Plan and put into place employee training and development activities
- Help recruit new employees
- Liaise with a range of people involved in policy areas such as staff performance and health and safety
- Undertake regular salary reviews
- Give advice on pay negotiations, redundancy and employment law
- Maintain confidential employee information
- Keep up to date with equality, health and safety laws
- Arrange employee support services like welfare and counselling
- Give advice on sickness absence, performance and employment relations
- Deal with grievances and implement disciplinary procedures
- Develop HR planning strategies, which consider immediate and long-term staff requirements
How to become a human resources officer?
There are many ways to become a human resources officer, from completing an undergraduate degree, to an apprenticeship. Sometimes people may work towards this role once they are already employed by a company. There are also specialist courses offered by professional bodies, which could aid career progression.
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How much does a human resources officer make?
Entry level human resources roles start from £18,000 to £23,000. HR officers can earn up to £35,000, whereas HR managers can make up to £55,000. Salaries for HR directors can reach £80,000.
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