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26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

Stephen Greet

Human Resources (HR)

Human Resources (HR)

Best for candidates with 3+ years of experience

With your job experience and a stunning resume layout, recruiters will be ready to give your application the official stamp of approval.

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Writing Your HR Resume

A company’s most valuable resource is its employees, but it takes a great human resources manager to find, manage, and help those employees succeed within an organization.

From hiring to onboarding to benefits, you know how to help colleagues succeed within a company. When it comes to being a successful human resources (HR) professional, you put people first. But although you can spot a great resume from a mile away,  building a resume  of your own is an entirely different beast.

Our HR resume examples and guide have helped HR professionals learn  how to write a resume  and make a cover letter to  land highly coveted jobs with companies like Facebook and Lyft.  Writing an amazing human resources resume has never been easier!

Human Resources (HR) Resume

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Human resources resume example with 7 years of experience

Why this resume works

  • If you have more than 10 years of experience, you can add a  resume summary  (also called a career summary) to list your HR experience and biggest achievements.
  • Space is limited on your resume, but don’t worry—you’ll have more room to discuss the context of your experience in your  human resources cover letter , so you don’t have to try and cram everything onto your resume.
  • Whenever possible, quantify the scale or impact of your work on your human resources resume. For example, how many employees did you help hire or onboard? What was the scale of the compensation plan you managed? How many disputes did you resolve? Numbers speak louder than words!

Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume

Human resources manager resume example with 6 years of experience

  • Start by listing your hard skills (the tools and technologies you know) and the areas of HR in which you’re an expert, such as Disability or FMLA.
  • Don’t make your skills section a laundry list; only include skills that you can readily demonstrate if asked. Honesty is key!
  • You can help the reader out by  formatting your resume  with your most recent experience first. That way hiring managers see your best roles right away, which will encourage them to keep reading.

Human Resources (HR) Intern Resume

Human resources intern resume example with 5 years of experience

  • Don’t be afraid to showcase your work and accomplishments! Use strong action words like “developed”, “spearheaded”, or “operated” to show hiring managers that you have what it takes to move into roles with more responsibility. 
  • In just two to four sentences, let hiring managers know what company you want to work for, the job title you’re seeking, and what specific skills you have that will be an asset to the company.
  • The key word here is  specific.  A vague resume objective won’t do you any favors!

Entry-Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

Entry-level human resources resume example

  • Have you started a club, held an internship, or had a part-time job? These can all be valuable on your  entry-level human resources resume !
  • You can also highlight your academic abilities by listing your GPA or any awards you won during college. You can even list relevant courses to really show off your skills!
  • Some employers prefer resumes in different formats, so check the  Human Resources job description  if you need to use a  Google Doc template  or a  Microsoft Word template  to format your entry-level human resources resume correctly.

Junior Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

resume for human resources

  • Woah, cowpoke! Hold off for a minute and use our  resume checker  to ensure your Jr. human resources generalist resume is formatted correctly and that you’re using all the gold-standard grammar and punctuation rules.
  • Leverage metrics about the number of employees at each company you’ve worked for, the percent increase in efficiency after implementing a new HR tool, the number of new hires you’ve added, or the increase in qualified applicants you’ve driven through recruitment strategies

Human Resources (HR) Assistant Resume

resume for human resources

  • Above all, be specific. A generic, vague objective only wastes valuable space. Instead, talk about your qualifications for the position at hand, then mention why you want this particular role with this specific company.
  • For example, did you help plan an event that brought in an extra $3K in revenue? Or maybe you collaborated with your HR team to develop new onboarding processes that decreased the cost-per-hire by 21%. Whatever you did, find a way to tell the employer why your efforts mattered on your  human resources assistant resume .

Senior HR Manager Resume

resume for human resources

  • Tell your story with the help of your past work experiences! Enrich your senior HR manager resume by depicting the growth in your career. Mention your early career and how you’ve managed to go from simply revisiting policies to finally improving employee satisfaction rate as a manager.

Senior Human Resources Analyst Resume

resume for human resources

  • A senior human resource analyst resume that gleams with moments you introduced new processes, designed more effective systems, developed better problem-solving strategies, or launched products shows that you’re innovative. And guess what, recruiters have a thing for such candidates.

HRIS Analyst Resume

resume for human resources

  • As long as you list tools like Tableau, Oracle HCM Cloud, or even TSheets, you’ll be able to convince a would-be employer that you know the ins and outs of visualizing employee data that help an organization reduce its turnover rates.

HR Analyst Resume

resume for human resources

  • Make your HR analyst resume more eye-catching by choosing the “Standout” template and picking a yellow tone that is cool on the eyes. Back this visual appeal with a degree such as a Bachelor’s in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources that you’ve accomplished and show that you’re a professional in handling employee behavior and data.

HR Compliance Resume

resume for human resources

  • Use and highlight bullet points like “lowering instances of compliance violations by 17%” in your previous roles. These metrics will do the job of solidifying your interest and ability to ensure all workspace operations are compliant with state and federal laws.

Human Resources Recruiter Resume

resume for human resources

  • For example, you must show your unmatched competencies in skills and tools that track, assess, and help onboard new hires smoothly.

Human Resources Administrator Resume

resume for human resources

  • A great example you can use in your human resources administrator resume is underscoring your input in achieving a 42% increase in promotion rates for employees under your supervision.

Human Resources Associate Resume

resume for human resources

  • However, it’s not enough to state that you’re a team player; your human resources associate resume must also show your contribution in identifying, interviewing, and onboarding new hires.

Human Resources Executive Resume

resume for human resources

  • For instance, integrating Tableau’s HR data analytics dashboard to support decision-making would give recruiters a reason to pick your human resources executive resume ahead of others.

Human Resources (HR) Director Resume

resume for human resources

  • Use your work experience bullet points to showcase a variety of skills, like management, collaboration, data analysis, and mentorship. Think of each bullet point as a separate skill you want to showcase.
  • Using a  resume template  can help you easily change stylistic elements to suit your fancy, like colors, font types, and layouts. Be creative and go for it!

Human Resources (HR) Coordinator Resume

resume for human resources

  • Set a timer for six seconds. Now, read through your resume until the timer runs out. What stands out the most?
  • Hopefully, “numbers” was your top answer. Numbers are easier to scan, and they’re great at showing how you improved your workplace, so include them when you can!
  • Try to include rates like ROIs, time and cost per hour, the staff you oversee, reviews, error reductions, efficiency improvements, and employee retention time.
  • While you don’t have to use an outline, we would recommend it, especially if you haven’t  written a resume  in a while.

Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

Human resources generalist resume example with 20+ years of experience

  • Use small amounts of color (and different font types) to break up an otherwise-monotonous page of black text and draw attention to section headers.
  • However, if you personalize your summary by calling out the employer and the role by name, as well as listing your most relevant achievements, you should add it in to help make a great first impression!

Human Resources (HR) Representative Resume

Human resources representative resume example with 3+ years of experience

  • While that’s understandable when you make a  resume outline , your resume must be polished and customized to highlight past experience that is applicable to the new job you desire.
  • In general, we recommend including three to four work experience listings total so you can expand on each. Any more than four, and it starts to get pretty overwhelming!
  • This way, you can quickly review your resume against the job description to create a resume  for every job for which you apply!

Human Resources (HR) Data Analyst Resume

resume for human resources

  • Always double (and even triple)  check your resume  for any typos or grammatical errors before you turn it in. Even areas that you think are perfect, like your Contact Information, might have a missed “t” or an extra period.
  • We’d recommend having a friend or colleague read your resume, too, since they’re more likely to notice mistakes. 
  • Font : are you using two fonts, one for your body text and one for your headers?
  • Layout : is your resume easy to read? Do you have headers for each section? 
  • Style : does your resume convey your personality? If not, consider adding some color and different font types, provided your resume is still readable afterwards.

Human Resources (HR) Benefits Specialist Resume

resume for human resources

  • Numbers will encourage hiring managers to slow down and carefully read your text. Plus, they take less space then words and can demonstrate your capabilities faster. So, if you want to demonstrate your capabilities quickly, use numbers! 
  • For example, adding a  resume objective  usually isn’t the best option unless you’ve just changed careers or are starting out in the HR field.

Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

Human resources business partner resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • That internship you had back when pagers and Razr phones were a thing? Probably not relevant—instead, pick three to four recent positions where you’ve showcased your leadership abilities. 
  • We’d recommend listing your experience in reverse-chronological order (aka putting your most recent work experience at the top) to increase the chances of making a good first impression right away.

Human Resources (HR) Recruitment Coordinator Resume

Human resources recruitment coordinator resume example with 2 years of experience

  • That’s right. Your resume doesn’t need to be boring to command respect. In fact, a bold color can demonstrate confidence and individuality, which can make you an even more desirable candidate. 
  • A note of caution: While more companies are valuing individuality and personality, there are times when muted colors (think deep navy, slate gray, or hunter green) may be more appropriate. This may be especially true if you’re applying to work in HR for a legal or investment firm.

Human Resources (HR) Specialist Resume

Human resources specialist resume example with 2+ years of experience

  • If yes, use our human resources specialist resume to add a dedicated section where you can add certs and improve your chances of being hired.

Chief Human Resources (HR) Officer ( CHRO ) Resume

resume for human resources

  • With a cluttered template, you run the risk of leaving an employer overwhelmed and unsure of where to look on your resume. Using a clean template, like our Elegant, Official, Standout, or Professional templates, will let a recruiter focus on what’s important and help you put your best foot forward.

VP HR Resume

VP HR resume example with 3+ years of experience

  • If you’re applying for a senior-level position, like Vice President of HR, you’ve probably got a ton of experience under your belt. Still, your resume should ideally fit into one page, so select your most substantial achievements at each role to mention under your work experience in your VP HR resume.

Related resume guides

  • Office Administrator
  • Talent Acquisition
  • Operations Manager

Job seeker stands between two plants and looks through binoculars, searching for job

You could be an employer’s dream candidate, but you won’t be hired if your resume isn’t readable or logical. So before your professional resignation letter hits your current employer’s desk, walk through our guide on the top resume formats, what to include in your contact header, and how to make your HR resume readable for employers and ATS.

resume for human resources

Top resume formats

The top three  resume formats  for 2024 are reverse-chronological, functional, and combination/hybrid. Each format showcases your aptitude for the job in different ways.

  • Reverse-chronological : This format stresses your career progression by putting your most recent job at the top. It’s easy to skim, but it can reveal gaps in employment or career changes.
  • Functional : Skills are the name of the game with this format, which highlights position-related and transferable skills alike. However, it can confuse ATS and recruiters since it’s not common.
  • Combination/hybrid : It’s the best of both worlds with an in-depth skills section and a work history section, but it can be hard to format and isn’t ATS-friendly.

We believe the reverse-chronological format, as shown below, is the best choice for a human resources resume because it’s easy for ATS and recruiters to read quickly and tells a consistent, steady of your career.

HR resume work experience

Include the right details in your contact header

Your contact header is where you list (surprise, surprise) your contact information. In this section, you’ll want to include the following:

  • Job title you’re seeking
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • City/State (optional)
  • Professional links (optional but recommended)

Since your contact header is the first thing recruiters will read, you need to design it carefully. Place your contact header at the top of your resume, either centered or left-aligned, to make it easy to spot. If you’re struggling to fit everything, remove the optional elements or go down a font size.  Just make sure it’s no smaller than your resume body text . 

You should also adjust the color, font style, and layout. Giving your name a different font and a color block outline can showcase your personality and desired role. No matter what you do with your contact header, just ensure it’s easy to read and looks professionally appealing.

Our resume examples can offer inspiration if you’re struggling to format your contact header.

Make your HR resume readable for software and people

HR professionals know the hiring process is complex, so ATS can be a lifesaver when used well. That means that when you write your HR resume, keep ATS in mind to avoid getting the boot.

Our tips on formatting elements can help you format your resume to impress ATS and employers.

  • Margins : Avoid margins smaller than half-inch or larger than one inch to give your resume a professional and clean appearance.
  • Fonts : Sans-serif fonts are the best for ATS readability, but unusual fonts aren’t a good choice. Choose safe standards like Arial, Verdana, and Helvetica.
  • Font sizes : Overly large or small fonts are overwhelming and hard to read. Use 10 or 12-point font sizes to keep reading a cinch.
  • Header names : ATS systems aren’t programmed to recognize creative header names, so stick to industry standards like “work experience” and “skills.”
  • Skills:  Include skill keywords listed on the job description to ensure your resume passes ATS inspection.
  • Logical order : ATS and recruiters read resumes quickly, so organize your resume according to industry recommendations. Namely, put your contact header at the very top and put your work experience in the middle.
  • One page : Recruiters have limited time to read endless qualifications, so keep your resume to a single page. 
  • File type : Some ATS won’t recognize .dot, .txt, .jpg, or other file types that aren’t .docx. Submit your resume as a Word document and PDF to cover all your bases.

resume for human resources

Write a Winning HR Resume

Writing an effective resume  is an overwhelming process, but human resource professionals can get it done in no time by writing only a section at a time.

In the following sections, we’ll introduce:

  • Using an objective/summary effectively
  • Listing your HR experience
  • Choosing the appropriate skills
  • Writing the education section and adding optional elements
  • Tailoring your HR resume
  • Editing your resume for maximum impact

resume for human resources

Determine whether you should use an objective/summary

Many people will argue that a  resume objective  or summary is a waste of space that’s “me-centric.” Yet, a worthwhile objective or summary can showcase your qualifications and give a snapshot of  how  you can impact a business. 

Good objectives and summaries tell the recruiter why you should be hired in three sentences or less. They should highlight your skills while expressing how you’ll use your unique experience in the role for which you’re applying. 

Objectives are typically used when you’re changing careers or just starting out, and they focus on your strengths and transferable skills. Summaries are used for those who have been in their career field for some time, and they function as a snapshot of your long-standing career.

You may not need a summary or an objective, but if you do choose one, always tailor it to each job for which you apply. 

For example, generic objectives give nothing more than buzzwords like this:

  • Talented human resources professional seeking new opportunities. Skilled at hiring, management, and communication.

This doesn’t tell the recruiter anything about the candidate’s unique experience (or  anything  about the candidate at all). A good objective is specific and personable, like this example:

  • Compassionate and detail-driven HR professional with 3 years of experience. I want to use my interpersonal communication skills and conflict resolution abilities to increase employee satisfaction at CORE. My goal is always to foster relationships from the start of the onboarding process, resulting in a 15% decrease in ETR. 

Similar to the example above, notice how this savvy candidate tailors the career objective to the target business.

HR resume career objective

Summaries are excellent tools if you’re further along in your career. If you’re SHRM-SCP certified or have been in management for years, you should use a  summary for your resume . Summaries can be difficult, though, because you have to cram in years of experience, often resulting in something that looks like this:

  • Experienced HR professional who is organized and passionate about people. I am certified and ready to bring my 10+ years of communication, training, and administration skills to your company. 

It’s not bad per se, but it’s vague and not tailored to the company. The one below gives examples of the applicant’s skills and what they’ll provide for their employer:

  • Onboarding and employee training are my specialties as a PHR-certified manager with 10+ years of HR experience. I’m passionate about talent acquisition, coaching, interviewing, and compensation/benefits. I wish to use my skills to increase employee satisfaction and training effectiveness while decreasing time-to-hire and time-to-productivity at CORE.

Like the visual below, the above summary explains goals, specialties, and what the candidate can do for their future employer. When writing your objective or summary, make sure it’s detailed and concise to showcase your best qualities.

HR resume summary

List your HR work experience

HR professionals wear a lot of hats, so it can be tempting to cram in as many past jobs as you can to showcase your adaptability and skills. This results in a resume that’s overloaded without a clear focus.

Instead, list  two to four of your most relevant job experiences . Doing so provides a clear story of your career and gives you room to expand on the responsibilities and skills you obtained from each position. 

If you lack formal job experience, list internships, volunteer/leadership work, and projects related to your desired HR position.

resume for human resources

Write actionable bullet points

Bullet points are the bread and butter of your experience section, so your writing should be as specialized as possible in this area. Use active verbs and targeted language without resorting to personal pronouns to create the most impact. Consistency is key, so match your verb tenses and either use punctuation or avoid it altogether.

Excellent bullet points for an HR resume are distinct and concise. Use the following examples to help you craft amazing bullet points on your resume: 

  • Enforced compliance with federal, state, and company employment laws
  • Created individualized employee performance reviews in collaboration with management quarterly
  • Educated employees on company policies, procedures, and compensation during employee training
  • Established a standard set of onboarding processes, including interviewing, office setup, and software training

These bullet points showcase your specialized skills and highlight your accomplishments most effectively and efficiently. 

resume for human resources

Harness the power of numbers

Metrics are frequently missed in HR resumes, but they’re a huge asset. They’re definitive proof that you’ve done your job well. So, you should aim to include metrics on 50 percent of your job description bullet points.

When discussing your job responsibilities , try to include some of the following  HR metrics :

  • Improved time-to-hire
  • Increased employee retention
  • Increased employee satisfaction
  • Increased employee performance

Below are some sample job description bullet points using the above metric types. 

  • Established improved hiring processes, including quarterly job description updates, sourcing plans, and training/development opportunities for current staff, reducing the time to hire by 7 days
  • Provided individualized guidance through weekly one-on-one meetings with new staff members, resulting in 13% higher employee retention than in previous years
  • Distributed satisfaction surveys in meetings and incorporated feedback into procedures over 6 months, resulting in 50% higher satisfaction rates than the previous year
  • Encouraged employees in weekly meetings with special shout-outs and consistently pointed employees to HRIS records in case of concerns regarding payroll, benefits, or training, resulting in 15% higher employee performance than the previous quarter

resume for human resources

Choose your HR skills selectively

The skills section on an HR resume presents your attributes and qualifications in an easy way to read. Regardless of your experience, this section showcases why you’re the best candidate for the job because you possess the traits and knowledge the employer is seeking. 

This is why ATS prioritizes skill keywords to weed out candidates, so nailing this section is crucial. To ensure you stay on the recruiter’s list, choose skills that appear in the job description or those related to similar HR positions. 

Below are some good examples of hard and soft skills HR recruiters desire:

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Legal Compliance
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Performance Management
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • HRIS or HRMS
  • PHR Certification
  • Planning and Strategy

These  resume skills  show experience in multiple areas, like recruiting and payroll, while also listing some hard skills like ATS knowledge. 

resume for human resources

Include education, and decide on optional sections

As displayed in the visual below, you’ll need to include education, as most HR positions require a BA in Human Resources Management or associated degrees. Depending on your education level, years in the workforce, and any specializations and certifications, you may need to include different sections on your resume.

For example, if you have multiple certifications, it may not be wise to crowd them all in your objective/summary. Instead, list them in your skills section. 

HR resume education section

You may wonder if you should add a  hobbies and interests section to your resume , but most HR resumes shouldn’t include these. Interests and hobbies can be useful in tipping the scale in your favor, but most often, they don’t increase your chances significantly.

However, if the job description or ad mentions company culture or the importance of interests, you should include an interests and hobbies section. For example, if you apply for an entertainment company position, including your love of Harry Potter and Star Wars might be beneficial.

resume for human resources

Adjust your HR resume accordingly

Every job is different, so each resume you submit should also be unique. Human resources jobs will have things in common, so you don’t need to revamp your resume completely. Still, pay attention to the differences with each position. Tailor your  objective/summary ,  your skills , and  your work experience bullet points  to match the job description or ad for every job to which you’ve applied.

resume for human resources

Edit your HR resume for optimal impact

Although it’s tempting, don’t submit your resume right away! Even though it’s technically complete, there could be mistakes you’ve overlooked.

Walk away for a day or two and let others read it. Once you’ve refreshed your mind, come back and  check your resume  one last time for any errors. Then make the necessary changes until your HR resume is spotless.

resume for human resources

Nail the interview and get hired

The last step is to celebrate and prepare for your interview! You can use our  resume checker  to upload your resume and check it against our AI-powered tips or use our  free resume maker , which allows you to create resumes from scratch. Just remember, whenever you apply for a job, you’ll want to tailor your resume again. Good luck—we’re rooting for you!

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24 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Human resources professionals have a wealth of opportunities across different industries. our sample hr resumes can help you get hired in 2023 (google docs and pdfs attached)..

Hiring Manager for Human Resources (HR) Roles

Human resources (HR) is a dynamic, rapidly expanding field that offers many potential career paths. Any company can benefit from having a skilled human resources professional on board to hire the right people, develop their talents, and help them succeed in their roles. After all, great employees are some of the most valuable assets a company can have. Whether you’re seeking to become a human resources generalist, assistant, manager, or director, you can expect to work closely with other people and influence the culture of the company you’re working for. In addition to hiring and training new employees, your responsibilities could include managing performance, resolving conflicts, and communicating company policies to staff. In the past, human resources roles were more heavily focused on administrative tasks such as payroll and benefits. While modern human resources professionals still do some of these duties, they are also leaders who support team members and provide guidance to others. The demand for these talented professionals is steadily growing, and jobs for human resource managers and specialists are expected to increase by 6-7% over the next decade -- faster than the average growth rate in other professions. If you’re applying for positions within human resources, you’ll need to show that you are adept at working with others and can juggle a wide range of responsibilities. How do you create a human resources resume that reflects the qualities recruiters are looking for in 2023? Read on to see our resume templates for inspiration.

Human Resources (HR) Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

  • Human Resources (HR) Manager
  • Entry Level Human Resources (HR)
  • Human Resources (HR) Business Partner
  • Human Resources (HR) Recruiter
  • Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director)
  • Human Resources (HR) Administrator
  • Human Resources (HR) Generalist
  • Human Resources Assistant
  • Human Resources Coordinator
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Vice President of Human Resources
  • VP of Human Resources (VP HR)
  • Benefits Specialist
  • Benefits Manager
  • Benefits Analyst
  • Benefits Coordinator
  • Benefits Administrator

Jump to a resource:

  • Keywords for Human Resources (HR) Resumes

Human Resources (HR) Resume Tips

  • Action Verbs to Use
  • Bullet Points on Human Resources (HR) Resumes
  • Related Other Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 24: Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume Example

The human resources manager is an integral role in any company. The HR manager is responsible for a wide array of duties related to employee satisfaction, retention, and onboarding. They may pilot employee recognition programs, revise benefit packages, create training programs, and much more. Human resources managers are dynamic individuals with great people skills and great problem-solving abilities. To become a human resources manager, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology or sociology. A master’s degree isn’t always necessary but can help you land this role more easily. Hiring managers will look for someone with previous experience as a recruiter, HR generalist, or training specialist. To land this role, you should demonstrate your past experience in improving employee experience and retention.

A Human Resources Manager resume showcasing experience in managing HR operations, developing HR policies, and fostering a positive work environment.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources (HR) Manager resume in 2024

   highlight previous success in improving employee retention or satisfaction.

Companies rely on HR managers to identify and implement strategies to keep good employees around. For this reason, it’s important to highlight any initiatives you have successfully led regarding employee satisfaction or retention on your resume. If you have it, you should also include the data that shows exactly how much you were able to improve.

   Gain relevant certifications to become a human resources manager

To strengthen your resume, you can gain relevant certifications in human resources. A common certificate to obtain for this role is the SPHR (senior professional in human resources) credential. These certifications show hiring managers you are educated and up-to-date on effective human resources strategies.

Gain relevant certifications to become a human resources manager - Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources (HR) Manager resume

Template 2 of 24: human resources (hr) manager resume example.

Human resources manager jobs are usually senior roles that come with added responsibilities. As a human resources manager, you’ll likely oversee the interviewing and hiring of new employees, and you’ll also have a hand in planning and carrying out administrative functions at the company. A resume like this one will showcase your years of experience in human resources. You can use your bullet points to illustrate your stellar interpersonal, organizational, and management skills.

Human resources manager resume with past promotions and work experience

   Highlights extensive experience in the human resources field

If you’re seeking a human resources manager job, your work history and accomplishments should be front and center on your resume, as shown in this example. When discussing your previous human resources roles, make sure to give examples of how you managed others, created new policies, devised strategies, and led new initiatives that positively impacted the companies you worked for.

Highlights extensive experience in the human resources field - Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume

   Shows leadership through promotions

To land a senior-level role, you need to show leadership and initiative. As a human resources manager, you’ll train, coach, mentor, and guide others, so you need to be a strong leader. Pointing out promotions at past jobs shows that you are a leader as well as an exemplary employee who is committed to their professional growth.

Shows leadership through promotions - Human Resources (HR) Manager Resume

Template 3 of 24: Entry Level Human Resources (HR) Resume Example

As an entry level Human Resources (HR) professional, you'll be focusing on supporting various HR functions like recruitment, employee relations, and training. It's essential to stay updated on recent HR trends, such as remote work policies and data-driven decision making. When crafting your resume, keep in mind that employers are looking for candidates who understand the importance of clear communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills within the HR role. In recent years, HR has seen a shift towards a more strategic and data-driven approach. Therefore, ensure that your resume reflects your understanding of these trends and how they can be applied to your potential position. Employers will be looking for someone who is proactive and eager to learn in this ever-evolving industry.

An entry level HR resume highlighting internships and communication skills.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Human Resources (HR) resume in 2024

   highlight relevant internships or projects.

As a new entrant to the HR field, it's important to showcase any relevant internship or project experiences that demonstrate your understanding of HR concepts and hands-on application. This will help employers see your potential to contribute effectively in the HR role.

Highlight relevant internships or projects - Entry Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

   Emphasize people and communication skills

Strong people and communication skills are crucial for success in HR. Make sure to highlight how you have successfully navigated interpersonal situations, resolved conflicts, or led team initiatives in previous roles or academic settings.

Emphasize people and communication skills - Entry Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Human Resources (HR) resume

Template 4 of 24: entry level human resources (hr) resume example.

Entry-level human resources professionals can play important roles within a company, too. As human resources assistants or coordinators, they can start learning the ropes of an organization and do clerical duties to help support their department. To get one of these jobs, create a resume like this one to highlight your human resources-related education and internship history.

Entry-level human resources resume with educational history, internship experience, and volunteer projects

   Emphasis on HR-related education and internships

This resume starts out with the candidate’s education, and you can clearly see that he or she studied human resources management. If you have this type of degree, make sure to mention it prominently. Any internship experiences in human resources -- as well as achievements such as training and leading team building workshops -- can also help strengthen your job application.

Emphasis on HR-related education and internships - Entry Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

   Relevant school and volunteer projects, related to transferrable skills in HR

In addition to formal education and internships, this resume sample lists school and volunteer projects that relate to human resources. You can use community service and other projects you’ve done to demonstrate other relevant skills such as organization, coordination of activities, and leadership.

Relevant school and volunteer projects, related to transferrable skills in HR - Entry Level Human Resources (HR) Resume

Template 5 of 24: Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume Example

As a Human Resources (HR) Business Partner, you'll play a crucial role in aligning HR strategies with business needs. The industry has been rapidly evolving, with a growing focus on employee engagement, organizational culture, and data-driven decision-making. When writing your resume, it's important to showcase your expertise in these areas, as well as your ability to adapt to changing business environments and effectively communicate with diverse groups of stakeholders. To stand out as an HR Business Partner, your resume should not only highlight your core HR competencies but also demonstrate your business acumen and strategic thinking skills. Show your prospective employer that you understand their industry and company-specific challenges by tailoring your resume to the unique needs of their organization.

HR Business Partner resume focusing on analytics and strategic partnerships

Tips to help you write your Human Resources (HR) Business Partner resume in 2024

   highlight your hr analytics skills.

HR Business Partners increasingly rely on data to drive informed decision-making on workforce planning, talent management, and employee engagement. Ensure your resume demonstrates your ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop data-driven recommendations to meet business objectives.

Highlight your HR analytics skills - Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

   Showcase strategic partnerships

As an HR Business Partner, the ability to collaborate with key stakeholders, including senior management, is essential. Highlight instances where you've successfully partnered with various departments to align HR initiatives with overall business strategies and positively impact organizational outcomes.

Showcase strategic partnerships - Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources (HR) Business Partner resume

Template 6 of 24: human resources (hr) business partner resume example.

A human resources business partner functions as a consultant to a company’s senior management. These professionals provide insights and develop human resources strategies to benefit employees as well as the company itself. If you’re pursuing one of these roles, choose a resume like this one to show that you have previous experience in the field, strong analytical skills, and strategic decision-making abilities.

Human resources business partner resume with strong action verbs and job-related metrics

   Bullet points feature strong action verbs which stress HR skills

In this resume template, the bullet points begin with strong action verbs that highlight the candidate’s consultative and managerial skills. Using verbs such as “conducted”, “led”, “established” and “educated” helps show your proactivity and frame your achievements in a favorable light.

Bullet points feature strong action verbs which stress HR skills - Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

   Uses specific HR-related metrics

Most of the accomplishments mentioned in this resume’s bullet points also include specific metrics (e.g. “saved the company nearly $200,000” or “cut training hours by 5 hours per session”). It’s essential to use specific examples like these to show how your actions and decisions achieved tangible results.

Uses specific HR-related metrics - Human Resources (HR) Business Partner Resume

Template 7 of 24: Human Resources (HR) Recruiter Resume Example

A human resources recruiter is an especially important role at any company. This role is responsible for finding talent, filling open roles, and identifying which candidates' applications will move forward to the next step in the interviewing process. In this role, you will be responsible for tasks such as posting advertising job openings, creating job descriptions, opening conversations with qualified applicants, and determining which applicants should be considered for the role. To become a human resources recruiter, you will need a mix of relevant knowledge and experience. Those chosen for this role typically have a relevant bachelor’s degree in a field like psychology or sociology. Hiring managers will also be looking for someone with HR and/or recruiting experience, such as in previous roles as a headhunter or talent acquisition specialist. Ideal candidates for the human resources recruiter role will have superb people skills, an ability to collaborate internally, and outstanding communication skills, both verbal and written.

A Human Resources Recruiter resume highlighting experience in sourcing, screening, and interviewing candidates, as well as a strong understanding of HR processes and regulations.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources (HR) Recruiter resume in 2024

   highlight previous experience in creating qualified applicant pools.

The recruiter is the person who gives the initial assessment of whether a candidate is qualified for a role or not. For this reason, you should demonstrate any experience you have leading or assisting in the early hiring process. If you do not have that experience, you could also highlight related experiences such as being involved in an internal promotion decision-making process.

Highlight previous experience in creating qualified applicant pools - Human Resources (HR) Recruiter Resume

   Showcase your ability to give constructive feedback

Often, the human resources recruiter must give candidates feedback about their initial interview. They may also be expected to relay feedback from hiring managers to the candidate. For this reason, you should demonstrate any experience you have conducting difficult conversations or giving constructive feedback, even if it was in a different role or field.

Skills you can include on your Human Resources (HR) Recruiter resume

Template 8 of 24: human resources (hr) recruiter resume example.

Where other human resources professionals oversee staff for the duration of their employment, recruiters focus exclusively on filling open jobs within the company. They may write job postings, review resumes, conduct interviews, and hire the most qualified candidates. When you’re applying for a recruiter position, your resume should demonstrate that you are comfortable and experienced with all aspects of the hiring process, as shown in this resume sample.

resume for human resources

   Tailored to the specific recruitment job

This resume example highlights specific work experiences that are relevant to the job at hand. It’s great to point out any previous recruiting or hiring experience you have to show that you can handle duties like enhancing candidate screening, leading recruitment projects, and spearheading diversity initiatives.

Tailored to the specific recruitment job - Human Resources (HR) Recruiter Resume

   Effective use of skills section to stress core HR & recruiter skills

Being well-versed in software like ATS or LinkedIn Recruiter can make you even more marketable as a candidate since you may need to use these programs on the job. Make sure to use your skills section to list your hard skills in recruiting software.

Effective use of skills section to stress core HR & recruiter skills - Human Resources (HR) Recruiter Resume

Template 9 of 24: Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) Resume Example

As a Senior HR Manager or HR Director, you'll play a critical role in shaping the company's talent management strategy and ensuring smooth HR operations. With the rise of remote work and an increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion, a strong resume showcasing your expertise is more important than ever. To create a standout resume, focus on highlighting your ability to lead HR teams and develop impactful programs that align with company objectives. In today's competitive job market, employers are looking for HR leaders who can adapt to changing business needs and create a positive employee experience. To catch their attention, your resume should demonstrate your ability to drive innovation and foster a collaborative work environment. Additionally, showcasing your knowledge of HR-related laws and regulations, as well as your ability to analyze data and make informed decisions, will make you a more attractive candidate.

A resume sample for a Senior HR Manager or HR Director role

Tips to help you write your Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) resume in 2024

   highlight your strategic hr skills.

As a Senior HR Manager or HR Director, you need to showcase your ability to think strategically and develop HR initiatives that align with overall business objectives. Include examples of how you've effectively implemented talent management programs, workforce planning, or diversity and inclusion initiatives that drove positive results.

Highlight your strategic HR skills - Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) Resume

   Provide quantifiable achievements

Rather than just listing your job responsibilities, focus on your resume's impact by providing quantifiable achievements. Mention how you've improved employee engagement, reduced turnover, or streamlined HR processes. Using specific metrics to illustrate your success can help you stand out among other candidates.

Provide quantifiable achievements - Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) Resume

Skills you can include on your Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) resume

Template 10 of 24: senior hr manager & hr director (human resources director) resume example.

If you work in human resources for long enough, you might eventually reach the top of the ladder as a senior manager or director. When you become a human resources director, you’ll be in charge of the entire department, overseeing managers, specialists, assistants, and others. If you want the job, your resume needs to show plenty of experience in human resources as well as management and leadership roles.

resume for human resources

Tips to help you write your Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) resume in 2024

   accomplishments with measurable outcomes related to leadership and hr.

Vague assertions about what you achieved at past jobs don’t tell a hiring manager very much. Wherever possible, provide specific numbers and figures to quantify your impact, especially if you managed large numbers of employees or implemented staffing initiatives that led to significant growth and change.

Accomplishments with measurable outcomes related to leadership and HR - Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) Resume

   Action verbs demonstrate leadership

Beginning your achievements with verbs like “partnered”, “coached”, or “managed” leaves a strong impression on recruiters, and it also accentuates your skills as a manager and leader of people. These are essential for Senior and Director roles.

Action verbs demonstrate leadership - Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) Resume

Skills you can include on your Senior HR Manager & HR Director (Human Resources Director) resume

Template 11 of 24: human resources (hr) administrator resume example.

An HR Administrator sits at the intersection of HR and data, so when crafting your resume, you want to demonstrate you're no stranger to either. From managing databases, to processing employee updates and ensuring regulatory compliance, strong organizational skills and attention to detail are your bread and butter. Lately, we're seeing a shift towards HR tech, with HRIS and ATS systems becoming commonplace. So, understanding these tools is growing increasingly vital. In your resume, remember to highlight how you've used data insights to drive HR decisions. Modern companies value data-driven decision-making, so showcasing your ability to use analytics to shape initiatives can make your resume stand out. Additionally, remember that HR is about people - showcasing your interpersonal skills is equally important.

A screenshot of an HR Administrator's resume showcasing HR tech proficiency and regulatory knowledge.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources (HR) Administrator resume in 2024

   include hr tech proficiency.

As technology reshapes HR, knowing your way around an HRIS system is a big selling point. Don't just list the systems you've used, though. Go a step further: illustrate how you've used these tools to make HR processes more efficient.

   Highlight Regulatory Knowledge

The regulatory landscape is constantly evolving, and HR Administrators shoulder the responsibility of keeping their companies compliant. Highlight instances where you've navigated regulatory changes or used compliance knowledge to prevent potential issues.

Skills you can include on your Human Resources (HR) Administrator resume

Template 12 of 24: human resources (hr) administrator resume example.

A human resources administrator role can be a stepping stone to a management or director position. Administrators help with tasks like maintaining personnel files, assisting with hiring, preparing documents, and updating databases. To become an administrator, choose a resume similar to this one to showcase your administrative abilities and analytical skills. You should also be able to show that you work well with people and that you have been a leader to others.

Human resources administrator resume sample with relevant skills, certifications, and past promotions

   Demonstrates professional growth via promotions

Although human resources administrator roles typically aren’t as senior as management jobs, it’s still beneficial to mention past positions where you were promoted or given more responsibilities. Promotions highlight your proactivity and show that you are capable of being a leader.

Demonstrates professional growth via promotions - Human Resources (HR) Administrator Resume

   Relevant skills and certifications to HR and recruitment

This resume lists technical skills that are specific to human resources as well as clerical work. It’s helpful to also list any certifications or other credentials you have in human resources so you can be even more competitive for the job.

Relevant skills and certifications to HR and recruitment - Human Resources (HR) Administrator Resume

Template 13 of 24: Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume Example

In the world of Human Resources, an HR Generalist is seen as a jack-of-all-trades. You're the go-to expert handling a broad range of responsibilities, from recruitment to employee relations, benefits, and more. Lately, companies are seeking HR generalists who are not only well-versed in traditional HR skills, but also data-driven and tech-savvy. They're eager to find those who can leverage people analytics and HR Information System (HRIS) software to lead data-backed organizational decisions and streamline HR processes. When crafting your resume, remember that it's your personal marketing tool. It's not merely a list of job responsibilities; it's an opportunity to sell your unique blend of skills, experiences, and traits. Show your value proposition - how you can make a difference in the company's HR practices and overall business strategy. Be specific, include relevant achievements, and quantify them if possible.

A screenshot of a well-crafted HR Generalist resume highlighting technical proficiency and a blend of soft and hard skills.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources (HR) Generalist resume in 2024

   highlight tech savviness and analytical skills.

In the skills section, emphasize your proficiency in HRIS, applicant tracking systems, and people analytics. Describe specific instances where you used these tools to improve HR processes or make data-informed decisions.

Highlight tech savviness and analytical skills - Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

   Showcase a blend of soft and hard skills

As an HR generalist, you need both people skills and technical know-how. Therefore, strike a balance in your resume. List instances where you managed conflict resolution or employee relations, and also detail your understanding of HR laws and compliance.

Showcase a blend of soft and hard skills - Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources (HR) Generalist resume

Template 14 of 24: human resources (hr) generalist resume example.

Human resources generalists can have wide-ranging responsibilities including hiring, administrative tasks, managing employee performance, and developing company policies. If you’re going for this job, use your resume to highlight your versatility and competence in a variety of different human resources-related duties (such as managing payroll or creating programs to boost employee morale).

Human resources generalist resume with specific action verbs and human resources experience

   Focuses on human resources experience

Generalists need to be able to perform a variety of responsibilities well. Focusing your resume on similar roles that you’ve done in the past -- even if the duties weren’t identical -- shows that you can wear different hats and are experienced with the type of work that you might do in your new job.

Focuses on human resources experience - Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

   Good use of action verbs which highlight HR experience

Using clear and specific language also paints a clear picture of what you accomplished at past jobs and how you did it. Action verbs such as “managed”, “developed”, and “structured” are very human resources-specific and showcase relevant skills for the job.

Good use of action verbs which highlight HR experience - Human Resources (HR) Generalist Resume

Template 15 of 24: Human Resources Assistant Resume Example

An HR assistant is tasked with completing everyday administrative tasks in the HR department, as well as any other HR-related task assigned to them. These tasks may include, doing background checks on potential employees, onboarding new employees, assisting in organizing payroll, etc. 
Recruiters will be looking for an educational background in HR or a related field, as well as experience as an HR assistant. Here is an example of a strong HR assistant resume.

A human resources assistant resume sample that highlights the applicant’s HR-specific skill set and successful experience.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources Assistant resume in 2024

   include hr-specific tools..

While you will need to be experienced with administrative tools, you also need to make sure your tools section includes HR-related tools such as ATS software, and resume databases. Ensure you keep up to date on the newest software being used, and consistently update your tools list accordingly.

Include HR-specific tools. - Human Resources Assistant Resume

   Use metrics to show your workload capabilities.

Show recruiters how much you can do by including figures when discussing your experience in previous positions. E.g. this applicant ‘copied 200 documents, sent 490 emails…’. Recruiters will always want to hire someone whom they know will be value for money and will get a lot done efficiently.

Use metrics to show your workload capabilities. - Human Resources Assistant Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources Assistant resume

Template 16 of 24: human resources coordinator resume example.

This is an entry-level position where you will be tasked with HR administrative duties and with serving as a middleman between employees and managers, directors, or third parties. In essence, your job is to receive any questions or concerns employees may have and work to get them the assistance they need. To thrive in this position you need to have excellent communication skills, an in-depth knowledge of the workings of the HR department, and experience with industry-standard HR tools. Take a look at this strong HR coordinator resume.

A human resources coordinator resume sample highlighting the applicant’s strong skill set and successful previous experience.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources Coordinator resume in 2024

   get an internship in hr if you have no experience..

Internships are a great way to bolster your resume if you have no professional experience in the HR department. They are slightly easier to get, and can give you a good training and great accomplishments to list on your resume. This will be beneficial when applying for a full-time position.

Get an internship in HR if you have no experience. - Human Resources Coordinator Resume

   Show experience in a range of HR tasks.

As a general coordinator, you may find yourself handling tasks in a variety of areas of HR. Show recruiters that you are well equipped for this, by showing them that you have experience in most tasks under HR’s purview. This applicant did this by listing the main tasks under the ‘Technical Skills’ section.

Show experience in a range of HR tasks. - Human Resources Coordinator Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources Coordinator resume

Template 17 of 24: human resources specialist resume example.

The HR specialist position is an entry-level position. Tasks that may be assigned to you include, hiring staff, onboarding, maintaining employee records, training staff, and mediating workplace disputes, among others. Recruiters will expect to see a bachelor’s degree in human resources or a similar field at the very least. Beyond this, they will be looking for experience in the HR field and evidence of skills useful for the position. Take a look at this strong HR specialist resume.

A human resources specialist resume sample that highlights the applicant’s HR certifications and expansive skill set.

Tips to help you write your Human Resources Specialist resume in 2024

   gain hr certification..

Stand out from the crowd by going the extra step to get certifications in the HR field. It shows recruiters your dedication to the profession and also shows your capabilities.

Gain HR certification. - Human Resources Specialist Resume

   Ensure your skills list is updated and thorough.

Ensure all the industry-standard HR tools are listed in your skills section. Do a crash course for those you are not familiar with. Go the extra step and research what tools the company you are applying to use and ensure all those tools are listed.

Ensure your skills list is updated and thorough. - Human Resources Specialist Resume

Skills you can include on your Human Resources Specialist resume

Template 18 of 24: vice president of human resources resume example.

A vice president in HR is an executive in charge of overseeing the department's operations. Your purview is broad and your tasks may be many. Tasks you can expect include hiring HR managers, participating in the creation of HR’s goals and strategy, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, etc. Soft skills required include excellent communication skills, organizational and management skills, and problem-solving skills, just to name a few. As this is an executive-level position, a strong and impressive resume is a must. Recruiters will expect to see a bachelor’s degree in HR, or a similar field, and will highly prefer to see a Master’s in HR, law, or a similar field. Beyond your qualifications, you will need to show a long and successful history working in management or executive positions in HR. Take a look at this recruiter-approved resume.

A vice president of Human Resources resume sample that highlights the applicant’s managerial and HR skill set and extensive experience.

Tips to help you write your Vice President of Human Resources resume in 2024

Many recruiters will require HR certification for this executive-level position. It might be certification like SHRM or whichever certification is recognized in the state or country of application.

Gain HR certification. - Vice President of Human Resources Resume

   Create a balanced skills list.

Your skills and tools should be a balance between management tools and HR tools. Ensure the industry standard tools for both functions are included and take a crash course for any you are not yet familiar with.

Create a balanced skills list. - Vice President of Human Resources Resume

Skills you can include on your Vice President of Human Resources resume

Template 19 of 24: vp of human resources (vp hr) resume example.

The VP of Human Resources is a senior level position found in most companies. The VP of HR is responsible for overseeing the operations of the entire human resources department. This means they set the framework for several HR functions, including the hiring and firing process. The VP of Humans Resources is also responsible for reviewing employee benefits packages, compensation plans, and training resources. Hiring managers will be looking for someone with several years of experience and strong leadership skills for this role. A good candidate will have at least a bachelor's degree in human resources or a related field like sociology or psychology. A master's degree in any of these disciplines may help you stand out. Hiring managers will also be looking for someone with several years of progressive HR experience.

A resume for a VP of human resources with a master's degree in psychology and experience as a human resources manager and director.

Tips to help you write your VP of Human Resources (VP HR) resume in 2024

   showcase leadership skills used in prior roles.

As the VP of Human Resources oversees an entire department’s operations, it’s important for the VP of HR to be knowledgeable and effective in leading others. Previous leadership experience, such as a role as the director of HR, will show you have experience overseeing the complexities of the HR department. Bonus points if you can point to a difficult task you lead, such as negotiating employee salaries, in a previous role.

Showcase leadership skills used in prior roles - VP of Human Resources (VP HR) Resume

   Consider obtaining a certification in human resources

Though a relevant education and experiences may be enough to land this role, gaining additional certifications in human resources will only enhance your resume for this senior-level role. There are several certifications available, such as the SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) credential. Taking and passing a course like this shows hiring managers you have in-depth knowledge of high level human resources responsibilities.

Consider obtaining a certification in human resources - VP of Human Resources (VP HR) Resume

Skills you can include on your VP of Human Resources (VP HR) resume

Template 20 of 24: benefits specialist resume example.

As a Benefits Specialist, you're the one that understands the ins and outs of employee benefits programs, and you help others navigate this often confusing space. From health insurance to retirement plans, you're the go-to person for all these corporate well-being plans. Recently, there's been a shift in the industry, with many companies prioritizing employee happiness and wellness, leading to a broader scope for benefits specialists. When you're drafting your resume, it's critical to showcase your expertise in this area, and also evidence of your ability to keep up with evolving trends and ensuring the benefits programs are current, comprehensive, and competitive. For a role like this, your resume needs to clearly communicate your knowledge of benefits administration and your ability to work well with employees at all levels of the company. Showcasing your interpersonal skills is crucial as well, as a significant part of your role involves interacting with staff, explaining benefits, and addressing their concerns. Also, since benefits can have legal and financial implications, it's essential to highlight your understanding of relevant legislations and your attention to detail.

A professional resume of a Benefits Specialist showcasing relevant skills and experience.

Tips to help you write your Benefits Specialist resume in 2024

   include specific benefits programs expertise.

As a Benefits Specialist, your understanding of specific benefits programs is a key selling point. Be sure to list the ones you've worked with, for example, health insurance, 401(k) retirement plans, or wellness programs, and how well you navigated them.

Include specific benefits programs expertise - Benefits Specialist Resume

   Showcase problem-solving skills

You often resolve complex issues related to benefits administration. Discuss a few instances where you've resolved such problems effectively. Maybe you helped a team understand a new retirement plan or streamlined the benefits enrollment process, making it easier for all.

Showcase problem-solving skills - Benefits Specialist Resume

Skills you can include on your Benefits Specialist resume

Template 21 of 24: benefits manager resume example.

As a benefits manager, you're the person who makes sure employees get the most out of their compensation packages. From healthcare to retirement plans, you're the expert on all the perks a company can offer. The trend in the industry is to offer more tailored and flexible benefits, so having a knack for customization would be a bonus. When crafting your resume, realize that you're not simply listing your experiences - you're selling your ability to enhance employee welfare and the company's bottom line. The game is changing with a growing focus on employee wellness and work-life balance. In line with this, businesses are seeking benefits managers who can innovate and propose creative, holistic packages. They're particularly interested in individuals with a solid understanding of legal compliance and the capacity to negotiate effectively with vendors. For your resume, remember it's not just about what you've done, but how you've made a difference.

A resume screenshot displaying job-specific skills for a Benefits Manager role.

Tips to help you write your Benefits Manager resume in 2024

   show experience in negotiating and dealing with vendors.

Since a Benefits Manager is frequently involved in negotiating costs and services with vendors, include specific examples where you saved money or improved service levels. Talk about the size, scale, and outcomes of your negotiations, and how you made the workforce's life better.

Show experience in negotiating and dealing with vendors - Benefits Manager Resume

   Demonstrate your ability to innovate

Prospective employers are looking for Benefits Managers who can think outside the box. Provide examples of creative benefits initiatives you initiated, focusing on those that had significant positive impact on employee satisfaction and retention.

Skills you can include on your Benefits Manager resume

Template 22 of 24: benefits analyst resume example.

If you're aiming for a Benefits Analyst role, you're probably a whiz at dissecting insurance plans, retirement packages, and employee perks. But remember, it's a field that's evolving with the rise of remote work and changing work dynamics. Gone are the days when this role was limited to crunching numbers - in today's world, you'll need to demonstrate an understanding of a diverse range of benefits that cater to an increasingly disparate workforce. When you're crafting your resume, focus on how you can help prospective employers strike the right balance between cost-effective and competitive benefits packages that attract and retain talent. As a Benefits Analyst, you've got to keep up with the latest industry trends such as wellness programs and flexible work arrangements. This knowledge can reflect well in your resume and help you stand out. Modern companies are not just looking for a benefits guru, but someone who can communicate effectively with employees about their packages. This could translate to explaining complex benefit terms in easy-to-understand language or breaking down financial implications of varying benefit options. So, when you're polishing your resume, make sure to include examples that display your analytical skills alongside your knack for clear and effective communication.

A resume screenshot showcasing relevant experience and skills for a Benefits Analyst role.

Tips to help you write your Benefits Analyst resume in 2024

   display understanding of benefits trends.

Include on your resume any experience or knowledge you have about trending benefits such as remote work structures, health and wellness programs, mental health benefits, etc. Tailoring your resume to reflect these trends shows your proactive approach and your adaptability to changing work dynamics.

   Showcase communication skills with technical knowledge

As a Benefits Analyst, it's fundamental to harmonize technical knowledge with communication skills. You're not just interpreting complex data, but also explaining it to employees. Use your resume to demonstrate this balance. Include specific instances where you've simplified complex benefits information for diverse audiences.

Showcase communication skills with technical knowledge - Benefits Analyst Resume

Skills you can include on your Benefits Analyst resume

Template 23 of 24: benefits coordinator resume example.

Writing a resume for a Benefits Coordinator role is akin to creating a roadmap of your expertise in employee benefits and program management. As the middle ground between employees and management, a Benefits Coordinator needs to show a deep understanding of benefits administration, compliance regulations, and a keen eye for detail. Lately, there's been a trend for Benefits Coordinators to take on more strategic roles with a greater focus on employee wellness and engagement. Balancing this dual function of administrative expertise and strategic insight should be your resume's primary goal. When crafting your resume, remember that it's your first impression to a prospective employer. Make it count. Show data-driven achievements that can quantify your contribution to previous employers. Prove your knowledge of industry software and your ability to negotiate with benefits providers. And don't forget to demonstrate your communication and interpersonal skills, which are crucial for this role.

A well-structured resume for a Benefits Coordinator role showcasing key skills and achievements.

Tips to help you write your Benefits Coordinator resume in 2024

   include specific benefits programs you've managed.

Benefits Coordinators work with a variety of programs, so indicate your experience managing health insurance, retirement plans, or employee assistance programs. This showcases your familiarity with different benefits and exhibits your versatility.

Include specific benefits programs you've managed - Benefits Coordinator Resume

   Show evidence of your strategic involvement

You should mention initiatives where you've contributed strategically, such as implementing wellness programs or driving engagement through benefits offerings. This illustrates your ability to think beyond mere administration and highlights your capacity for strategic thought.

Show evidence of your strategic involvement - Benefits Coordinator Resume

Skills you can include on your Benefits Coordinator resume

Template 24 of 24: benefits administrator resume example.

Being a Benefits Administrator is a blend of technical knowledge and dealing with people. Your job primarily involves managing employee benefits programs, understanding complex legal and tax regulations, and making sure these are communicated effectively to employees. Recently, companies are turning to these folks to help introduce wellness programs and assist in managing mental health benefits, two growing trends. On your resume, it's valuable to show not just your ability to handle the nitty-gritty of the role, but also how you've helped people understand and make the most of their benefits.

A sample resume for a Benefits Administrator role.

Tips to help you write your Benefits Administrator resume in 2024

   show proficiency with benefits software.

As a Benefits Administrator, you are expected to be familiar with benefits administration software. Detail any experience you have with specific platforms, such as Workday or PeopleSoft, which can enhance your credibility.

Show proficiency with benefits software - Benefits Administrator Resume

   Illustrate your communication skills with examples

Listing 'excellent communication skills' isn't enough. Provide examples of how you've explained complex benefits information in a clear, easy-to-understand way to employees. This will show hiring managers you are not just proficient in benefits administration, but can also effectively convey this information to others.

Illustrate your communication skills with examples - Benefits Administrator Resume

Skills you can include on your Benefits Administrator resume

We consulted with hiring managers and recruiters at top companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to gather their best advice for creating a winning Human Resources (HR) resume. The following tips will help you craft a resume that stands out and showcases your HR expertise.

   Highlight your HR specialties

Emphasize your experience in specific HR areas, such as:

  • Talent acquisition and recruiting
  • Employee relations and conflict resolution
  • Performance management and employee development
  • Compensation and benefits administration

By showcasing your expertise in these areas, you demonstrate your value to potential employers. For example:

  • Developed and implemented a new performance management system, resulting in a 25% increase in employee engagement scores
  • Negotiated and administered employee benefits packages, reducing healthcare costs by 15% while maintaining competitive offerings

Bullet Point Samples for Human Resources (HR)

   Quantify your HR accomplishments

Use metrics to illustrate the impact of your HR initiatives. Avoid vague statements like:

  • Improved employee retention
  • Streamlined hiring process

Instead, provide specific numbers and percentages to show the measurable results of your efforts:

  • Reduced employee turnover by 30% through the implementation of a comprehensive onboarding and mentoring program
  • Decreased time-to-hire by 40% by optimizing the recruitment process and leveraging social media and employee referrals

   Showcase your HR certifications and training

Include any relevant HR certifications or training you have completed, such as:

  • SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional or Senior Certified Professional)
  • PHR or SPHR (Professional in Human Resources or Senior Professional in Human Resources)
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training
  • Conflict resolution or mediation courses

These certifications and training programs demonstrate your commitment to professional development and your expertise in the HR field.

   Tailor your resume to the company culture

Research the company's values, mission, and culture, and align your resume accordingly. For example, if the company emphasizes work-life balance, highlight your experience in implementing flexible work arrangements or employee wellness programs.

Avoid using generic language that could apply to any company, such as:

  • Seeking a challenging HR role in a dynamic organization

Instead, customize your resume to the specific company and position:

  • Passionate about contributing to [Company Name]'s mission of fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment through innovative HR practices

   Demonstrate your leadership and collaboration skills

HR professionals often serve as leaders and collaborators within their organizations. Showcase your ability to work effectively with various stakeholders, such as:

  • Partnering with executive leadership to develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business objectives
  • Collaborating with department heads to identify and address talent gaps and training needs
  • Leading cross-functional teams to drive HR projects and initiatives

Provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated leadership and collaboration in your previous roles, and the positive outcomes you achieved as a result.

   Highlight your experience with HR technology

Showcase your proficiency with HR technology platforms and tools, such as:

  • Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) like Taleo, iCIMS, or Greenhouse
  • Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) like Workday, PeopleSoft, or SAP SuccessFactors
  • Performance management software like 15Five, Lattice, or BambooHR

Demonstrating your experience with these tools shows that you are tech-savvy and can efficiently manage HR processes in a modern workplace. For example:

Implemented and administered Workday HRIS for a 500-employee organization, streamlining HR processes and improving data accuracy and reporting capabilities.

How can you use your resume to make yourself even more competitive for a human resources role? Here are a few words of advice.

   Highlight your achievements in past human resources roles

When you primarily work with people, your achievements may not always be easy to put into numbers. But whenever you can, you should include specific, quantifiable results that you achieved. Hiring managers want to see evidence that you’ve made a difference at places where you have previously worked. For example, if you launched an initiative that improved employee retention by 70% at one of your old jobs, that is a measurable accomplishment worth noting in your resume. Or you could estimate how many people you interviewed, hired, and onboarded. It might not always be possible to quantify what you achieved, but whenever possible, you should quantify the results of your efforts.

   Tailor your resume to reflect human resources-specific skills

Are you a team player with outstanding relational skills? Are you organized to a fault and a pro at time management? Emphasize these skills through examples from your previous work, internship, or educational experience. It’s also helpful to mention any experience you have with management, analytics, payroll, benefits, hiring, training, and coaching, as well as any proficiencies with human resources-related software. And on top of that, you should tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for so it stands the best chance of getting through an automated tracking system (ATS). You can customize your resume by finding common keywords in human resources job descriptions and sprinkling them throughout your document.

   Describe what you’ve accomplished using strong bullet points

We’ve mentioned this point before, but you should always use bullet points in your work experience section to talk about your achievements at your former jobs. And there’s a big difference between strong bullet points -- the kind that will help you get hired -- and weak ones that don’t provide any information. A strong human resources resume needs to have bullet points detailing how you’ve led teams to success, improved company culture, and implemented new strategies at places where you’ve worked in the past. Let’s look at a couple examples of weaker and stronger bullet points.

  • Helped with hiring new team members

This is a weak bullet point because it contains very little information and raises some questions. In what way did you help with the hiring process? What part did you play? How many people did you hire and how did it impact the company you worked for? More details and stronger language would help make this point more compelling.

  • Interviewed, hired, and onboarded 150 new trainees during first year on the job.

The above bullet point is much stronger than the first example because it a) leads with a strong action verb, b) specifies what role you played in bringing new trainees on board, and c) quantifies how many people you hired. An achievement like this one looks much more impressive on a resume and is more likely to catch a recruiter’s eye.

Writing Your Human Resources (HR) Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. include your name and relevant hr certifications.

Your name should be the most prominent element in your resume header, typically in a larger font size than the rest of your contact information. If you have any relevant HR certifications, such as SHRM-CP or PHR, include them next to your name to immediately showcase your qualifications.

For example:

John Smith, SHRM-SCP 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890

Avoid cluttering your header with irrelevant details or certifications that are not directly related to HR, as this can distract from your key qualifications.

2. Include your location, but not your full address

While it's important to include your location to show that you are a local candidate or open to relocation, there is no need to include your full street address in your resume header. Simply listing your city and state is sufficient.

Good examples:

  • New York, NY
  • Chicago, IL
  • San Francisco, CA

Avoid including your full address, as this takes up valuable space and can raise privacy concerns:

  • 123 Main Street, Apt 4B, New York, NY 10001
  • 456 Oak Avenue, Chicago, IL 60007

3. Use a professional email address and include your LinkedIn

Your contact information should include a professional email address that incorporates your name, such as [email protected] or [email protected] . Avoid using casual or outdated email addresses like hotmail or yahoo accounts, as these can come across as unprofessional.

In addition to your email, consider including a link to your LinkedIn profile in your resume header. This allows recruiters to easily view your expanded professional history and network.

[email protected] | linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and optimized before including the link in your resume. A poorly crafted LinkedIn can do more harm than good in your job search.

  Summary

A resume summary for Human Resources (HR) roles is an optional section that can be helpful in certain situations. It's a brief statement at the top of your resume that provides a high-level overview of your skills, experience, and career goals. While a summary is not always necessary, it can be useful if you're changing careers, have a lot of experience, or want to add context that may not be immediately clear from the rest of your resume.

However, it's important to note that you should never use an objective statement in place of a summary. Objective statements are outdated and focus on what you want from an employer, rather than what you can offer them. Instead, use a summary to highlight your most relevant qualifications and showcase the value you can bring to the role.

How to write a resume summary if you are applying for a Human Resources (HR) resume

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Human Resources (HR) resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Human Resources (HR) Resume Summary Examples , or Human Resources (HR) Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the specific HR role

When writing a summary for an HR resume, it's crucial to tailor it to the specific role you're applying for. HR is a broad field with many different specialties, such as recruiting, employee relations, training and development, and compensation and benefits. Your summary should reflect the specific area of HR you're targeting and highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to that role.

For example, if you're applying for a recruiting position, your summary might look something like this:

Results-driven HR professional with 5+ years of experience in full-cycle recruiting for tech startups. Proven track record of building and executing successful recruiting strategies, sourcing top talent, and improving time-to-hire metrics. Skilled in using applicant tracking systems and social media to identify and engage passive candidates.

2. Quantify your achievements

To make your summary more impactful, include specific metrics and achievements that demonstrate your success in previous HR roles. Quantifying your accomplishments helps provide context and shows the tangible impact you've had on an organization.

Here are some examples of how to quantify your HR achievements in your summary:

  • Reduced turnover rate by 20% through implementing employee engagement initiatives
  • Improved time-to-fill metrics by 30% through optimizing recruiting processes
  • Managed benefits programs for 500+ employees across multiple states

Avoid using vague or subjective statements in your summary, such as:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Team player with a strong work ethic
  • Passionate about helping others

3. Highlight your HR certifications and technical skills

If you have any relevant HR certifications or technical skills, be sure to mention them in your summary. Certifications such as SHRM-CP (Certified Professional), PHR (Professional in Human Resources), or SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Similarly, if you have experience with specific HR software or tools, such as Workday, ADP, or Taleo, include them in your summary. Many companies use these tools to manage their HR processes, and having experience with them can be a valuable asset.

SHRM-CP certified HR generalist with 7+ years of experience managing employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance for mid-sized companies. Proficient in Workday HCM, ADP Workforce Now, and Microsoft Office Suite. Proven ability to develop and implement HR policies and procedures that align with business objectives and legal requirements.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show hiring managers what you've accomplished in previous roles and how you can drive results for them. HR roles require a unique mix of technical knowledge, business acumen and people skills. Here's how to make your work experience section compelling and relevant:

1. Highlight HR projects and initiatives

Instead of listing your daily responsibilities, focus on the key projects and initiatives you led or contributed to. Show how you've made an impact on the organization. Some examples:

  • Implemented a new applicant tracking system that reduced time-to-hire by 20%
  • Launched a diversity and inclusion program that increased underrepresented minority hires by 15%
  • Conducted a compensation benchmarking study and revised pay bands to ensure external competitiveness and internal equity

Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Numbers jump off the page and make your contributions more tangible.

2. Showcase your HR specializations

HR is a broad field with many subspecialties like recruiting, compensation, learning & development, HRIS and more. Emphasize the areas where you have the most expertise and interest. For example:

  • Managed full-cycle recruiting for 50+ positions annually across engineering, sales and marketing
  • Administered benefits programs for 500+ employees, including health insurance, 401(k) and wellness benefits
  • Developed and delivered management training programs on topics like performance management, coaching and employment law compliance

If you're a generalist, highlight your breadth of knowledge. But if you're targeting specialist roles, double down on your most relevant skills and experiences.

3. Demonstrate your business acumen

The best HR professionals don't just execute HR tasks – they drive business results. Show that you understand the company's goals and can align HR strategies to support them. Some examples:

  • Partnered with business leaders to develop a workforce planning model that identified key skills gaps and saved $500K in recruiting costs
  • Implemented a new sales incentive plan that increased revenue by 10% while keeping compensation costs flat
  • Negotiated a new benefits package that reduced costs by 15% while maintaining employee satisfaction scores above 90%

Think beyond your day-to-day HR duties. Connect your work to the bigger picture of business success.

4. Highlight your progression and promotions

Recruiters love to see candidates who have been recognized and rewarded for strong performance. If you've been promoted or taken on increasing responsibilities, make that clear in your work experience section. For example:

HR Manager (2019-Present) HR Generalist (2017-2019) HR Coordinator (2015-2017) Acme Corporation

This shows a clear trajectory of growth within a single company. Even if you haven't gotten a formal promotion, you can still show progression in your bullet points:

  • Managed benefits for 100 employees in 2018; now managing benefits for 500+ employees in 2022
  • Supported 10 requisitions per month in 2020; now supporting 30+ requisitions per month in 2022

Highlighting your increasing scope and responsibilities demonstrates your potential to keep growing in your career.

  Education

The education section of your resume is where you list your degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework. It's a critical part of your resume, especially if you're a recent graduate or applying for an entry-level position. Here are some tips to help you write a strong education section for your human resources resume.

1. List your degrees in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent degree and work backwards. Include the name of the institution, the degree you earned, and the year you graduated. If you have a master's degree, you can leave off your bachelor's degree.

Here's an example of how to list your education:

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA), Human Resources Management, 2020
  • University of California, Los Angeles

2. Include relevant coursework and certifications

If you're a recent graduate or have taken courses relevant to HR, include them in your education section. This can help show the hiring manager that you have the skills and knowledge needed for the job.

Bad example:

  • Relevant coursework: Introduction to Psychology, World History, Creative Writing

Good example:

  • Relevant coursework: Human Resource Management, Organizational Behavior, Employment Law

3. Keep it brief for senior-level positions

If you have several years of experience in HR, your education section can be much shorter. You don't need to include as much detail as a recent graduate would.

Bad example for a senior HR manager:

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, concentration in Human Resources University of Texas at Austin Graduated: May 2005 GPA: 3.8 Relevant coursework: Human Resource Management, Organizational Behavior, Employment Law, Compensation and Benefits

Good example for a senior HR manager:

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration University of Texas at Austin

Action Verbs For Human Resources (HR) Resumes

Aspiring human resources professionals should have specific achievements they can point to from past jobs as proof of their skills. Using clear, direct action verbs to talk about these accomplishments can heighten the perceived value of what you’ve done. This list of action verbs includes ones that are especially useful for talking about leadership and mentorship experiences. In human resources positions, you’ll often need to manage, mentor, facilitate, motivate, organize, and counsel -- and using the right verbiage can help you showcase your most relevant skills in only a few words.

Action Verbs for Human Resources (HR)

  • Implemented
  • Interviewed
  • Restructured
  • Streamlined

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Human Resources (HR) Resumes

Skills for human resources (hr) resumes.

For any human resources role, you need to be a “people person” with the ability to communicate well, lead effectively, and handle a variety of interpersonal situations that may arise. You also have to be extremely organized, detail-oriented, and skilled at enforcing policies in a diplomatic but honest way. When applying for a human resources job, carefully craft your resume with specific examples of your people skills, administrative competency, and leadership abilities. Hard skills (such as fluency in Workday or ATS software) should be listed in your skills section.

  • Accounts Payable
  • Accounts Receivable (AR)
  • Account Reconciliation
  • Human Resources (HR)
  • General Ledger
  • Financial Statements
  • Financial Reporting
  • Bookkeeping
  • Accounts Payable & Receivable
  • ADP Payroll
  • Financial Accounting
  • Bank Reconciliation
  • Soap Making
  • Payroll Processing
  • Benefits Administration

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Human Resources (HR) Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Human Resources (HR) Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Human Resources (HR) job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

Top Human Resources (HR) Skills and Keywords to Include On Your Resume

How to use these skills?

Resume bullet points from human resources (hr) resumes.

You should use bullet points to describe your achievements in your Human Resources (HR) resume. Here are sample bullet points to help you get started:

Identified, assessed and on-boarded 12 mid-level employees for new Boston office in <6 months

Introduced standardized on-boarding templates and training program for 100+ new joiners; reduced employee on-boarding time from one month to just one week

Proposed and implemented new Employee Incentive program, decreasing employee turnover by over 25%

For more sample bullet points and details on how to write effective bullet points, see our articles on resume bullet points , how to quantify your resume and resume accomplishments .

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Human Resources (HR) Resume Guide

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  • All Resume Examples
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  • Human Resources (HR) Cover Letter
  • Human Resources (HR) Interview Guide
  • Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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15 Human Resources Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

15 Human Resources Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Jacob Meade

Human Resources Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

Most popular human resources resumes.

  • Human Resources Generalist
  • Human Resources Recruiter
  • Human Resources Intern
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Entry-Level Human Resources
  • Human Resources Administrator
  • Chief Human Resources
  • Human Resources Director
  • Human Resources Analyst
  • Human Resource Assistant
  • Human Resources Coordinator
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Resume Text Examples

How To Write a Human Resources Resume

  • Entry-Level
  • Senior-Level

15 Human Resources Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Human Resources Generalist Resume Example

Human Resources Generalist Resume Example

Human Resources Recruiter Resume Example

Human Resources Recruiter Resume Example

Human Resources Intern Resume Example

Human Resources Intern Resume Example

Human Resources Specialist Resume Example

Human Resources Specialist Resume Example

Entry-Level Human Resources Resume Example

Entry-Level Human Resources Resume Example

Human Resources Administrator Resume Example

Human Resources Administrator Resume Example

Chief Human Resources Officer Resume Example

Chief Human Resources Officer Resume Example

Human Resources Director Resume Example

Human Resources Director Resume Example

Human Resources Analyst Resume Example

Human Resources Analyst Resume Example

Human Resource Assistant Resume Example

Human Resource Assistant Resume Example

Human Resources Coordinator Resume Example

Human Resources Coordinator Resume Example

Human Resources Manager Resume Example

Human Resources Manager Resume Example

Human Resources Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

  • Chief Human Resources Officer

Mary Compton (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Des Moines, IA 53958

Recent college graduate with a degree in Human Resources and related internship experience. Hardworking, organized, and adaptable to new work challenges and conditions. Experienced and confident public speaker. Fluent in Spanish and currently learning Japanese.

Work Experience

Intern, Casey’s General Store Corporate Office, Des Moines, IA | January 2022 to May 2022 [Company headquarters with 250+ employees]

  • Helped organize virtual hiring fair and conducted remote interviews with over 30 potential hires
  • Worked with payroll specialist to ensure each employee’s hours were reconciled properly, leading to a payroll accuracy rate of over 95%
  • Gained strong experience in Microsoft Excel, team collaboration, and reporting and documentation

Key Swing Manager, Casey’s General Store, Des Moines, IA | March 2020 to May 2022

[Retail store with 50+ employees]

  • Trained over 10 new employees
  • Made weekly schedule and reminded employees of shift changes, improving attendance rates by 45%
  • Completed daily closing paperwork

Bachelor of Arts (BA) — Human Resources, Iowa State University, Des Moines, IA | September 2018 to May 2022

3.91 GPA | Gamma Phi Beta Sorority | Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society

Jerry Smith (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 4759 Sunnydale Lane, Plano, TX 75071

Human Resources Generalist with 10+ years of experience focused on talent acquisition, development, and performance management.

Professional Experience

Human Resources Manager, Jim’s Widget Factory, Plano, TX | January 2016 to Present

  • Implement company policies to ensure all practices comply with labor and employment regulations
  • Develop targeted outreach practices to increase minority recruitment and ensure compliance with affirmative action policies
  • Monitor scheduled in and out times as well as employee breaks to ensure compliance with employment laws
  • Fostered and maintained a positive work environment, raising staff retention and managing workplace satisfaction to more than 90%

Human Resources Generalist, Citibank, Houston, TX | May 2014 to December 2015

  • Assisted with recruiting and onboarding, and attended all hiring fairs
  • Conducted new hire orientation and continual training
  • Coached department managers to equitably discipline and write up employees as needed
  • Instructed managers on how to complete regular, actionable employee reviews

HR Assistant / Payroll Specialist, Yardham Ford Dealership, Houston, TX | June 2011 to April 2014

  • Created employee incentive programs that improved closure rates
  • Set strategies to improve staff morale
  • Oversaw payroll reconciliation for accuracy
  • Helped reduce employee turnover by 20%

Bachelor of Arts (BA) — Business, The University of Texas at Dallas | 2011

  • Conflict Resolution
  • Labor Relations
  • Microsoft Excel
  • OSHA Regulations
  • Reporting & Documentation
  • Staff Training
  • Task Prioritization
  • Team Collaboration
  • Texas Employment Law
  • Workplace Safety

Certifications

Certified Trainer, National Association of Human Resources

Susan Powell (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 2847 Cypress Drive, Dallas, TX 75023

Human Resources Executive with 15+ years of advancement and experience. Skilled at working with department heads to advance short- and long-term business goals. Consistent success developing comprehensive benefits packages for large workforces.

Human Resources Director, Texas Instruments Corporation, Dallas, TX | June 2016 to Present

  • Encourage department heads to improve overall staff performance and engagement
  • Set new hire training strategies, and create content for specific development programs
  • Implement and administer company benefits packages
  • Spearhead workforce planning and talent development initiatives
  • Deliver targeted solutions to build a highly engaged, results-focused organization

Human Resources Manager, DoubleTree Hotel, Richardson, TX | March 2012 to June 2016

  • Worked with Hilton’s Department of Learning to facilitate regular talent development plans
  • Collaborated on ongoing HR projects to ensure employees upheld company standards
  • Strategized recruitment to meet the hotel’s changing demands
  • Coached department heads to complete each employee’s performance management plans and reviews
  • Developed compensation and benefits program

Human Resources Manager, Hilton Garden Inn, Allen, TX | March 2008 to February 2012

  • Facilitated staff hiring, personnel changes, and conflict resolution
  • Maintained all stages of the recruitment process including job fairs, interviewing, salary negotiation, and new employee onboarding
  • Oversaw all daily HR functions including salary and bonus planning, staffing, performance management, and reporting/analytics
  • Created job descriptions and new hire training plans
  • Drove organization design, workforce planning, and sourcing and staffing

Human Resources Assistant, Kramer Industries, Austin, TX | June 2004 to January 2008

  • Reconciled payroll and taxes
  • Helped develop company benefits packages
  • Conducted ongoing employee training
  • Planned monthly safety meetings and classes as head of company’s Safety Committee

Bachelor of Science (BS) — Human Resources, The University of Texas, Austin | 2004

  • Benefits Administration
  • Cost Reduction & Elimination
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Efficiency Improvement
  • Employment Laws & Regulations
  • Labor Relations & Negotiations
  • Public Speaking & Presentations
  • Talent Acquisition & Retention

Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Amar Singh (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio San Francisco, CA 12345

A results-driven human resources generalist with eight years of experience coordinating HR departments for leading firms such as IBM and Accenture. A proven track record of developing HR programs to improve employee satisfaction and enhance operational effectiveness.

Human Resources Generalist, IBM, New York, NY May 2019 – present

  • Manage and resolve complex employee relations issues, conduct thorough and objective investigations, and develop HR policies for onboarding and offboarding
  • Provide performance management guidance to 20 line managers, including coaching, counseling, career development, and disciplinary actions
  • Develop, implement, and administer human resource programs and policies for staffing, compensation, benefits, visa/green card processing, employee relations, training, and health and safety, contributing to a 20% increase in employee retention

Human Resources Generalist, Accenture, New York, NY June 2016 – May 2019

  • Managed talent acquisition, recruitment, onboarding, and training, successfully filling over 200 positions within the organization
  • Supported the development of new HR policies and cultivated an inclusive, forward-thinking work culture, contributing to a 30% increase in employee satisfaction
  • Conducted regular performance management sessions with line managers to identify areas for improvement, which enhanced team performance and operational effectiveness

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Syracuse, New York, NY  September 2012 – May 2016

  • Communication
  • Employee relations
  • HR administration
  • Learning and development
  • Talent acquisition
  • Professional in Human Resources, (PHR) HRCI, 2019
  • Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR), HRCI, 2016

Skyler Thompson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Nashville, TN 12345

A human resources recruiter with six years of experience, specializing in talent acquisition, recruiting, sourcing strategies, and learning and development. A proven track record of leading high-impact recruitment initiatives and developing dynamic HR programs to drive the retention of top talent and enhance onboarding processes.

Human Resources Recruiter, Cadence Technologies, Nashville, TN May 2019 – present

  • Successfully conduct over 300 interviews, resulting in the hiring of over 150 qualified candidates, contributing to the company’s 30% increase in growth over two years
  • Develop and maintain a robust talent pipeline, leading to a 25 reduction in time-to-fill for open positions
  • Design and implement a comprehensive training and development program to enhance employee onboarding, increase new hire productivity, and drive employee retention

Human Resources Recruiter, Talent Acquisition Inc., Nashville, TN June 2018 – May 2019

  • Sourced, interviewed, screened, and hired up to 60 candidates per week for customer service, collections, and technical manufacturing positions
  • Recruited top talent for a wide range of occupations, including manufacturing, technical, and administrative positions
  • Built a strong talent pipeline through networking and career fairs, reducing the hiring process time by 25%

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN September 2014 – May 2018

  • Employee onboarding
  • Sourcing strategy
  • Professional in Human Resources, (PHR) HRCI, 2020
  • Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR), HRCI, 2019

Kevin Morrison (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Nashville, TN 12345

An entry-level human resources professional specializing in recruiting, HR management, talent acquisition, and employee relations. A strong history of supporting all phases of the hiring process and identifying opportunities to improve time-to-hire.

Human Resources Intern, Google Inc., San Francisco, CA May 2023 – January 2024

  • Supported all aspects of the end-to-end recruitment process for over 300 candidates, including job posting, candidate screening, interview scheduling, and offer negotiation, resulting in a 20% reduction in time-to-hire
  • Collaborated with the human resources team to develop and implement new HR policies and procedures, successfully reducing onboarding time by 15%

Human Resources Assistant, Henderson Recruiting Firm, San Francisco, CA June 2022 – May 2023

  • Assisted in the recruitment process, screening over 500 resumes and scheduling over 200 interviews, contributing to the hiring of over 50 new employees
  • Oversaw employee-related paperwork, maintained comprehensive employee records, and provided support for payroll processing and benefits administration

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA September 2019 – May 2023

  • Candidate sourcing
  • Interview scheduling
  • Talent recruiting
  • Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR), HRCI, 2024

Yaling Zhang (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Miami, FL 12345

A human resources specialist with four years of experience, specializing in employee relations, learning and development, and cross-functional leadership. A proven track record of building collaborative workplace environments and driving employee satisfaction and retention.

Human Resources Specialist, Carson Legal Associates, Miami, FL March 2022 – present

  • Manage and resolve a wide range of complex employee relations issues, liaise between leadership teams and employees, and cultivate a forward-thinking, inclusive work environment, contributing to a 25% increase in employee retention
  • Coordinate cross-functionally with the accounting team to prepare an annual HR budget totaling over $1.5 million
  • Create and implement learning and development programs to enhance team performance and drive operational excellence

Human Resources Specialist, Henderson Recruiting Firm, Miami, FL June 2020 – March 2022

  • Led all aspects of the recruiting process, including sourcing, screening, interviewing, candidate selection, offer negotiation, and onboarding procedures
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations and feedback sessions, leading to a 20% increase in employee performance ratings

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Florida, Gainesville, FL September 2016 – May 2020

  • HR management
  • Policy development
  • Professional in Human Resources (PHR), HRCI, 2023

Raymond Ortiz (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Boston, MA 12345

A human resources professional with entry-level experience, specializing in policy development, talent acquisition, and benefits administration. A strong history of collaborating with HR teams to execute recruiting initiatives and enhance onboarding procedures.

Human Resources Intern, Cohen Legal Firm, Boston, MA October 2023 – May 2024

  • Supported the HR department in recruitment activities to expand the marketing and (information technology (IT) departments, screened resumes, identified qualified candidates, and scheduled interviews, resulting in 50 new hires over a six-month period
  • Collaborated with the HR manager to develop new onboarding materials and procedures, contributing to a 15% reduction in average onboarding time for new hires

Human Resources Assistant, Grayson & Roberts Law Associates, Boston, MA June 2022 – October 2023

  • Coordinated with the HR team to process $200,000 in monthly payroll, administer benefits, resolve employee relations conflicts, and develop new HR policies
  • Maintained and organized confidential employee documentation in compliance with state and federal regulations

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources Boston College, Boston, MA September 2018 – June 2022

  • Benefits administration
  • Payroll processing

Cynthia Roberts (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Detroit, MI 12345

A dynamic human resources administrator with seven years of experience, specializing in performance management, training and development, and recruiting. A proven track record of establishing employee resource groups (EHRs) and cultivating forward-thinking work cultures.

Human Resources Administrator, HVAC Solutions Inc., Detroit, MI  October 2020 – present

  • Develop and implement a new talent acquisition strategy and successfully create an EHR, contributing to a 25% increase in employee retention
  • Resolve a complex range of employee issues and grievances, oversee employee relations and performance management, and successfully create impactful HR policies for a sales organization with over 350 personnel
  • Overhauled the performance appraisal system to better identify strengths and areas of improvement for employees and team managers

Human Resources Administrator, Industrial HVAC Co., Detroit, MI June 2017 – October 2020

  • Led the development of HR strategies, procedures, and policies in alignment with long-term company objectives and financial goals
  • Drove recruiting efforts to acquire and retain top talent, which included developing sourcing strategies and talent pipelines
  • Administered employee benefits and monthly payroll totaling over $250,000

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI September 2013 – June 2017

  • Strategy development
  • Professional in Human Resources (PHR), HRCI, 2018

John Bergsen (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Seattle, WA 12345

A chief of human resources officer with 11 years of experience within the technology industry, specializing in HR strategy, change management, and program management. A proven track record of building high-performance HR organizations from the ground up. A strong history of spearheading diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to foster inclusive work environments.

Chief of Human Resources, Starlight Technologies, Seattle, WA October 2016 – present

  • Define all aspects of HR strategy for a $50 million technology company with 3,000 employees across the U.S., Canada, Japan, and Brazil
  • Develop, build, and lead an HR department with 30 personnel and coordinate with senior leadership teams to execute talent acquisition initiatives and devise learning and development programs
  • Cultivate an inclusive work culture centered on DEI, contributing to a 15% increase in employee satisfaction and retention

Human Resources Director, Vanguard Tech Company, Seattle, WA June 2013 – October 2016

  • Managed and built an HR department with over 25 personnel, oversaw an operating budget of $3.7 million, and developed overarching HR strategy for a technology corporation with over 500 staff
  • Enhanced talent acquisition initiatives by developing strategic partnerships with five recruiting firms, resulting in 300 new hires over a three-year period

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Washington, Seattle, WA September 2013 – June 2017

  • HR strategy
  • Learning and development (L&D)
  • Program management
  • Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), HRCI, 2016

Meera Pate (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio San Diego, CA 12345

A human resources director with 10 years of leadership experience, specializing in organizational development, team management, and HR policy development. A strong history of building and leading diverse HR organizations from the ground up. Adept at identifying opportunities to acquire top talent and drive operational excellence.

Human Resources Director, Foresight Financial, San Diego, CA November 2017 – present

  • Manage and build an HR organization comprised of 25 staff for a leading financial firm valued at $42 million, define HR policies, and identify opportunities to enhance communication between management and team members
  • Develop and implement a new HR strategy that increased employee satisfaction by 20% and reduced turnover by 15%
  • Oversee an HR budget valued at $4.6 million and successfully reduce labor costs by 10%

Human Resources Director, Leighton Investment Co., San Diego, CA June 2014 – November 2017

  • Led a team of 10 HR professionals, oversaw all human resources operations, ensured compliance with labor laws, and managed over $10 million in annual payroll and benefits
  • Drove the implementation of a new HR database system to enhance performance management and facilitate data-driven decision-making for leadership

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of San Diego, San Diego, CA September 2010–June 2014

  • Budget management
  • Continuous improvement
  • Cross-functional leadership
  • Strategic planning

Melissa Anderson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Philadelphia, PA 12345

A human resources analyst with five years of professional experience, specializing in data analysis, policy development, and employee relations. A proven track record of analyzing and interpreting complex HR data to refine policies and drive employee retention. Professional Experience Human Resources Analyst, Ocean Tech Corp., Philadelphia, PA October 2021 – present

  • Conduct comprehensive analysis of HR data to refine policies and organizational strategies, contributing to a 15% improvement in employee retention
  • Support the development and implementation of a new performance management system, contributing to a 20% reduction in project deployment times
  • Collaborated with HR management to analyze recruitment data and enhance talent acquisition efforts, leading to a 10% reduction in hiring costs

Human Resources Analyst, Solaris Technologies, Philadelphia, PA June 2019 – October 2021

  • Conducted and analyzed employee surveys, leading to significant improvements in company policies and benefits
  • Played a key role in the development and implementation of a new employee engagement program, resulting in a 25% increase in employee satisfaction scores
  • Utilized HRIS software to manage and analyze HR data to improve the efficiency of HR operations, including employee onboarding and training

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Human Resources University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA September 2015–June 2019

  • Data analysis
  • HR policy development
  • Performance management
  • Training and development
  • Professional in Human Resources (PHR), HRCI, 2019

A career in human resources gives you a chance to create a better company culture for employees and ensure organizations comply with employment rules and regulations. Find out how to write a human resources resume that showcases your collaboration and communication skills to help land your dream job.

1. Summarize your human resources qualifications in a dynamic profile

Human resources is about helping people and the company you work for, and your profile summary should give a hiring manager an idea of how you do that. Highlight your ability to bridge the gap between the top-level executives and the employees on the front lines. If you thrive on organizing records and reading through employment law, use this space to show your best qualities. Use short sentences and focus on the value you can bring to the position.

Senior-Level Profile Example

Human resources executive with over 15 years of advancement and experience. Skilled at working with department heads to advance short — and long-term business goals. Consistently successful in developing comprehensive benefits packages for large workforces.

Entry-Level Profile Example

Recent college graduate with a degree in human resources and related internship experience. Hardworking, organized, and adaptable to new work challenges and conditions. Experienced and confident public speaker. Fluent in Spanish and currently learning Japanese.

2. Showcase your human resources experience

The professional experience section of your resume is the most important and likely the largest. List your previous positions, including the job title, employer, and dates you worked there. Use strong action verbs to craft bullets that describe your job duties and responsibilities. You can also list specific accomplishments or career highlights in this part, such as how you increased payroll accuracy or implemented a new onboarding process that resulted in higher employee retention rates.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example

Human Resources Director Texas Instruments Corporation, Dallas, TX | June 2016 – present

  • Set new hire training strategies and create content for specific development programs

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example

Intern Casey’s General Store Corporate Office, Des Moines, IA | January 2022 – May 2022

  • Helped organize a virtual hiring fair and conducted remote interviews with over 30 potential hires
  • Worked with a payroll specialist to ensure each employee’s hours were reconciled properly, leading to a payroll accuracy rate of over 95%

3. Outline your education and human resources-related certifications

Showing a potential employer you have the educational background to succeed in a position can better position you to move on to the next hiring round. Your resume should have a section specifically for your education and certifications. Those who work in human resources may have different backgrounds, so it’s okay if your degree isn’t directly related. You can use a few bullets under your education to explain coursework, projects, or other aspects that prepared you for the position. If you have any human resources certifications or payroll credentials, these should also be included in this section.

  • [Degree Name]
  • [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] – [Graduation Month and Year]
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business
  • The University of Texas at Dallas – May 2011
  • [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
  • Certified Trainer, National Association of Human Resources, 2020

4. Outline your most useful human resources skills and proficiencies

Human resources positions involve many types of proficiencies. You need to ensure the company follows all hiring and employment laws, including as those laws get updated, and that processes and systems are in place to make onboarding, payroll, and terminating employees easier. Adding a key skills section to your resume is a great way to show a hiring manager you have what it takes to succeed, and you can pull keywords and phrases from the job description into this section for further customization.

Key Skills and Proficiencies
Change management Compensation administration
Confidentiality skills Data analysis
Diversity initiatives Employee engagement
Employee relations Ethical conduct
HR compliance HRIS management
HR policy development Interpersonal skills
Legal knowledge Onboarding and offboarding
Performance management Problem-solving abilities
Recruitment and talent acquisition Time management
Training and development Wellness programs

How To Pick the Best Human Resources Resume Template

The best human resources resume template for you is the one that positions you as a standout candidate and adequately reflects your skills and experience. As you look at templates, remember hiring managers spend just a few seconds on a resume, so it needs to be clean, easy to read, and well-organized. Make sure the template is easily customizable if you want to swap out a section or two without changing all the formatting and spacing.

Frequently Asked Questions: Human Resources Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for human resources resumes -.

The bullet points in your professional experience section are key to positioning yourself as a top candidate. Each one should start with a strong action verb that effectively describes your duties. But it can be hard to come up with a unique verb for each bullet, especially if you’re a senior-level applicant with a long job history. To help you, we’ve created a list of some common action verbs for human resources resumes.

Action Verbs
Administered Analyzed
Demonstrated Developed
Ensured Established
Facilitated Fostered
Implemented Managed
Onboarded Oversaw
Prioritized Recruited
Resolved Safeguarded

How do you align your resume with a job description? -

Job growth among human resources positions is expected to be faster than average through 2031. While this could mean less competition for available jobs, it’s still important to do what you can to position yourself as a top candidate. Sending out a targeted resume to each position can increase your chances of getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and being called for an interview. Review the job description and emphasize specific qualifications, certifications, or key skills the hiring manager is looking for. Then, work these into your existing resume where possible.

What is the best human resources resume format? -

The best format for a human resources resume is either reverse chronological or combination. A reverse chronological resume is more common and an excellent way to show a detailed work history in human resources and emphasize specific skills and relevant education. A combination resume can help you organize your skills and experience by category if you feel like your work history is repetitive and doesn’t effectively show your qualifications.

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When you’re done customizing your resume, include a tailored cover letter. A human resources cover letter should focus on what appeals to you about the company, such as how a core value or its mission statement matches your work philosophy. It’s also a good place to expand on any relevant career highlights from your resume.

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Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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Jobscan > Resume Examples > Human Resources Resume Examples, Skills and Keywords

Human Resources Resume Examples, Skills and Keywords

In human resources, teamwork and people skills are essential. If you're looking to start your career or shift into a new HR role, you'll need to write an excellent resume. Here's how to target the three most popular HR positions through the right skills and keywords.

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Human resources resume samples

Human resource professionals are vital to keeping big and small companies running smoothly. HR departments handle staffing, conflict resolution, compensation, and many other administrative tasks involved with employment. Depending on the size of a company, an HR department may be a single HR generalist or a collection of specialists and recruiters.

To get a job in HR, you’ll need to create a resume that shows you’re up to the specific job requirements. HR professionals are often held to a higher resume standard than people in other fields. That’s because they’re responsible for vetting and hiring people themselves. You’ll need to use your resume to prove that you understand the field — and work well with people.

Tailor your resume to the position you want . If you’re applying for several types of HR positions, then you should create a specific resume for each. A recruiting resume and an HR generalist resume should focus on different skills and experience.

Below are three human resources resume examples for the three most popular HR jobs: recruiter , entry-level human resources , and HR generalist . You can use these samples to help you put together your own eye-catching resume .

Recruiter Resume Example

Recruiters are responsible for finding qualified candidates for open jobs. Recruiters may work as part of an HR department or for consulting firms to help many clients fill available roles. Either way, they use their judgment and knowledge of the field to bring in new, quality employees. Many recruiters come from other HR roles that involve more work within the hiring process. ‌ Recruiters need to have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask. Most recruiters have many roles they’re trying to fill at one time. Your recruiter resume should focus on your people skills and your past success in filling positions.

This recruiter resume example shows how to list your past HR achievements in a clear and concise manner.

Recruiter Resume Example

Entry-Level Human Resources Resume Example

Newly graduated human resources candidates often take entry-level positions to get hands-on experience. Entry-level HR roles help support larger departments. They usually handle routine administrative tasks and act as the first point of contact. ‌ Teams hiring entry-level human resources don’t expect you to have years of experience. Instead, they want your resume to show how your education has prepared you for the role.

This entry-level human resources resume example demonstrates how to use your education and volunteer experience to appeal to employers.

Entry-Level Human Resources Resume Example

HR Generalist Resume Example

Companies large and small hire HR generalists to handle the majority of human resources tasks. Generalists have a broad understanding of the field without focusing heavily on any one part. An excellent HR generalist may be the only human resources professional a small company needs. ‌ Generalists have a unique challenge with their resumes. Instead of showing how they can do one specific thing, they need to demonstrate the breadth of their knowledge. Generalist resumes should make use of the job history section to showcase a wide variety of skills. ‌ This human resources generalist resume example shows how to list your experience in HR without sounding generic.

HR Generalist Resume Example

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Human resources resume skills and keywords.

Human resources departments are responsible for hiring everyone a company needs. To make the job simpler, they use tools like applicant tracking systems (ATS) . These systems filter out unqualified candidates based on human resources resume keywords . If your resume doesn’t include the right human resources skills and keywords, your application won’t be seen by a person. Using the correct terms in your resume can help you make it through the filters and into an interview.

Top Human Resources Skills

  • Verbal and written communication
  • Multitasking
  • ‌Leadership
  • ‌Legal knowledge
  • HR software
  • Organization
  • Interviewing
  • Conflict resolution
  • Stress tolerance
  • ‌Compensation and benefits management
  • ‌Relationship management
  • Corporate law
  • Talent management
  • ‌Onboarding
  • Recruitment
  • ‌Negotiation
  • ‌Active listening
  • ‌Constructive criticism
  • Team building
  • Applicant tracking systems
  • Fair labor standards
  • Statutory compliance
  • Data analysis
  • Customer service
  • Microsoft Office

Salary Expectations for Popular Human Resources Roles

Human resources salaries depend on your experience and the size of the company. Typically, HR professionals with more knowledge or specialized skills make more than entry-level employees. If you’re in the HR field, you can expect salaries to increase as your resume expands. These median salaries give you an idea of what to expect.

Education and Certification Requirements for Human Resources Resumes

Most HR positions require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in human resources or psychology. There are enough concerns unique to HR that it can be challenging to transition into the field without experience or a relevant degree. A bachelor’s degree in HR will cover how hiring processes work, equal opportunity laws, and standard management policies.

Many HR professionals will get additional certifications after their degree. These certifications cover specific topics and help prepare you for new roles. They may focus on daily needs like relationship management or higher-level tasks like guiding the organization and setting goals.

Standard HR certifications include:

  • The Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) – Certified Professional certificate (SHRM-CP)
  • The SHRM-Senior Certified Professional certificate (SHRM-SCP)
  • ‌The Human Resources Certification Institute’s (HRCI) Professional in Human Resources certificate (PHR)

‌Adding these certificates to your resume shows employers that you’re serious about your job.

person in sofa with computer

  • • Supported employee relations, handling conflicts and improving satisfaction rates by 15%.
  • • Streamlined the onboarding process, reducing time-to-productivity by 25%.
  • • Collaborated with managers to enhance performance management, resulting in a 10% improvement in employee performance.
  • • Developed and implemented HR policies, ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations.
  • • Led talent acquisition efforts, hiring over 50 employees and reducing time-to-fill by 30%.
  • • Maintained accurate employee records and HR databases, ensuring data privacy compliance.
  • • Assisted in developing HR programs aligned with company goals and regulatory requirements.
  • • Managed employee onboarding and offboarding processes, enhancing the new hire experience.
  • • Supported immigration operations by verifying work permits and maintaining records.
  • • Facilitated employee training sessions, including orientation and compliance training.
  • • Resolved employee inquiries related to HR policies and procedures, ensuring accurate and timely responses.
  • • Assisted in maintaining employee records and HR databases, ensuring confidentiality standards.
  • • Supported HR projects aimed at improving employee engagement and retention.
  • • Conducted initial screenings and coordinated interviews for talent acquisition.
  • • Organized employee development programs, contributing to a 12% increase in employee skills.

20 Human Resources Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your HR resume must capture your expertise in people management. It should clearly outline your ability to navigate complex employment laws. Demonstrate your knack for talent acquisition and retention within your resume. Showcase any successful initiatives that improved workplace culture or efficiency.

All resume examples in this guide

resume for human resources

Human Resources Intern

resume for human resources

Entry-Level Human Resources

resume for human resources

Junior Human Resources

resume for human resources

Human Resources Coordinator

resume for human resources

Human Resources Representative

resume for human resources

Human Resources Data Analyst

resume for human resources

Human Resources Benefits Specialist

resume for human resources

Human Resources Specialist

resume for human resources

Chief Human Resources Officer

resume for human resources

Contracts Manager

resume for human resources

Diversity And Inclusion Manager

resume for human resources

HR Assistant

resume for human resources

HR Business Partner

resume for human resources

HR Director

resume for human resources

HR Generalist

resume for human resources

Human Resources Consultant

Resume Guide

Formatting Tips

Experience Section

Hard & Soft Skills

Education & Certifications

Summary & Objective

Additional Sections

Key Takeaways

HR resume example

Finding yourself on the other side of the hiring process can feel a bit strange. You've been the one making hiring decisions, and now you’re the one looking for a job. But don’t sweat it! The good news is that HR specialist jobs are expected to grow  by 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all jobs. So, opportunities are definitely out there. With a top-notch resume, you’ll be back in the hiring seat before you know it!

Let us help you with this. Here’s what our human resources resume guide will teach you:

  • How to choose a modern and professional resume template  for human resources.
  • How to present past job experiences in alignment with HR positions.
  • How to feature key skills on a resume for a human resources position.
  • How to underscore important certifications relevant to human resources.
  • How to include additional sections to boost your HR resume.

If the HR resume isn't the right one for you, take a look at other related guides we have:

  • Transition Manager Resume Example
  • HR Analyst Resume Example
  • HR Generalist Resume Example
  • Talent Manager Resume Example
  • HR Business Partner Resume Example
  • Contracts Manager Resume Example
  • HR Director Resume Example
  • Continuous Improvement Manager Resume Example
  • District Manager Resume Example
  • Recruiter Resume Example

How to format a human resources resume

Your resume's format, structure, and design are essential in making a strong first impression. These elements are not just about aesthetics, they are vital for effectively communicating your professional story.

In human resources roles, as in any profession, there are varying levels of experience and education. Your resume should reflect the job and experience you have.

Here are 3 main resume formats  to consider:

  • Reverse chronological resume :  Ideal for HR professionals with a solid work history, this format lists experience starting from the most recent job and working backward. If you have a progressive career path with consistent achievements in HR roles, the reverse-chronological resume can underline your growth and expertise effectively.
  • Functional resume :  Human resources professionals transitioning careers, with employment gaps, or early in their HR careers might benefit from a functional layout. This format focuses on skills and accomplishments rather than job chronology, allowing you to highlight relevant competencies and achievements irrespective of job sequence.
  • Hybrid resume : Combining elements of both reverse-chronological and functional formats, this hybrid layout allows human resources professionals to show key skills and accomplishments upfront, followed by a concise work history.

To catch the eye of recruiters, organize your resume with these practical tips.

  • Bet on a modern template  to maintain a tidy layout. For example, a double-column template  is a popular choice for many roles, including HR.
  • Select professional fonts  like Rubik, Lato, or Times New Roman, with font sizes between 10 and 12 points.
  • Limit the resume to one page  for early or mid-level careers. A two-page resume  is suitable for more experienced professionals.
  • Set 1-inch margins  to maintain a neat and organized appearance.
  • Feature your name, phone number, location, and professional email address in the header of your resume .
  • Include a photo only if the job ad requests  one and don't forget to save the resume as a PDF  to ensure consistent formatting across platforms.

Study says  that job seekers with up-to-date  LinkedIn profile  links are 71% more likely to get interviews, but under half include this link.

By following these tips, your resume will perform well in ATS systems  and attract recruiters.

Don't miss the chance to give your resume an edge with our intuitive AI resume checker , which provides a free, detailed 16-point assessment.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

With the format finalized, we’ll create resume for human resources that catches recruiters’ eyes, focusing on:

The top sections on a human resources resume:

  • Contact information:  It's crucial because it enables recruiters to get in touch.
  • Professional summary:  It gives a quick overview of your HR skills and qualifications.
  • Work experience: This part is important as it highlights your prior professional experiences in the HR field.
  • Skills and competencies:  Human resources is a skill-intensive role and demonstrating your skills is key.
  • Education and certifications: This section is necessary as it showcases your formal training and education in human resources.

You probably already know, but we’ll refresh your memory about what recruiters look for in these sections of your human resources resume and how they evaluate your qualifications.

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

  • Experience in the field:  This shows that candidates have a solid foundation in human resources practices.
  • Knowledge of employment law: It's essential since HR professionals frequently interact with these legal parameters.
  • Interpersonal skills:  These are important as human resources roles require a lot of interaction and effective communication.
  • Problem-solving abilities:  This is prioritized as HR professionals often have to resolve workplace issues.
  • Certifications: They demonstrate a commitment to the HR field and up-to-date knowledge of best practices.

Great vision without great people is irrelevant. HR’s role is to ensure we have great people.

Jim Collins

Typically, the experience section comes first in any resume format. We’ll help you tailor it for a HR resume below.

How to write your human resources resume experience

As an HR specialist, you likely know what works and what doesn't in experience sections. Still, we'll dive even deeper to give you more helpful resume tips . Your experience section is key to presenting your HR skills, successes, and the value you can add to a new position.

Here are some steps to help you develop an impactful experience section:

  • Focus on HR-related experience and list the company name, a brief overview, and the employment dates, followed by up to six bullet points per role.
  • Emphasize tangible results from your work in each role, using numbers or percentages to showcase your impact.
  • Utilize action verbs  to clearly and dynamically describe your responsibilities.
  • Highlight your most important and relevant achievements in each job's description.

Let's take a look at a specific human resources job description to better tailor your experience section .

Job title: HR Generalist

Job description:

We are seeking a motivated and proactive HR generalist to join our Human Resources team. The HR generalist will play a key role in supporting various HR functions and initiatives, partnering closely with managers and employees across the organization. This position offers an exciting opportunity for someone looking to develop their HR skills and contribute to the overall success of our company.

What you will do

  • Provide support to the SR. HR Business Partner in delivering a wide range of HR services, including but not limited to employee relations, performance management, talent acquisition, onboarding, and offboarding processes.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and programs in alignment with company goals and regulatory requirements.
  • Assist in immigration operations in terms of reviewing and verifying work permits, collecting & maintaining up-to-date records, communicating effectively with employees and managers regarding immigration issues and systematic records
  • Act as a resource for employees regarding HR-related inquiries, policies, and procedures, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address employee relations issues, conflicts, and performance management matters in a fair and consistent manner.
  • Assist in organizing and facilitating employee training and development programs, including orientation sessions, compliance training, and professional development initiatives.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records and HR databases, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and confidentiality standards.
  • Contribute to HR projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing employee engagement, retention, and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
  • 2-4 years of experience in HR or related roles preferred.
  • Strong understanding of HR principles, practices, and employment and immigration laws.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with employees at all levels of the organization.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Proactive problem-solver with a customer service mindset.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems.

Considering this job posting, let's review both a strong and a weak example of how to tailor your experience entries to it.

First, let's take a look at an experience section that could use some improvement.

  • • Managed employee records and ensured data accuracy.
  • • Conducted recruitment processes, including interviewing and onboarding.
  • • Developed and implemented HR policies and procedures.
  • • Utilized HR software tools for efficient employee management.

This experience section listed here isn't customized to fit the job posting above. Plus, it’s too vague and lacks the specific details that make a resume appealing to HR recruiters. It doesn't clearly convey the impact or scope of the candidate's responsibilities. Simply stating tasks like "managed employee records" or "conducted recruitment processes" doesn't demonstrate the candidate's effectiveness or the complexity of their role.

You know you can improve this. The second applicant can as well.

Now, let's check out an upgraded version of the same experience entry.

  • • Supported Sr. HR Business Partner, resolving 95% of employee issues and improving performance management.
  • • Assisted in recruitment processes, including interviewing, onboarding, and offboarding, achieving a 30% reduction in time-to-hire.
  • • Reviewed and verified work permits, maintaining up-to-date immigration records with a 100% compliance rate.
  • • Acted as a resource for HR inquiries, ensuring 12-hour response time.
  • • Collaborated to address employee issues, reducing conflict resolution time by 20%.
  • • Organized and facilitated employee training and development programs, including compliance training, resulting in a 90% employee satisfaction rate.

The updated experience section works well for HR roles because it includes:

  • Measurable achievements:  The bullet points include specific, quantifiable results  such as "resolving 95% of employee issues," "achieving a 30% reduction in time-to-hire," and "maintaining a 100% compliance rate with immigration records." This quantification is needed to prove the impact of the work done.
  • Action verbs: The use of dynamic verbs like "supported," "organized," "reviewed," and "collaborated" portrays each task as proactive and impactful.
  • Demonstrated soft skills:   The description implies critical skills for the job. For example, resolving employee issues and improving performance management highlight problem-solving and organizational skills. Additionally, ensuring a 12-hour response time for HR inquiries and achieving a 90% employee satisfaction rate in training programs demonstrate reliability and a strong commitment to employee development.

The updated entry clearly demonstrates what the candidate can do. It aligns the work history with job demands, developing a targeted resume  that passes ATS scans and captures the interest of hiring managers.

How to quantify impact on your resume

Concrete figures and percentages always make a strong impact. They can effectively depict the impact of your human resources initiatives on company success. This strategy highlights your measurable contributions, such as boosting employee engagement or optimizing performance management.

The following are some suggested ideas we’ve come up with to illustrate your accomplishments in prior HR positions.

  • Include the percentage of employee turnover reduction you've achieved: This metric showcases that you can maintain a stable workforce, essential to the business.
  • Underline the diversity percentages improved during your tenure: It demonstrates your ability to build a diverse and inclusive work environment.
  • Feature the rate of successful hiring processes you've implemented: This confirms that you can identify and attract top talent effectively.
  • Specify the number of employee training programs developed: It emphasizes your dedication to staff development and long-term investment in personnel.
  • Detail cost savings in HR operations you've contributed to: Reducing operation costs is a key concern that will grab a recruiter's attention.
  • Indicate the increase in employee satisfaction under your management: I t reflects your talent for creating a positive workplace culture.
  • List the amount of process improvements you've instigated:  This can demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach to bettering the company.
  • Mention numbers reflecting streamlined HR services:  It shows efficiency and your focus on optimizing HR operations for the benefit of the company.

How do I write a human resources resume with no experience

What you lack in experience, you can make up for with enthusiasm, skills, and a willingness to learn.

Richard Branson

While direct experience is important, there are numerous ways to make your application shine and demonstrate your potential to employers.

Here are some strategies to enhance your HR job application, even without prior work experience :

  • Emphasize your education: Highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework , and any projects completed during your studies. This shows your foundational knowledge and skills.
  • Showcase relevant projects  and competitions:  Mention any HR-related projects, case studies, or competitions you have been involved in. Provide details on your role, the tools you used, and the outcomes you achieved.
  • Earn certifications: Pursue certifications in HR areas such as SHRM-CP or PHR. Additionally, take online courses to build skills and prove your commitment to continuous learning.
  • Gain experience through internships :  Internships, whether paid or unpaid can provide valuable practical experience. Include any relevant work, even if it wasn’t a formal job.
  • Join HR organizations or clubs: Participate in HR clubs or professional societies like SHRM . This offers networking opportunities, resources, and experiences to enhance your resume.
  • Show personal or freelance HR projects: Mention any HR-related projects you have been involved in. Provide details on your role, the tools you used, and the outcomes you achieved, including any freelance work  you've done in HR to demonstrate your skills and initiative outside a traditional job setting.
  • List references from educators or mentors:   Include references  from teachers or mentors who can vouch for your skills and character, or mention that they are available upon request. This adds credibility to your resume.
  • Craft a clear objective statement : Begin your resume with a concise 3-4 sentence objective that reflects your passion for human resources and highlights any relevant experiences. This can prove your commitment and enthusiasm for the field.
  • Customize your resume and cover letter: Tailor your resume  and cover letter for each job application, focusing on the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.

The cover letter is the introduction and your resume is the details.

Lisa K. McDonald

Every HR professional begins somewhere. By underscoring your enthusiasm, skills, and willingness to learn, you can make a compelling case for yourself and secure that first HR job. Stay motivated and keep pushing forward—your opportunity awaits!

Now that we've reviewed your professional background, let’s focus on highlighting the hard and soft skills that make you a well-rounded and capable HR candidate.

How to list your hard and soft skills on your resume

There is no doubt that including skills on your resume  is crucial, as it emphasizes your qualifications and helps recruiters determine your fit for the HR role. It helps align your profile with the job description , improves your resume's visibility in Applicant Tracking Systems, and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Let’s start with hard skills .

Hard skills

Listing hard skills on HR resumes is vital as they demonstrate your technical knowledge and proficiency in specific tools and technologies.

Create a specific resume skills section labeled "Hard skills,” and place it near the top or below the work experience section. Be precise and relevant by naming specific tools, software, and methodologies you’re skilled in.

Adapt these skills to the job you’re applying for. If you possess numerous hard skills, consider categorizing them into different sections for better organization.

Here are 20 essential human resources skills  that would significantly benefit your application.

Best hard skills for your human resources resume

  • Employee relations
  • HRIS (Human Resource Information Software)
  • Talent management
  • Conflict resolution
  • ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)
  • Compensation and benefits planning
  • Workforce planning
  • Performance management
  • Legal compliance
  • Onboarding processes
  • Payroll management
  • Recruiting software
  • HR policies and procedures
  • Learning management systems
  • HR program/Project management
  • Diversity and inclusion initiatives
  • Data analysis
  • Knowledge of employment laws
  • Organizational development strategies

Let's now move to soft skills .

Soft skills

Soft skills are essential for your human resources resume as they illustrate your ability to work well with others and adapt to different situations. Rather than placing these skills in a separate section, weave them throughout your resume.

In your summary or objective, emphasize key soft skills and provide specific examples of how you've applied them in real-life situations, such as enhancing employee relations or addressing workplace disputes.

Additionally, underline relevant soft skills in your work experience and education sections, focusing on your teamwork and leadership in an HR setting. Ensure these skills match the keywords from the job ad .

Here are some commonly valued soft skills in human resources that our research has found.

Best soft skills for your human resources resume

  • Communication
  • Decision making
  • Negotiation
  • Leadership  
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Organization
  • Adaptability
  • Time management
  • Active listening  
  • Relationship building
  • Open mindedness
  • Multitasking
  • Persuasiveness
  • Stress management

Now, we'll focus on crafting education sections that show your academic achievements.

How to list your education and certifications on your resume

To enter the occupation, human resources specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in HR, business, or a related field. Relevant degrees include human resources management, business administration, psychology, and labor relations.

A solid education in the field is crucial if you aim to climb the career ladder and aspire to become a manager someday. Having a strong educational background will undoubtedly be a significant advantage when crafting your HRM resume.

Your education section should emphasize coursework and training in areas critical to HR, such as employment law, organizational behavior, and compensation and benefits.

Here’s how to present the education section  on your talent acquisition specialist resume:

  • Degree title:  List the degree you earned related to human resources or a relevant field.
  • Institution name: State the name of the educational institution you attended.
  • Graduation year:  Mention the year you graduated or expect to graduate .
  • Major:  Highlight your field of study, such as human resources management or business administration, pertinent to HR roles.
  • Relevant certifications: Provide details of your HR certifications, such as SHRM-CP or PHR.
  • Additional training: Include any extra courses or workshops you’ve completed that boost your HR skills, like diversity training or advanced HR management.
  • GPA: Consider listing your GPA  if it exceeds 3.5 to emphasize your strong academic performance.

Here's the best way to outline your education on a resume for a human resources position.

  • • Focused on advanced HR strategies and organizational development.
  • • Conducted a research project on the impact of remote work on employee engagement and productivity.
  • • Specialized in business management and organizational behavior.
  • • Completed a capstone project focused on developing effective employee onboarding processes and improving workplace engagement.

In addition to a degree, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications.

Showcasing your HR certifications on your resume  emphasizes your credentials and commitment to continuous learning. Make sure to:

  • List each certification you’ve earned.
  • Identify the organization that granted each certification.
  • Indicate the expiration date if relevant.

Consider these prestigious HR certifications.

Best certifications for your human resources resume

  • SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
  • Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
  • SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
  • Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
  • Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)

Now that this is clear, let's move on to customizing powerful resume summaries and objective statements that will grab the attention of potential employers.

MBA on your HR resume

If you have an MBA in HR, make sure it's easy for recruiters to see it on your resume. This degree shows you're ready to take on leadership roles and handle strategic challenges. It’s a great way to demonstrate you’re ready to make a significant impact at a high level.

When featuring your MBA in human resources on your resume, there are several strategic locations to consider to ensure it stands out to potential employers:

  • Education section:  This is the most common place to underline your MBA. List your degree, the institution, and your graduation year. For an MBA, it's also beneficial to include any relevant concentrations or specializations.
  • Professional summary: Incorporate your MBA into your professional summary at the top of your resume to immediately communicate your qualification. This can be particularly effective if the job listing specifically requires or prefers a candidate with an MBA.
  • Certifications: If you have additional space, or if your MBA is especially relevant to the job you are applying for, you can feature it in a dedicated section that lists certifications.

You’ve got a few good places to feature your MBA. Choose the one that best aligns with your overall resume layout and the specifics of the job you are applying for.

How to write your human resources resume summary or objective

When seeking an HR position, an engaging summary or objective can make your resume stand out. Both are crucial for quickly grabbing the recruiter's attention and demonstrating that you're a suitable candidate.

Here's the distinction:

  • Summary: Offer a brief overview of your top professional accomplishments and relevant skills in 3 to 5 sentences. This is ideal if you have significant experience in HR.
  • Objective statement :  Keep it concise, around 3 sentences, focusing on your career aspirations and why you're interested in this position. This is beneficial if you're new to HR, transitioning careers, or re-entering the workforce.

Check out this great resume summary  sample based on the earlier HR job ad. This one underscores the best way to draft your professional summary.

A resume summary or objective is best crafted without a first-person narrative  to keep it professional.

Next up, let's check out the case of an objective statement.

Follow these recommendations for developing a powerful resume summary or objective for an HR specialist job:

  • Customize it: Tailor your summary or objective to the specific HR position and the company’s culture you’re targeting. Show how your skills meet their needs. For instance, "Accomplished HR Manager with 8 years of experience, adept at enhancing employee satisfaction and streamlining HR operations."
  • Use specific metrics: Enhance your credibility by quantifying your achievements. For example, "Assisted in recruitment processes, achieving a 30% reduction in time-to-hire" or "Organized and facilitated training programs, resulting in a 90% employee satisfaction rate."
  • Highlight technical skills:  Emphasize critical HR skills, such as proficiency in HRIS systems like PeopleSoft and SAP SuccessFactors, as well as strong communication skills for effective employee relations and conflict management.

Investing time in crafting a precise and tailored summary or objective can make your resume significantly more impactful.

Additional sections for a human resources resume

As a person with experience in the field, you've probably noticed that candidates who share more about themselves on their resumes fit in better with the company. To make your HR resume more engaging, consider adding one or two of these extra sections to give recruiters a full picture of your skills and personality:

  • Passions: Include your hobbies and activities , such as being part of a reading club or participating in writing classes, to present a well-rounded character.
  • Language proficiency: List any languages you speak  fluently to showcase your capability to work with diverse groups.
  • Awards :  Feature any recognitions you've earned in the HR sector, such as employee of the month, outstanding HR practices awards, or notable project contributions.

How to put a projects section on a human resources resume

This section highlights key HR projects, detailing their objectives, the strategies used, your role, and the outcomes achieved. It offers a clear view of each project's impact and success.

Here's an example:

  • • Developed and implemented an employee engagement program that increased participation by 40% and improved overall job satisfaction by 25%.
  • • Conducted comprehensive diversity and inclusion training, reaching over 200 employees and improving workplace inclusivity by 30%.

Including a projects section  in your HR resume is a strategic choice because it highlights your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities through real-world applications.

This section offers solid examples to bring up in interviews, demonstrating how you manage complex issues and work collaboratively. It’s an effective way to differentiate your resume and showcase your achievements in detail, which can benefit you during interviews—don’t overlook the importance of this section.

Key takeaways

Now that you've learned the basics, let's summarize the essential aspects of your HR resume:

  • Maintain a tidy and professional layout using an appropriate resume format.
  • Use specific metrics and numbers to enhance your credibility and showcase your impact in previous HR roles.
  • Customize your resume for each human resources position, focusing on the skills and experiences most relevant to the job.
  • Present your education, relevant coursework, and HR certifications to demonstrate your qualifications.
  • Craft compelling resume summaries and objective statements to capture recruiters' attention.
  • Include a projects section to highlight hands-on experience and real-world problem-solving abilities.

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Here’s How to Write Your Own Resume as an HR Professional (Plus an Example!)

person sitting at desk in home office, typing on laptop

Human resources (HR) is a broad field, encompassing HR generalists as well as many sub-areas including recruiting (also known as talent acquisition), benefits administration, talent management, learning and development, and more. If you’re an HR professional, especially if you work in recruiting, you’ve probably reviewed hundreds or even thousands of resumes. But when it comes to creating a solid resume of your own, it can be just as hard as it would be for a hairdresser to cut their own hair. (And if you’re still looking for open positions to apply to, you can search for HR jobs right here on The Muse .)

Here are some tips to help you write an outstanding resume as an HR professional.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job: Keywords

As you may know if you already work in HR, tailoring your resume to the particular job you’re applying for can make it easier for the reader to see why you’re the right hire. So scrutinize each job description to find out what achievements, skills, and qualifications are most important—and tweak your resume accordingly.

You can highlight your most relevant achievements for each job by moving the bullet points that describe those achievements further up within each experience entry, highlighting key skills in a summary section, and repeating key terms in different sections of your resume (for instance, mentioning names of important software in a bullet point describing your work achievements and repeating them in your “Skills” section).

If you’re an experienced HR pro, you’re likely aware that many companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to keep track of resumes from job applicants. These systems allow a recruiter to quickly search resumes for keywords, which typically include acronyms, proper nouns, or phrases from the job description. Therefore, it’s always important to look for these key terms in every job posting and work them naturally into your resume.

You should always default to the keywords you find in a given job posting (and use the same phrasing and language that the company does). But here are some keywords for different types of jobs within HR to get you started; some of the most common terms are listed first, followed by acronyms referring to laws or regulations, key software, and certifications toward the end of each list.

HR Generalist Keywords

  • Recruiting, interviewing, hiring, job descriptions
  • Orientation
  • Personnel files
  • Policies, procedures
  • Open enrollment
  • Performance reviews
  • Confidentiality
  • Equal employment
  • Employee safety
  • Organizational charts
  • Exit interviews
  • Software: Microsoft Excel, PeopleSoft, human resource information systems (HRIS)
  • Certifications: PHR (Professional in Human Resources), SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources), SHRM-CP ( Society for Human Resources Management Certified Professional), SHRM–SCP (Society for Human Resources Management Senior Certified Professional)

Recruiter Keywords

  • Candidates, pipeline, candidate experience
  • Sourcing (including tools such as LinkedIn, social media, Indeed.com)
  • Interviewing, selection, screening
  • Hiring managers
  • Strategic workforce planning
  • Job descriptions
  • End-to-end hiring process, full-cycle recruiting
  • Recruitment metrics (such as time-to-hire or similar)
  • Reference checks
  • Background checks
  • Offer letters
  • New hire packets
  • Wage/salary analysis
  • College and university relations
  • Closing candidates
  • Software: ATS, HRIS, Oracle

Benefits and Compensation Keywords

  • Leave, paid time off (PTO), vacation days, sick days, personal days, paid holidays
  • Benefits : total reward, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), workers compensation, disability, tuition reimbursement
  • Voluntary deferred compensation/retirement plans, pension plans, 401(k)
  • Eligibility
  • Contract negotiations
  • Vendor negotiations
  • Procurement
  • Benchmarking
  • Benefit plan administration
  • Audits, reconciling, reports
  • Disability accommodations
  • Leave of absence (LOA)
  • Government departments:Department of Labor (DOL), CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
  • Government programs and regulations: Medicare, Medicaid, COBRA, Family and Medical Leave Act ( FMLA ), American with Disabilities Act (ADA), Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), Pregnancy Discrimination Act, HIPAA, Affordable Care Act (ACA), Dependent Eligibility Verification Audit (DEVA)
  • Software: ADP, timekeeping systems, Workday Human Capital Management (HCM), HRIS

Employee and Labor Relations Keywords

  • Grievances, disputes, investigations
  • Disciplinary and termination meetings
  • Collective bargaining agreement (CBA)
  • Conflict resolution/management
  • Arbitration
  • Legal and regulatory compliance; Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), ADA, FMLA
  • Wage and hour laws
  • Climate surveys

Training and Development/Organizational Development Keywords

  • Development and implementation
  • Subject matter expert (SME)
  • Content, curriculum, e-learning
  • Performance improvement/performance management
  • Instructional design
  • ADDIE model (analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation)
  • Adult learning theory
  • Facilitation guides, course material, training aids, job aids
  • Competencies
  • Organizational development
  • Cultural change
  • Software: Microsoft PowerPoint, Learning Management Systems (LMS), knowledge management systems, Oracle, Articulate Suite (Storyline, Rise, Review), Camtasia, SharePoint, Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Certifications: Associate Professional in Talent Development Credential (APTD), Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Make Your Resume Shine: Achievements

The bullet points describing your past experiences have the most potential to show prospective employers who you are as a professional. Framing your bullet points as achievements is essential for a strong resume. Include metrics or examples that illustrate how you contributed to your organization, prevented risk, improved efficiency, or took initiative to solve a problem. Whenever possible, you should quantify your accomplishments, or measure them using numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts. 

In HR it can be hard to quantify your success, but as you think about your achievements look for opportunities to attach metrics to what you’ve done. One way to think about your achievements could be: What did you do that prevented a problem? Another is: What would go wrong if you did a bad job? How can you measure that what you did was better than what was done before or what was done on average?

Once you’ve answered those questions, put it all together. A common formula for a strong bullet point is to start with a strong action verb , then add a description of your work or process, and then end with the outcome or achievement, adding numbers whenever possible so readers can see the scale of your accomplishments.

Here are some ways to frame HR-related achievements as bullet points in the experience section of your resume:

HR Generalist Achievements

  • Ensured compliance with a broad range of regulations, including ADA, FMLA, and EEOC, reducing risk and liability for an organization with 15,000 staff in three countries.

Recruiter Achievements

  • Reduced time-to-hire by 15% through consistent follow-up with hiring managers in 14 offices, expanded utilization of ATS, and timely outreach to candidates.
  • Improved candidate experience, increasing percent satisfied from 50% to 66% through courteous, efficient, and thoughtful communication with candidate pool, resulting in 10% increase in referrals of high-quality applicants by current staff.

Benefits and Compensation Achievements

  • Saved 15% of company’s benefits costs in the first year by conducting scrupulous benchmarking research and highly effective contract negotiations with five vendors.
  • Accurately audited time and leave tracking for an organization with 500+ staff, ensuring compliance with company policies and FMLA regulations.

Employee and Labor Relations Achievements

  • Effectively mediated highly complex employee conflicts, resulting in improved performance and a positive organizational culture as demonstrated through a 25% increase in positive responses to organization-wide climate surveys.
  • Negotiated contracts with three different unions, avoiding a highly challenging potential labor dispute and coming to a mutually beneficial contract agreement.

Training and Development/Organizational Development A chievements

  • Designed and implemented new leadership curriculum, training 50% of key organizational leaders in 6 weeks and resulting in improved morale and staff retention in units led by managers who participated in training.

Look the Part: Resume Layout and Design

Many resume layout and design tips apply just as much for HR resumes as for candidate resumes in any field. So you’re likely familiar with some or all of the below, but if you’d like a refresher or you’re just entering the workforce, these tips can ensure your resume looks the part.

HR Resume Format and Sections

In addition to writing powerful achievement-focused bullet points and using the right keywords, you might wonder about where to place content within your resume and what sections to include.

Most job applicants should use a reverse chronological resume, which lists your work experiences, academic degrees, and other qualifications in order from most recent to furthest back in time. This type of resume is the most common version used in most industries (including HR) and is helpful for documenting your career growth and progression. If you’re changing careers or returning to paid employment after a career break, you may want to consider a combination , or hybrid, resume format (which helps emphasize your skills in addition to your work experience and dates of employment).

Whether you choose a chronological or hybrid resume, the sections typically included in an HR resume are:

  • Header and contact information : your name and contact information, which includes crucial information such as your phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile URL
  • Experience : including work, internship, and sometimes high-level volunteer experience, can be broken up into different sections such as “Relevant Experience” and “Other Experience”
  • Education : typically including college and advanced degrees
  • Skills : including computer software , technical skills , and languages you speak

There are also optional sections that may show you’re the right candidate for a given job such as:

  • Summary : a quick, high-level, easy-to-scan overview of your top achievements and keywords, generally used if you have extensive work experience or are a career changer
  • Certifications : including PHR, SPHR, or SHRM certification among others (if you’ve earned them, you can also add these letters after your name in the header for stronger emphasis)
  • Ongoing training : including short, on-the-job trainings, online courses that are not part of a degree program, or other professional development that doesn’t fit under education

Resume Design and Formatting

A resume should be easy to read, which means the document itself needs to be well formatted and limited to one or two pages . Many jobs in HR require attention to detail, so it’s especially important for an HR resume to use consistent formatting and design. For instance, be sure that:

  • Your bullet points are consistent in size, style, and indentation
  • Your fonts and formatting are consistent—if job titles are going to be in bold and italics, make sure that all of your job titles are in bold and italics
  • Your design is clean and readable—font size should be no smaller than 10 and keep at least a small amount of white space between sections and entries
  • Your name and contact info are centered correctly on the page, if you choose to center them

It’s also important that your resume is easily scannable by an ATS, which can have trouble with columns, overly fancy designs, text boxes, or graphics. So keep it simple and clean and only use formatting elements like bold, underline, italics, and color to emphasize different parts of the text.

Check and Double-Check Your Resume

Once you’ve designed an easy-to-read, keyword-rich, achievement-focused resume, it’s time to edit and proofread the document. Don’t rely on a spellchecker alone. Read the document from the top to the bottom, then read it backward from bottom to top. Ask a friend to read it; bring it to a career coach; show it to people in your network and ask for their unvarnished feedback.

Make sure to quadruple check items which are the most crucial—your phone number and email address—and be sure you check your voicemail and email (and spam folder) constantly when you are actively job seeking.

Put It All Together: Resume Example

Below is an example of an HR generalist resume. This resume is designed for a mid-career HR generalist or HR business partner and highlights key skills relevant to those kinds of roles.

Download example human resources resume

With the right achievement-focused bullet points, keywords, design, and structure, your HR resume can be a powerful tool in landing you more job interviews. As you progress in your HR career, feel free to come back to this list of tips as a benchmark to help keep your resume fresh and tailored to your target positions. And best of luck advancing in your HR career!

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Winning Human Resources Resume Examples for 2024

Use an HR resume example to build a winning professional profile

RC Team

Ready to make your HR resume as impactful as your work? Get ready to transform your resume into a compelling narrative that highlights your professional journey and readiness for new HR challenges.

We’ll delve into optimizing your resume’s presentation, ensuring it lists your skills and accomplishments in a manner that resonates with HR recruiters : 

  • Combination resume format : Discover the benefits of blending chronological and functional formats for HR professionals.
  • Entry-Level resume insights : Tips on emphasizing educational achievements, internships, and relevant soft skills.
  • Advanced HR resume strategies : How to showcase strategic skills and key achievements for senior roles.
  • Effective HR keywords : The importance of strategic action verbs and keywords to enhance your resume’s impact.

Need some help writing your HR resume? Try our AI resume builder and get tailored suggestions that’ll make you stand out from the crowd.

Unleash Your HR Potential with the Combination Resume Format

When writing a resume as a Human Resources professional, selecting the optimal format is essential. The combination resume format is particularly advantageous for HR experts, effectively blending the chronological and functional formats. 

This approach allows you to first present your key HR skills, such as employee relations and compliance, and then detail your work history in chronological order. This format also meets the demands of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) , ensuring a comprehensive presentation of your professional trajectory. 

Opting for a combination resume can thus position you effectively for leadership roles in HR, portraying a well-rounded and dynamic professional profile.

Entry-Level Human Resources Resume Example 

With a faster-than-average job outlook for HR specialists , it’s no wonder so many fresh graduates are trying to get an interview to fill a role in this exciting career path.

If you’re one of them, our entry-level human resources resume sample emphasizes educational achievements, internship experiences, and relevant soft skills that will make you stand out in a sea of applicants.

Jane Doe [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] [LinkedIn Profile]

Resume Summary Recent university graduate with a Bachelor’s in Human Resource Management, equipped with hands-on internship experience at a leading tech firm. Enhanced employee onboarding processes using HR software tools like BambooHR, reducing new hire orientation time by 30%. Proven ability to manage recruitment events and improve candidate screening efficiency.

Professional Skills and Achievements

  • HRIS software proficiency : Implemented a candidate tracking system with Zoho Recruit at Tech Innovations, Inc., enhancing screening efficiency by 25%.
  • Event management and recruitment : Organized four large-scale recruitment events, facilitating interactions for over 300 candidates, significantly improving engagement and hiring outcomes.
  • Employee engagement and retention : Developed engagement survey analysis and follow-up actions at Tech Innovations, Inc., contributing to a 15% reduction in employee turnover.
  • Volunteer management : Overhauled volunteer onboarding for a local non-profit, integrating feedback mechanisms that improved volunteer retention by 20%.

Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management University of Your Choice, City, State May 2023

  • Graduated with Honors
  • Relevant Coursework: Organizational Psychology, Employment Law, Talent Acquisition Strategies

Professional Experience

HR Intern Tech Innovations, Inc., City, State June 2022 – August 2023

  • Developed and implemented a streamlined candidate tracking system using Zoho Recruit, boosting screening efficiency by 25%.
  • Assisted in reducing employee turnover by 15% through a targeted engagement survey analysis and follow-up action planning.
  • Organized 4 large-scale recruitment events, facilitating the interaction of over 300 job candidates with company representatives.

Volunteer HR Assistant Local Non-Profit, City, State September 2021 – December 2021

  • Revamped volunteer onboarding documentation, incorporating feedback mechanisms using Google Forms, enhancing volunteer retention by 20%.
  • Coordinated training sessions for 50+ volunteers, utilizing project management tools like Trello to ensure timely and effective learning outcomes.

Certifications

  • Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR) – Expected December 2024

Professional Affiliations

  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Member since 2023

You’re in a hurry and need help? Try our AI-powered resume builder and be done in flash!

Experienced Human Resources Resume Example

In this section, you will find an experienced HR resume example that emphasizes key achievements and is designed to enhance an experienced professional profile .

Jordan Smith [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] [LinkedIn Profile]

Resume Summary

Accomplished Human Resources professional with over 7 years of experience specializing in talent management and organizational development. Successfully enhanced workforce productivity by 30% through targeted leadership training initiatives. Expert in deploying HR technologies such as SAP SuccessFactors to streamline HR processes.

Skills and Key Achievements

  • Talent management and recruitment : Increased new hire retention by 20% by implementing advanced recruitment strategies and utilizing ATS software like Lever.
  • Leadership training and development : Developed and executed a leadership program that resulted in a 40% increase in leadership efficiency, using feedback tools such as 360-degree reviews.
  • HR systems integration : Led the adoption of SAP SuccessFactors, reducing payroll processing time by 25% and improving data accuracy.
  • Employee relations : Managed a diverse team of HR professionals, fostering an inclusive environment that decreased HR-related complaints by 15%.

HR Director

TechGlobal Solutions, City, State

June 2022 – Present

  • Enhanced employee engagement through strategic HR initiatives, leading to a 10% decrease in annual turnover.
  • Designed and launched a company-wide performance management system that boosted employee productivity by integrating real-time feedback mechanisms.

Senior HR Manager

Innovative Designs Corp., City, State

March 2020 – May 2022

  • Directed the restructuring of the talent acquisition process which shortened the hiring cycle from 40 to 25 days.
  • Initiated and led a cultural transformation project that improved employee satisfaction scores by 20%.

Master of Business Administration, Human Resources Management

City University, City, State

Graduation: May 2024

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

State University, City, State

Graduation: May 2018

  • Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
  • Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
  • Association for Talent Development (ATD)

Power Words for HR Champions: Action Verbs & Keywords

For Human Resources professionals, your resume must demonstrate your expertise in managing and enhancing workforce functions . 

Action verbs and keywords are crucial tools for this, serving as essential elements that strengthen your resume’s impact and visibility to recruiters.

Below is a table to guide you in selecting the right terms to describe your skills and experiences effectively:

Talent Acquisition & Management

Recruited Onboarded Screened Interviewed Hired Sourced Assessed Engaged Negotiated Retained

Employee Relations & Development

Coached Mediated Trained Developed Resolved Enhanced Facilitated Advised Supported Motivated

Strategic HR & Compliance

Strategized Implemented Audited Analyzed Aligned Ensured Compliance Reviewed Governed Managed Risk Optimized Processes

Incorporating these targeted action verbs and terms into your resume will help articulate your active role in HR processes, positioning you effectively in the eyes of potential employers.

How to Start Strong with a Powerful Resume Summary

The resume summary is a crucial element of your job application, serving as a brief yet impactful introduction that highlights your background, key skills, and career goals. 

They provide a concise overview of your experience and capabilities, showcasing your value to potential employers right from the start.

Why Summaries Over Objectives?

Modern hiring practices favor resume summaries because they align better with employers’ needs by immediately demonstrating a candidate’s qualifications and achievements.

Summaries are strategic, and tailored to highlight specific skills and results that meet the job requirements, making them more effective for catching a recruiter’s attention.

Seasoned HR professional with over 10 years of experience in talent acquisition and employee relations. Skilled in leveraging HR software to enhance workforce management and increase operational efficiency. Proven track record of reducing employee turnover by 20% and fostering a positive work environment. Seeking to apply strategic HR management skills to drive further success at XYZ Corp.

Why this is a good example:

This summary is effective because it clearly outlines the candidate’s extensive experience, specific skills, and measurable achievements . 

It also directly addresses how these attributes can benefit the prospective employer, aligning with what hiring managers are looking for.

Human resources worker looking for a challenging role where I can develop my skills further and start to make a difference.

Why this is a bad example :

This summary is less effective as it focuses on what the candidate hopes to gain rather than what they can offer. It lacks specifics about experience or skills and fails to mention any quantifiable achievements or how they can contribute to the employer’s goals.

Focus on quantifiable achievements and specific skills that match the job description. This approach positions you as the ideal candidate from the outset.

Key Human Resources Resume Skills You Need to Excel

While soft skills are best demonstrated through descriptions of your achievements within the resume summary and experience sections, hard skills should be explicitly listed in the skills section .

This distinction helps clarify your capabilities in both interpersonal and technical areas, making it easier for hiring managers to assess your qualifications at a glance.

Why Distinguish Between Soft and Hard Skills?

Soft skills are inherently qualitative and are best illustrated through context , such as how you’ve used communication or leadership in achieving business outcomes. 

In contrast, hard skills are quantifiable , like proficiency in HR software or knowledge of employment law, and are straightforwardly listed to show your technical competencies.

Below is a table that outlines specific and relevant soft and hard skills for HR professionals:

Soft Skills (Contextual)

  • Empathetic Communication
  • Strategic Decision-Making
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Influential Leadership
  • Change Management
  • Cultural Sensitivity
  • Adaptability in Dynamic Environments
  • Team Collaboration and Facilitation
  • Proactive Problem Solving
  • Effective Negotiation

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • HRIS Proficiency (e.g., Workday)
  • Employment Law Knowledge
  • Payroll Management
  • Talent Acquisition Strategies
  • Employee Engagement Analytics
  • Performance Management Systems
  • Recruitment Marketing
  • Compliance Regulation Familiarity
  • Benefits Administration
  • Training & Development Techniques

When listing these skills , be sure to consider the specific requirements and preferences noted in the job description you are applying for.

A structured approach like this not only helps in highlighting your suitability for the role but also emphasizes a well-rounded understanding of both the human and technical demands of HR management.

Your Experience Section: A Record of HR Excellence

In an HR resume, the Experience section is pivotal for featuring your professional track record and achievements. This section should not only list your past roles but also emphasize your accomplishments and the impact you have made in those positions.

Using action verbs and quantifying results are essential strategies for painting a vivid picture of your capabilities and successes.

Emphasizing Achievements and Impact

Each job listing in your experience section should focus on your achievements , using strong action verbs to begin each bullet point. 

This approach shifts the focus from mundane job duties to your active contributions and results, which are more compelling to hiring managers.

How to quantify achievements and impact

Quantifying achievements means attaching numbers to your accomplishments , which provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and impact. 

In HR, this could be demonstrated through metrics such as :

  • Reduction in employee turnover rates by a specific percentage.
  • Increase in employee satisfaction scores following new initiatives.
  • Number of new hires successfully onboarded within a specific time frame.
  • Cost reductions achieved through improved HR strategies or negotiations.

Examples of HR Measurable Outcomes to Include

Below are some examples of how you might present quantifiable achievements in your experience section.

Improved Employee Retention

Reduced annual employee turnover by 15% through targeted retention strategies and enhanced employee engagement programs.

Efficient Recruitment Processes

Cut hiring cycle time by 30% by implementing streamlined recruitment processes, impacting over 200 hires annually.

Cost Reduction

Negotiated benefits with providers, achieving a 20% reduction in employee health insurance costs, saving the company $200K annually.

Training and Development

Led a leadership development program that increased departmental productivity by 25% and was subsequently rolled out company-wide.

Using these methods ensures your experience section does more than recount your job history—it presents your effectiveness and strategic value as an HR professional.

Keep the focus on outcomes and improvements that are relevant to the potential employer, aligning your past successes with the needs outlined in the job description you are applying for. This demonstrates your understanding of the role and the industry.

HR Resume Pitfalls: Avoid These Common Blunders

Missteps in your HR resume can limit your job prospects. Here are several common errors and misconceptions about HR resumes, along with expert tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

Lack of specific HR metrics

HR professionals often fail to include specific metrics or outcomes that quantify their impact in previous roles. This omission can make it hard for hiring managers to gauge the effectiveness of your HR skills.

💡Expert Tip # 1

Always quantify your accomplishments, such as “Reduced employee turnover by 18% through a revamped company culture initiative.”

Overemphasis on day-to-day tasks

Many HR resumes focus too much on daily tasks rather than strategic contributions. This can portray you as a transactional rather than a strategic HR professional.

💡Expert Tip # 2

Highlight strategic initiatives you’ve led or contributed to, like developing and implementing HR policies that align with organizational goals.

Underrepresenting compliance and legal knowledge

Compliance is a crucial aspect of HR that is often underrepresented on resumes.

💡Expert Tip # 3

Clearly detail your experience with compliance, such as “Managed ADA, EEO, and FMLA compliance processes, reducing non-compliance risks by 40%.”

Failing to mention technology proficiency

As HR technology evolves, some professionals neglect to update their resumes with the systems and software they are proficient in.

💡Expert Tip # 4

List relevant HR technologies you’re proficient in, like HRIS, ATS, or payroll systems, which are critical for modern HR operations.

HR professionals should possess a balanced mix of hard and soft skills to effectively manage human resources within an organization. Key hard skills include proficiency in HR Information Systems , knowledge of employment law , and familiarity with payroll systems . Essential soft skills include strong communication abilities , conflict resolution , empathy , and strategic thinking . These skills help HR professionals navigate employee relations, develop talent, and align HR strategies with business goals, ensuring a productive and harmonious workplace.

A good resume summary for an HR professional should highlight key experiences, core skills, and notable achievements . It could read something like: “Experienced HR Manager with over 10 years of expertise in talent management and employee relations. Proven track record of improving employee retention rates by 25% through strategic development initiatives and hands-on leadership. Skilled in navigating complex employment laws and leveraging HR technologies to enhance workplace efficiency. Seeking to apply deep HR knowledge and strategic approach to further the goals of [Company Name].”

A good headline for an HR resume effectively captures your professional identity and level of expertise , tailored to the role you are targeting. It might read, “Senior HR Professional with Extensive Expertise in Talent Acquisition and Employee Relations” or “Dynamic HR Specialist Focused on Strategic Workforce Development and Engagement.” Such headlines concisely signal your main strengths and areas of specialization , immediately informing potential employers about your suitability for the position and setting the tone for the rest of your resume.

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Human Resources resume examples & templates

Human Resources resume examples & templates

A human resources professional resume designed to speed your job hunt must be top-notch: After all, you’re the one who usually judges candidates. But looking for great resumes and creating one of your own are two different tasks. 

That’s where Resume.io comes in. To get your resume into the hands of one of your future colleagues, take advantage of our writing guides and resume examples for 300+ professions.

This guide, along with the corresponding HR resume examples, will cover the following topics:

What do human resources professionals do?

  • How to write a human resources resume (tips and tricks)
  • The best format for a human resources resume
  • Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
  • Professional resume layout and design hints

The human resources department may also be known as the people department. It handles the people factors that make a business run. Those tasks include:

  • Recruiting, interviewing and hiring
  • Benefits enrollment
  • Compensation
  • Employee relations
  • Interpret and explain policy, procedures, law, standards and regulations
  • Employee review and remediation

In essence, human resources people are responsible for making sure that employees understand their job responsibilities, their benefits and maintaining the company structure and culture.

Entry level Mid-level Upper level
HR assistant Manager HR manager
HR trainee Sourcer Specialist manager
HR associate Administrator Talent acquisition manager
Staff coordinator Trainer Business partner
Recruiter Generalist Brand manager
Analyst Information specialist Chief diversity officer
    VP of HR

Get inspired and view other resume examples from the Human Resources field:

  • Human Resource Generalist resume sample
  • HR Director resume sample
  • Chief Happiness Officer (CHO) resume sample
  • Entry Level HR resume sample
  • Recruiter resume sample
  • Human Resources Assistant resume sample
  • Human Resources Manager resume sample

Human resources job market and outlook

Human resources departments are finding themselves with expanded scope as 73% of employees look toward their companies to provide them with support in preparing for the work futures, the Harvard Business Review reported.

A study by the Cognizant Center for Future of Work and Future Workplace found that HR’s focus will likely shift to employee wellness as a means to retain workers and jobs such as Director of Wellbeing and HR Data Detective. These reimagined roles may shift the skills HR departments are looking for when they seek new employees.

Job growth within human resources is expected to be about 10% from 2020-2030 for HR specialists and 9% for HR managers , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How much do human resources professionals make? Actual salaries depend on the geographical area, education level, experience and company size. 

Job title Median salary
Recruiting coordinator $60,158
HR assistant $40,853
HR coordinator $49,579
HR specialist $52,760
HR generalist $64,790
HR manager $81,762

How to write a resume for HR professionals

You are someone who looks at resumes, so you have a good idea of what makes your life easier. Stick to the following sections when you organize your information:  

  • The resume header
  • The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
  • The employment history section
  • The resume skills section
  • The education section  

You know the best resumes are ones that use a tone and style that meshes with the company’s image, so apply that knowledge to your own job hunt. Do your research to ensure that you understand the company’s philosophy for hiring and retaining workers as well as its benefits structure.

If you can, put a name to the hiring manager and try to find a common bond. As you know, a resume that sparks interest and gives a personal touch may make all the difference.

A great human resources resume uses consistent messaging, tone and style. Here’s a gentle reminder that you should apply the attributes you look for when you develop your own HR resume. 

Remember to:

  • Write as though you are addressing the people in the department you wish to work for.
  • Pay attention to creating a polished visual first impression with a resume template that has a creative edge without distracting from your message.
  • Optimize by including important keywords and phrases to target the ATS algorithms.

Writing a human resources resume with no experience

Recruiters know that candidates for entry level jobs most likely have not worked in human resources before. If you have had any job, you have skills. Even if you have not worked, you may have volunteered or participated in clubs or extracurricular activities that have transferable job skills. 

Play up your soft skills, such as time management, organization and collaboration. You can learn the employee manual and how to scan resumes, but employers want evidence of your communication skills and other abilities that make you a valuable worker.

If you are new to HR, you may not know the ins and outs of Applicant Tracking Systems. At some point in your career, you may come to appreciate that they ease the burden on you by scanning and sorting resumes, but they may filter out your document if it is not formatted correctly.

Your best bet for passing through the ATS is an analysis of each job listing. Highlight keywords and phrases and insert them into appropriate spots in your resume. Make sure your text still sounds natural and that you don’t overdo it by repeating phrases too often.

Choosing the best resume format for a human resources professional 

Recruiters such as yourself prefer resumes in the reverse chronological order format, so stick with the tried-and-true. This structure centers on an employment history section where you’ll list your relevant experience starting with your most recent role (and going back up until about 10 years.)

Although other formats exist, you should use them only in special circumstances. Recent graduates or those looking for a career shift can check out the resume formats we suggest as chronological alternatives or hybrids. 

Resume summary example: The onboarding

Use these 3-4 lines to make a personal pitch for your employment. You are up against other HR specialists and they all know what they like in a summary. Go with your gut here as you show off your biggest HR achievement and explain what you will add to the people department of your target company.

This is a tough section to write, even for an HR professional. Don’t be afraid to use strong, positive words to describe yourself and your career.

You can find a resume example for your summary section below.

Energetic human resources generalist with 6+ years of experience working within HR clinical teams, effectively managing multiple recruitment and retention priorities. Committed to channeling my passion for human resources to ensure department operations run smoothly and deliver maximum value to the organization. 

Employment history sample: Demonstrate the value you add

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you create the employment history section of your human resources resume:

What is your next career move? To get there, you should be tailoring the bullet items in your employment history section to show that you already have the experience to get the job done.

How will you add value to the department? You don’t want to simply do the job adequately, you want to show that you have motivation and ideas to make improvements.

What have you accomplished? Your career is not a series of responsibilities, it’s a story of achievement. 

How can you quantify your accomplishments ? You know that data and detail are impressive on a resume, so add some to yours.

Human resources is a semi-outdated name for your department and career. Here are some alternate names:

  • People Operations: used by Google, Slack, Uber, Instacart and Square
  • People@: Facebook
  • Employee Experience: AirBnB
  • Employee Success: Salesforce
  • Partner (Human) Resources: Starbucks

Below you will find an adaptable employment history resume sample.

Human Resources Generalist at New Orleans East Hospital, New Orleans

March 2017 — October 2021

  • Planned, developed and implemented an innovative program of recruitment and placement for hospital personnel.
  • Managed the interviewing, screening and referral of qualified applicants.
  • Worked collaboratively with management to promote a climate conducive to attracting and retaining personnel.
  • Provided optimal support to employees regarding various HR-related topics.
  • Played an integral role in the development and implementation of human resource policies.
  • Worked to foster high job satisfaction ratings by resolving issues promptly.

Junior Human Resources Generalist

November 2014 — February 2017

  • Provided full spectrum recruitment for all open positions as assigned by the human resource director.
  • Meticulously sourced and screened candidate pools in an effort to provide hiring managers with high-quality candidates.
  • Scheduled interviews and follow-ups, as well as on-boarding procedures for new hires.
  • Provided ongoing guidance to departments to ensure adherence to all company policies, regulations and laws.

CV skills example: Well-rounded

Human resources professionals must have excellent people skills, but you need to develop a well-rounded CV skills section that takes into account your HR knowledge as well. 

When you scan CVs, why do your eyes head to the skills section? You want to make sure the candidate has the basic skills for the job you are trying to fill, but you also want to know what takes them to the next level. Use that to curate a skills section that directly addresses the job listing, but also gives recruiters a hint about the attributes you have that they didn’t even realize they needed (until you pointed it out).

Below you will find a skills section resume example.

  • Employee Relations
  • Employee Recruitment & Retention
  • HRIS Technologies
  • Communication Skills
  • Change Management
  • Training & Development
  • Employee Engagement

Human resources education resume example

The education section of your human resources resume is a listing of your academic degrees. Most human resources positions require a bachelor’s degree, but some may expect a master’s degree. If you have a master’s degree or higher, there’s no need to include high school.

You may have learned many of your skills on the job, but if you have taken any classes that enhance your candidacy, list those here as well.

Below you will find an education section resume example as a formatting guide.

  • Bachelor of Art in Human Resources Management, Tulane University, New Orleans
  • Sept. 2010 - May 2014

CV layout and design: First impressions

You know when you look at resumes (which are usually called CVs outside North America), you make a judgment. You may be able to overcome it when you see the excellent experience a candidate has, but you are much better off making that first impression be a great one!

Use the style you prefer when you review resumes. Keep it readable, neat and avoid trying to call attention to your flash instead of your substance.

A resume template can help you focus on the writing while ensuring the formatting always looks fresh.

  • Keep a balance of white space to text to avoid visual fatigue
  • Stick with the same font sizes and styles throughout your resume
  • Choose a layout that matches the look and feel of the company
  • Go overboard with color or images on an HR resume
  • Forget to proofread and check for grammar mistakes before you submit
  • Stray from the standard 1-inch margins

Key takeaways for a human resources resume

  • Human resources departments are evolving with the changing needs of the workforce, so make sure you highlight your most up-to-date skills.
  • Use the instincts you have developed in your career to guide the creation of your resume.
  • Exploit your knowledge of ATS software to target each job listing.
  • Check out our human resources resume sample for more ideas on how to create an attractive and functional CV .

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

Human Resource (HR) Resume - How-to Guide for 2024

Background Image

HR managers ensure a safe and thriving work environment for employees.

But before you can help the employees, you need to become one yourself.

This involves creating a job-winning HR resume.

But what does a good HR resume look like, anyway?

This is a question that can’t be left answered. 

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

  • A job-winning human resources resume example
  • How to create a human resources resume that hiring managers love
  • Specific tips and tricks for the human resources job industry

Here’s a human resources resume example, built with our own resume builder .

HR resume example

It’s now time to adjust the above example and make it yours.

Check out these resume examples that also might interest you:

  • Business Development Manager Resume
  • Office Manager Resume
  • Operations Manager Resume
  • Program Manager Resume
  • Project Manager Resume

How to Format a Human Resources Resume

HR jobs are highly sought after.

As such, you need to do everything in your power to stand out.

But before we get to the juicy stuff, you first need to select the correct format.

A well-formatted resume allows the recruiter to instantly see what a great HR manager you are.

With “ reverse-chronological ” being the most common resume format, we recommend this format for HR managers. It shows the peak of your work experience first, and then works back through your history and skills.

HR reverse chronological format

You could also try the two following formats…

  • Functional Resume – This format focuses on your skills, which makes it the best format for HR that are highly skilled, but have little in the way of HR work experience. 
  • Combination Resume – This format mixes both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological” formats, which means it focuses on both your HR skills AND work experience. 
  • Keep your resume to one-page. This shows the hiring manager that you can keep information brief and precise. Feel free to check out our one-page resume templates .

Use a Human Resources Resume Template

If you’re an office HR manager, there’s a high chance that Word is used on a daily basis.

However, just because you experienced with Word, doesn’t mean it’s the best tool for creating an HR resume.

For an unbeatable result, you may want to use an HR resume template. Select any of the following professional templates and tailor it according to your needs !

What to Include in a Human Resources Resume

The main sections in an HR resume are:

  • Contact Information
  • Work Experience

For an HR resume that stands out from other applications, add these optional sections:

  • Awards & Certification
  • Volunteer Experience

Interests & Hobbies

We’re now going to talk about each of the above sections, and explain the best practices for writing them.

For an in-depth rundown on which sections to use, check out our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Write Your Contact Information Section

As a HR professional, you should know that words should be chosen carefully. 

You should take the same level of caution when writing your contact section, as any mistake can render your whole application useless. 

For your contact information section , include…

  • Professional Title – This should align with the job description, which is “HR Manager”
  • Phone Number – Triple-check this. One small error can really mess up your chances
  • Email Address – Make sure to use a professional email address ([email protected]), and avoid that email you created back in 7th grade ([email protected])
  • Location – City & Country
  • (Optional) Relevant Social Media
  • Vanessa Mills - HR Manager. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
  • Vanessa Mills - HR Hero. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write an HR Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a question:

What takes less than a minute?

Well, a recruiter reading through a typical HR resume. 

This means you have an incredibly short window to catch their attention.

But is this even possible?

Yep! Just use a resume summary or objective .

These are brief, sharp paragraphs that go on top of your resume.

resume summary for hr resume

Let’s now look at how the two sections differ:

A resume summary is a short summary of your professional experiences and achievements. It is the best option for individuals who have multiple years of paralegal experience.

  • Human Resources Manager with 5+ years of experience seeks to improve employee retention and overall efficiency at XYZ Office. Career highlights include handling all employee relations in a 75-employee finance firm, reducing recruitment lead time by 35%, and increasing employee retention by 17%.

On the other hand, the resume objective focuses on your professional goals and aspirations. It is ideal for entry-level HR candidates or individuals who want a change in their professional career. Although you’re talking about your goals, it is important to relate the objective to your future employer’s gain.

  • Motivated Human Resources specialist looking to become the new HR Manager at Law Firm X. Experience includes sitting in on interviews, drafting confidential documentation, and organizing employee events. Enthusiastic to manage the HR department, where my skills can be leveraged for improved employee retention and office efficiency.

So, which one is best for you? 

Well, a summary is suited for HR managers who have previously held the position, whereas an objective is suited for those who are hoping to become an HR manager for the first time (student, graduate, or switching careers).

How to Make Your HR Work Experience Stand Out

For recruiters, finding the best candidate is an odds game.

As such, they are constantly looking to increase their chance of success.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to hire someone with vast HR work experience. 

Sure, your qualifications and personal skills are super important, but your professional experience reigns supreme.

Follow this layout in your experience section:

  • Position name
  • Company Name
  • Responsibilities & Achievements

And it should look something like this:

Human Resources Manager 

03/2017 - 04/2021

  • Handled all HR issues in a 75-employee finance firm
  • Oversaw the recruitment process, which reduced lead time by 35%
  • Increased employee retention by 17% 
  • Developed new training programs for a motivated and confident office environment

To show why you’re the best person for the job, make sure to highlight your best achievements.

For example, instead of saying:

“Managed recruitment”

“Oversaw the recruitment process, which reduced lead time by 35%”

So, what’s the difference between these two statements?

So, the candidate managed recruitment… But what is so special about this? Will this make the resume stand out?  

Compare this to the second statement, where it shows the candidate reduced lead time by 35%. This statistic instantly shows the value of hiring the employee, which is something that will stick in the recruiter’s memory.

  • Use the job description to your advantage. You can see if there is anything in the job description that matches your work history. If so, definitely include it!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Maybe you’re a graduate who has never worked full-time before?

Or maybe you’re transitioning from a different industry?

Whatever the situation, there are options if you don’t have experience as a HR manager.

Typically, HR-hopefuls will need to show that they have some HR experience. But this doesn’t mean that you needed to work under the title of “HR Manager”.

For example, let’s say you worked as an office assistant…

You could talk about how you were responsible for keeping records accurate and up to date, which are vital HR skills.

From there, you can take up a temporary position as an HR assistant, where you gain even more on-the-job experience.

For the students read this, you’ll enjoy our guide on how to make a student resume!

Use Action Words to Make Your HR Resume POP!

Since the aim of the game is to make your resume stand out, we’d recommend using some of these power words :

  • Conceptualized
  • Spearheaded

How to List Your Education Correctly

The next section in any HR resume is the education section.

Now, there is no set path to becoming a professional HR manager, so just be honest and describe your educational path to date. 

  • Degree Type & Major
  • University Name
  • Years Studied
  • GPA, Honours, Courses, and other relevant achievements 

B.A. in Human Resources

Boston State University

2013 - 2016

  • Relevant Courses: Constitutional/Administrative Law, Criminal Law, Contract Law, Equity & Trusts, EU Law, Public Law, Land Law, Tort Law

Now, you may have a few more questions, here are the most frequently asked questions:

What if I have yet to finish studying?

  • Whether or not you’re still studying, you should list every year of education so far

Should I include my high school education?

  • Only if you don’t have any higher education. The hiring manager won’t care about your high school education if you have a law degree

What goes first, education or experience?

  • If you’re an HR manager, your work experience should come before your education

If you still have questions, you can check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for an HR Resume

You need a certain set of skills to be a great HR manager.

It’s these skills that the recruiter is scanning for as they read your resume. 

Here are some of the most important HR skills to list on your resume:

Hard Skills for an HR Professional:

  • Data analysis
  • Evaluations
  • HR Software (HRIS)

Soft Skills:

  • Emotional intelligence
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Employee relations
  • Organization

Looking for a more comprehensive list? Here’s a mega-list of 100+ must-have skills .

Other Resume Sections You Can Include

By this point, you’re likely itching to get your resume out to the companies you want to work for.

After all, your resume is now the best it can be, right?!

Well, not really.

Remember, the #1 goal in the application process is to stand out.

And a resume that looks like a carbon copy of all the others is not going to do that.

If you’ve got your skills and experiences sorted, the following sections may be the deciding factor.

Awards & Certifications

Were you awarded for any projects during university?

Have you finished any HR-related courses on Coursera?

Whatever the recognition, you can improve your resume by including awards and certifications.

  • Recruiting, Hiring, and Onboarding Employees -  Coursera Certificate
  • Preparing to Manage HR - Coursera Certificate
  • Improve Your English Language Communication Skills - First Language School

Whether or not the human resources job requires you to speak a second language, the ability to do so is very impressive.

So, feel free to add a language section if you have space.

Order the languages by proficiency:

  • Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “why does the recruiter need to know about my passion for art?”

Well, because it shows your personal side.

And you’re more than an HR machine right?! 

As such, include some of your interests to become more relatable.

If you want some ideas of hobbies & interests to put on your resume, we have a guide for that!

Match Your Cover Letter with Your Resume

Oh dear…more writing.

But bear with us for a moment, as it’s for good reason.

Cover letters are still a vital part of the application process .

You can use this guide to write a dazzling HR resume, but failure to include a cover letter still gives your competition the edge.

Cover letters give a chance to talk to the recruiter with more depth and personality. 

Even better, it shows the company that you want THIS job , and you’re not just randomly sending resumes to every company in the local area.

Just like with the resume, the cover letter needs to be structured correctly. Here’s how to do that:

HR manager cover letter structure

And here’s what goes in each section:

Contact Details

Your personal contact information, including full name, profession, email, phone number, and location

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

Your introduction should be very strong. If you don’t manage to hook the hiring manager here, they’re not going to read the rest of your resume. So, mention:

  • The specific position you’re applying for
  • Your experience summary and top achievements

Once you’ve got the hiring manager hooked, you can go through the rest of your work history and personal background. Some of the points you can mention here are:

  • Why you want to work for this specific company
  • Anything you know about the company’s culture
  • What are your top skills and how are they relevant for the job
  • If you’ve worked in similar industries or positions

Closing Paragraph

This is where you:

  • Wrap up any points you missed in the body paragraph
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time
  • End with a call to action. Something like, “I’d love to further discuss how my experience as an X can help the company with Y”

Formal Salutations

To keep everything professional, use formal closing, such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely.”

Creating a cover letter is a craft. But don’t worry, you can call on our how to write a cover letter for guidance.

Key Takeaways

We’re assuming that you followed all of the advice in this guide, and are now about to receive an interview…or five. 

Before you go, let’s go over the main rules when creating a HR resume:

  • Select the correct format for an HR resume. Use a reverse-chronological format, and follow the best layout practices to keep everything clear and concise
  • Instantly grab the reader’s attention with a summary or objective 
  • Prioritize talking about your achievements, instead of your responsibilities
  • Match your resume with a HR cover letter that follows the best practises 

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How to Write Powerful and Memorable HR Resumes-Employee Development

7 rules to guide you through showcasing your talents and accomplishments

A man using a laptop in his living room.

No matter how many hundreds, or even thousands, of resumes you've reviewed throughout your HR career, writing your own resume is always a challenge. It can be difficult to take a step back and look at your career objectively to identify what makes you uniquely qualified and distinctive from other candidates. Why are people going to remember you? Why will people want to hire you? What is your unique value to a new employer?

The answers to those questions and many others should be the foundation upon which you build your resume and brand yourself for new professional opportunities.

While there's no formula or single template to use in crafting an HR resume, there are certain guidelines that will help you write, format and design a resume that will showcase your greatest talents, accomplishments and value to a potential new employer. These seven "rules of the resume road" are applicable to all HR professionals, managers and executives.

1. Use a Well-Branded Headline

Of course, your resume will start with your name and contact information (phone number and live links to both your e-mail address and LinkedIn profile) prominently positioned at the top of the page. Immediately following that, include a headline statement that tells readers “who” you are professionally in regard to your current career objective. With just a quick glance, readers instantly recognize that you’re an HR generalist, an employee and benefits specialist, or a senior HR and organizational development executive.

Your headline statement replaces the now outdated “Career Summary” or “Professional Profile” heading that you may have used in the past to begin the summary section of your resume. Those headings don’t communicate any information, while your headline instantly does.

After you’ve written your headline, think about adding one or two subheadings to further define your expertise. Do you have an industry specialization? Any distinguishing credentials? Experience with a hot-button HR issue? With just a few words, you can quickly convey relevant and valuable information about yourself that will set you apart from other candidates.

In the two sample resumes that accompany this article, you’ll immediately notice the relevant headlines: “Human Resources Manager” for Leslie Grant , followed by three short, bulleted statements that summarize her key areas of expertise. (The resumes are both linked to each person’s name, and appear at the end of the article.)

For Loretta Danielson , we’ve used a three-line headline. The first line, “Human Resources Director,” positions her for the level of job she’s targeting; the second line communicates the breadth of her experience, from startups to high-growth organizations; and the third line, “Positioning HR as a Business Partner for Excellence,” is what we refer to as a branding statement, her unique value proposition.

One word of caution about headlines—and, in fact, about everything that you include in your resume. Be certain that what you are highlighting matches not only what you’ve done in the past but also what you want to do in the future. This is extremely important because you want readers to perceive you as a qualified and experienced candidate for the positions you’re currently targeting.

If you have extensive experience managing compensation and benefits, for example, but you don’t want that to be a major part of your next job, don’t highlight it with a headline. You can mention it as appropriate in the experience section, but don’t make the mistake of drawing attention to something you don’t want readers to focus on. Be selective and be strategic.

2. Share Details About the Organizations Where You’ve Worked

Help your readers understand the depth and breadth of your experience by providing details about the organizations where you’ve worked. You can cite the number of employees, the number of locations, the total annual company revenue, the specific business or industry, and other details that will give readers a frame of reference.

You’ll notice brief company descriptions on both of the resume samples we’re sharing. On Leslie’s resume, the information is integrated into the short paragraph immediately under each company’s name. On Loretta’s resume, the information is positioned right next to the company name.

No matter where you position the information, it’s valuable. Knowing where you’ve worked helps readers put everything into context and makes your experience and accomplishments all that more impressive.

Just as with your headline, be strategic. If you’ve worked only at very large public companies and now want to move to a small privately held business, the size of those companies might scare off your target employers. Think about your goals and add the details that make you a good fit for the companies, associations and/or other organizations where you want to work.

3. Emphasize Achievements

This is perhaps the most critical strategy in creating a powerful and memorable resume. Without specific achievements, your resume will sound much like that of any other HR professional who has similar experience.

While your knowledge and expertise are important, hiring managers want to know more. They want to know what you have done—how you have contributed to business objectives, how you have made a difference, what measurable results you have produced, how you’ve strengthened the HR organization, what you’ve done to improve company culture and more.

In the accompanying sample resumes, you will see both quantified and unquantified achievement bullets. It’s important to realize that both add value to the resume, so don’t feel that you must have a number or hard result for every bullet point.

In fact, HR professionals sometimes find it difficult to quantify achievements. After all, HR is not sales. But we encourage you to dig deep to find results wherever possible. Often if you ask yourself about the problem you solved—not just the activity, but why that activity was important to the business—you can find positive and perhaps measurable outcomes.

4. Highlight HR Keywords

You know how important keywords are for both human readers and electronic eyes scanning your resume. If you don’t include those all-important terms, you may be perceived as unqualified and your resume may be passed over. Don’t let that happen to you!

Look for opportunities to introduce keywords throughout your resume. You can create a “Core Competencies” or “Professional Skills Summary” at the top, but that’s not enough. You want keywords to be prevalent throughout every section of your resume.

Look at Leslie’s resume. When you read her Professional Experience section, you find a wealth of HR keywords in every sentence. What’s more, her resume isn’t loaded with lengthy “responsible for” statements. Rather, the keywords are seamlessly integrated into all of her achievement bullets so that readers gain clear and compelling evidence of her HR activities, expertise and value.

Next, look at Loretta’s resume. One of the first things you notice in the Professional Experience section are the bold keywords at the start of each bullet point. This is a very effective strategy both for increasing the keyword density of your resume and for making your resume highly “skimmable.” Readers immediately gain a sense of your expertise from a quick keyword scan, setting you apart from the competition.

5. Prepare Your Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems

Carrying on with our discussion of the importance of keywords … as an HR professional you have an advantage over most candidates. You have the opportunity to look “under the hood” of an applicant tracking system (ATS) to see what happens in a typical keyword-driven resume review. Use that knowledge for your own benefit.

Because there are so many ATSs, and because candidate searches are conducted by humans who have their own habits and preferences, you can’t guarantee a perfect result from every ATS scan. But you can—and should—follow best practices for formatting your resume, integrating keywords and increasing keyword density.

For example, in Loretta’s resume you’ll note that the acronyms after her name are later spelled out fully in the appropriate section of the resume. “SHRM-SCP” becomes “Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional” under the Education & Professional Credentials section. This gives her a greater chance of being found in a computerized keyword scan, regardless of the exact term the hiring manager inputs for a specific search.

6. Share What Makes You Special

Obviously, your professional experience and educational credentials are vital in positioning you as a well-qualified candidate. However, there are many other items you can—and should—include in your resume if relevant to your career. These items add further value, distinction and qualification.

Be certain to include any of these that are relevant to you: Professional credentials (e.g., SHRM-SCP); professional affiliations (e.g., SHRM, OD Network); board of director appointments and other leadership posts; presentations and public speaking engagements; media features and quotes; and publications. We recommend that you focus the above on professional activities and exclude common civic and/or community-based affiliations. Resume “real estate”—just one or two pages—is extremely valuable, so you want to be certain that each line of text adds strength to your candidacy.

7. Write Tight, Lean and Clean

Clean, clear, concise writing is the hallmark of a powerful and modern resume. Readers simply don’t have the time or inclination to wade through irrelevant experiences, fluffy adjectives, unnecessary details and other “filler” that weighs down many resumes. No one writes tight, lean and clean on the first pass. It requires repeated review, careful editing, and a constant focus on strategy and goals to determine what’s important to include and what does not support your professional brand and your current career objectives. In addition to tight writing, pay attention to how your resume is formatted. Avoid dense paragraphs (anything longer than three or four lines) and allow ample white space to create an inviting document that rewards readers, whether they come for a quick skim or a more thorough read.

Moving Forward

These seven guidelines to writing powerful, impactful and memorable HR resumes cover just some of the many things you can do to create a resume that will work for you and distinguish you from the crowd of other applicants, many of whom are also well-qualified. Constantly remind yourself that you’re writing to the future—to the positions that you’re targeting—and emphasize the relevant skills, experiences, achievements, keywords and results.

If you can focus on what matters most, showcase what’s unique about you and your career, and design a resume that’s sharp and distinctive, chances are you will get noticed, you will get interviewed and, we hope, you will get hired.

Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark are both Master Resume Writers (MRW), Job & Career Transition Coaches (JCTC), and Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW). Separately and together, they have authored 40-plus books on resumes, cover letters, keywords and career management, including the recently released Modernize Your Resume: Get Noticed … Get Hired (Emerald Career Publishing, 2016) ( www.emeraldcareerpublishing.com ). Reach them by e-mail at wendy@wendyenelow.com or louise@louisekursmark.com .

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Human Resources Resume Summary Examples and Samples

resume for human resources

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #1

A competent, organized and outgoing individual with a strong work ethic and exceptional communication skills. International and local working experience, a keen desire to learn new tasks and grow, looking to contribute to an international or a local brand in the area of Human Resources.

Related : Our guide on how to write a resume summary .

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Human Resources Resume Summary Example #2

I am an outgoing, creative, goal-oriented, and resourceful person with a growing academic hunger. I take interest in human resources planning, conflict resolution, and societal dynamics to further my skills as an HR.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #3

HR Professional with 9 years of experience in End-to-End recruitment, skilled in tech sourcing, resume screening, interviewing, negotiating and closing the best talent. Hired over 200 candidates for various technology and business positions in just a year.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #4

Experienced payroll specialist in Texas for 3 years in a retail company with 500+ employees and HR generalist for a year. Treasury & Branch Accountant professional in Austin for 5 years in a food and beverage company.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #5

Senior HR Manager with extensive experience and a proven success of 10 years in driving strategic HR operational initiatives with a key focus on Talent Acquisition, Employee Retention, Succession Planning, Organizational Development, Capability Development, Legal Compliance, Grievance Management, and Cost & Resource Optimization in Software Product Based Companies

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #6

Notable success in realizing top & bottom-line results, streamlining operations and heightening employee productivity by mastering HR situations for integrating human resource functions with overall Business Goals & Industry Standards by liaising with global counterpart for competency building & mobility

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #7

Directed the strategic framework for Talent Acquisition & Employee Relation Activities, Recruitment & Selection, Legal & Liaison Work, Statutory Compliances based operations; deep understanding of industry related issues, employee satisfaction and staff development.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #8

An ambassador of change, innovating profitable solutions for various aspects of human resource management; proficient in transforming HR processes and enabling innovations to improve organizational performance & productivity; successfully implemented HRIS across various processes encompassing Recruitment and Employee Lifecycle Management.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #9

Showcased strategic leadership skills by managing & administering a team of HR Professionals and conceptualizing recruitment techniques, cost-effective training & development, and compensation strategies; Lead organizational development that addressed issues such as succession planning, workforce development, key employee retention, organization design and change management.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #10

Expertise in driving Key Talent Management and Retention strategies including talent review, talent identification, competency assessment, bridge the competency gap through creation of individual development plans to support the business and achieve ambitious growth plans; Proficient in conducting employee engagement activities.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #12

A result oriented individual committed towards the growth of people & organization. Expert in developing, recommending and implementing human resources strategies and policies in support of business objectives. Proficient in talent management, employee relations, recruitment, manpower planning & placement and performance management.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #13

Enthusiastic and dedicated professional with outstanding experience in guiding institutional-or organization-wide program initiatives. Expertise in matters relative to equity, diversity, inclusion and justice. Possess exceptional ability to lead cross-functional teams in order to identify new program capabilities, assess resources, and collaborate with personnel ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope of budget.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #14

Client-centric, energetic, hands-on Human Resources leader with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Experienced in a variety of fast-changing industries from consumer products to biotechnology, with proven success in all aspects of the human resources discipline

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #15

As a motivated, goal-oriented, responsible and committed intern and employee , I would now like to optimally implement and expand my knowledge and skills at your company.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #16

Human resource professional with experience in delivering high quality results. Extensive background in HR generalist affairs, including recruitment and retention, staff training and development, mediation, conflict resolution, benefits and compensation, HR records management, HR policies development and compliance.

Human Resources Resume Summary Example #17

A creative and innovative thinker with effective Human Resources management, and goal setting abilities combined with communication, interpersonal skills. Self-motivated with the ability to excel in a fast-paced environment; communicate effectively at all levels; manage competing priorities, and adapt readily to new challenges. Enjoy working in a multicultural and vibrant team, and look forward to making a difference in a global HR team.

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195 Resume Power Words That Will Get You Hired (+ Examples)

Dave Fano

3 key takeaways

  • Power words in resumes can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.
  • Tailor your power words to your specific industry and job role for maximum effectiveness.
  • Teal’s AI Resume Builder helps make every resume bullet point impactful with AI.

Power words are to resumes what headlines are to a newspaper—they highlight key details and orient the reader. Resume action words grab the attention of the hiring manager and applicant tracking systems—increasing your odds of standing out.

In this guide, you'll learn 195 resume power words, how to use them effectively, and the nuances of industry-specific power powers to help you craft a compelling resume that lands job interviews.

Struggling to land interviews? Write a more impactful resume with Teal's resume builder AI .

What are resume power words?

Resume power words are strong, descriptive words that highlight your skills, achievements, and qualifications. These words help you make an impact because they: 

  • Grab attention: They draw the reader's eye to your key accomplishments.
  • Convey confidence: You appear self-assured and capable by using assertive language.
  • Showcase specificity: Power words are precise and help hiring managers skim your resume without missing important details.
  • Improve ATS performance: Power words often align with keywords that applicant tracking systems are programmed to identify. This increases your chances of passing initial screenings. 

195 resume power words to supercharge your application

To make your resume stand out, use words that showcase your achievements. Here's a list of resume power words designed to help your application leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

Resume action verbs

Strong action verbs communicate your exact responsibility in a job role. They help hiring managers assess your accomplishments in context. Here are 100 powerful verbs that can make each bullet point on your resume more compelling.

  • Spearheaded
  • Orchestrated

Communication

  • Articulated

Problem-solving

  • Troubleshot
  • Streamlined
  • Conceptualized

Achievement

  • Outperformed
  • Accelerated
  • Investigated
  • Benchmarked

Improvement

  • Coordinated
  • Administered
  • Consolidated

Customer service

  • Implemented

Project management

  • Facilitated

Collaboration

Accomplishment, descriptive adjectives.

The right adjectives can paint a vivid picture of the candidate's personal qualities and strengths. These 50 descriptive words will help you make an impact.

  • Collaborative
  • Resourceful
  • Enterprising
  • Conscientious
  • Accomplished
  • Results-oriented
  • Detail-oriented

Industry-specific buzzwords

Each industry has its own language, and using the right buzzwords can demonstrate your expertise and familiarity with the field. These 45 industry-specific terms can help you speak directly to hiring managers in your chosen field.

  • Machine learning
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Risk management
  • Quantitative analysis
  • Content marketing
  • Brand equity
  • Conversion rate
  • Customer acquisition
  • Telemedicine
  • Electronic health records (EHR)
  • Patient-centered care
  • Clinical trials
  • Population health
  • Differentiated instruction
  • Blended learning
  • Formative assessment
  • Inquiry-based learning

Human resources

  • Talent acquisition
  • Employee engagement
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Performance management
  • Succession planning
  • Due diligence
  • Intellectual property
  • Arbitration

Manufacturing

  • Lean manufacturing
  • Supply chain management
  • Quality assurance
  • Just-in-Time (JIT)

Environmental

  • Sustainability
  • Renewable energy
  • Carbon footprint
  • Circular economy
  • Green technology

How to use power words effectively in your resume

Now, you can’t just replace regular words with their “powerful synonyms” and call it a day. You have to place them strategically to gently compel the reader or impress hiring managers. Here’s how:

Identifying key responsibilities in job postings can help you tailor your resume effectively, ensuring alignment between your skills and the specific demands of the job.

Using power words effectively requires strategy and balance. Here’s how to make the most of them in your resume.

Tailor power words to job descriptions

To maximize your chances of getting noticed, align power words closely with the specific job description:

1. Analyze the job posting: Identify key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities emphasized in the listing.

2. Highlight relevant keywords: Note industry-specific terms and power verbs used in the description. Tip: Teal's Matching Mode does this for you.

Teal Matching Mode feature

3. Match your experiences: Select power words that accurately describe your achievements and align with the job requirements.

4. Incorporate naturally: Weave these words into your resume, ensuring they fit contextually and don't appear forced.

5. Prioritize placement: Use the most impactful power words in prominent sections like your professional summary and recent job descriptions. If you're writing a cover letter, sprinkle power words throughout but don't stuff them in any one section.

Balance action words with concrete examples

While power words add impact, they must be supported by specific, quantifiable achievements:

  • Start with a power word: Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb.
  • Follow with a specific accomplishment: Provide context and details about what you achieved.
  • Quantify results: Include numbers, percentages, or other measurable outcomes whenever possible.
  • Show impact: Explain how your actions benefited the company or contributed to larger goals.

Power word example in a sentence

  • Weak: Responsible for sales increase.
  • Strong: Spearheaded sales initiative that boosted revenue by 35% in Q3, outperforming targets by 20%.

Avoid overuse and maintain authenticity

While power words are effective, overuse can diminish their impact and make your resume seem insincere:

  • Use variety: Avoid repeating the same power words throughout your resume.
  • Be truthful: Only use words that accurately reflect your experiences and abilities.
  • Balance with simpler language: Mix power words with more straightforward language to maintain readability.
  • Consider context: Ensure the power words you choose are appropriate for your industry and career level.
  • Read aloud: Review your resume by reading it out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or overuse of power words.

Replacing weak words with power words

Not all words are created equal when it comes to your resume. By replacing weak, vague words with stronger alternatives, you can create a more impactful narrative. Here’s how to make those crucial swaps:

Common weak words to avoid

Frequently used weak words can dilute the impact of a resume by making your accomplishments seem vague or unimpressive. Here are some common weak words and why they are ineffective:

  • Responsible for : Implies duty, not action
  • Helped : Lacks specificity and doesn’t highlight your role
  • Worked on : Vague and does not convey the impact of your initiative
  • Assisted with : Implies a secondary role, not leadership
  • Participated in : Does not show your direct contributions or the extent of your role
  • Job duties included : Focuses on tasks rather than achievements
  • Familiar with : Suggests a basic understanding and not proficiency
  • Involved in : Does not clarify your specific role
  • Handled : Too general; does not indicate outcomes
  • Dealt with : Vague and non-specific

Power word alternatives

Replace weak words with powerful alternatives to make your resume more dynamic and impactful. Here’s a list of common weak words and their power word alternatives:

List of resume power words like "managed" and "led"

Examples of how to rewrite sentences using power words:

Weak: Responsible for managing team projects. Strong: Orchestrated cross-functional team projects, consistently delivering results 15% ahead of schedule. ‍ ‍ Weak: Helped with customer service issues. Strong: Resolved complex customer service issues, achieving a 98% satisfaction rate and reducing escalations by 30%. Weak: Worked on marketing campaigns. Strong: Developed and executed integrated marketing campaigns, driving a 25% increase in customer engagement.

Industry-specific power word examples

Tailoring your resume with industry-specific power words can draw the reader's attention to relevant achievements. These examples show how to align your language with the expectations and standards of various fields.

Technology and IT

In the world of technology and IT, precision and clarity are key. Here’s a selection of power words that can help you articulate your technical expertise and accomplishments.Power words

  • Architected

Sample resume statements

  • Architected scalable cloud infrastructure, reducing downtime by 99% and cutting operational costs by 30%.
  • Debugged complex legacy code, improving system performance by 40% and eliminating critical security vulnerabilities.

Finance and accounting

Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial in finance and accounting. These power words will help you highlight your analytical skills and financial acumen:

Power words

  • Diversified
  • Strategized
  • Forecasted quarterly revenue projections with 98% accuracy to aid expansion initiatives.
  • Streamlined accounts payable processes, to reduce  processing time by 35% and eliminate $50,000 in annual late fees.

Marketing and sales

Success in marketing and sales depends on driving engagement and converting opportunities into results. These power words will help you showcase your ability to innovate, persuade, and achieve impressive outcomes:

  • Transformed
  • Revolutionized
  • Launched an innovative social media campaign that led to increased brand engagement by 150% and drove 10,000 new qualified leads.
  • Negotiated strategic partnerships with key industry players, resulting in a 40% boost in annual revenue and expanded market share.

Healthcare and medical

In the healthcare and medical sectors, your resume usually needs to reflect both your technical skills and your dedication to patient care. These power words emphasize your expertise in delivering quality healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

  • Rehabilitated
  • Collaborated
  • Implemented new patient care protocols, reducing average hospital stay duration by two days and improving patient satisfaction scores by 25%.
  • Researched and introduced cutting-edge treatment methods, resulting in a 40% increase in positive outcomes for chronic condition management.

Education and teaching

Educators are not just teachers—they are mentors and leaders shaping the future. Use these power words to highlight your contributions to student learning, curriculum development, and educational excellence.

  • Differentiated
  • Developed and implemented inquiry-based science curriculum, increasing student engagement by 45% and improving standardized test scores by 30%.
  • Mentored struggling students through targeted intervention programs, resulting in an 80% improvement in academic performance over one semester.

How to add power words to different resume sections using AI

Strategically incorporating power words throughout your resume can make it seem more personalized and human. Here's how Teal helps:

Professional summary

The professional summary is your chance to make a strong first impression. Use power words to concisely convey your value proposition:

Example: "Dynamic marketing strategist with a proven track record of developing innovative campaigns that drive engagement and boost ROI. Skilled in leveraging data analytics to optimize performance and deliver measurable results across diverse industries."

You can add a professional summary by using Teal’s in-built summary generator. Follow these steps: 

  • Import your existing resume into the Resume Builder

Import your LinkedIn profile or create a resume from scratch in minutes if you don't have one. Your summary will be more accurate if you provide more details about your career. 

  • Update your work experiences and add achievements

Be sure to include multiple accomplishments related to your recent roles for the best results from the Resume Summary Generator.

Teal's professional summary feature using AI

  • Generate your resume summary with AI

Save the AI-generated resume summaries to your Teal Resume Builder.

  • Review and regenerate your summary

By clicking "Re-generate with AI", you can generate a new professional summary based on the existing settings. 

You can save multiple resume summaries so you can use different ones for different applications. 

Work experience

In your work experience section, use power words to highlight your achievements and responsibilities.

Teal's AI Assistant makes this easy, automatically adding power powers to the beginning of every bullet point.

  • Before: Responsible for managing team and completing projects.
  • After: Spearheaded a cross-functional team of 12, delivering complex projects 20% under budget and one week ahead of schedule.
  • Before: Helped with customer service and solved problems.
  • After: Resolved critical customer issues, achieving a 98% satisfaction rate and reducing churn by 15%.

Skills section

Enhance your skills section by using power words that align with industry-specific competencies:

  • Proficient in data visualization and predictive modeling techniques
  • Adept at agile project management methodologies
  • Skilled in negotiating high-stakes contracts and partnerships

Teal resume with skills column

Achievements and accomplishments

Use power words to make your achievements and resume stand out:

  • Pioneered company-wide sustainability initiative, reducing carbon footprint by 30% and generating $2M in cost savings.
  • Orchestrated merger and acquisition strategy, resulting in 50% market share growth within 18 months.
  • Revolutionized customer onboarding process, slashing time-to-value by 60% and boosting retention rates by 25%.

The impact of power words on applicant tracking systems (ATS)

In today’s job market, your resume must pass through ATS before reaching human eyes. Understanding how power words interact with these systems can give you a crucial edge in landing an interview.

How ATS process power words

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) play a crucial role in the initial screening of resumes. Here’s how they interact with power words:

  • Keyword matching: ATS scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job description.
  • Relevance scoring: Resumes are ranked based on the presence and frequency of relevant terms.
  • Contextual analysis: Advanced ATS can understand the context in which words are used, not just their presence.
  • Skill identification: Power words often signal specific skills or experiences that match job requirements.

Strategies for ATS-friendly power word usage

To ensure your resume is both ATS-friendly and impactful:

  • Incorporate relevant keywords: Use keywords from the job description naturally throughout your resume.
  • Balance power words and keywords: Mix industry-standard terms with relevant power words.
  • Avoid overstuffing: Don’t overuse keywords or power words to the point of reducing readability.
  • Use standard formatting: Stick to simple, ATS-compatible formatting to ensure all keywords and power words are recognized.

Measuring the effectiveness of your power words

Crafting the perfect resume requires continuous refinement. A/B testing and gathering feedback are essential for measuring the impact of your power words and ensuring your resume resonates with employers.

A/B testing your resume

A/B testing your resume can help determine the effectiveness of different power word usage:

  • Create variants: Develop two versions of your resume, each using different sets of power words.
  • Submit both versions: Apply to similar jobs with both resume versions.
  • Track responses: Monitor the response rate from employers for each version.
  • Analyze results: Determine which version received more positive feedback or job interview invitations.

Gathering feedback

Professional feedback is crucial for refining your resume:

  • Ask for reviews: Request input from career coaches, mentors, or peers.
  • Use online services: Utilize professional resume review services for expert advice.
  • Interpret feedback: Analyze the feedback received to understand how your power word usage can be improved.

Power up your career with resume power words

To create a distinct resume, use words that pack a punch and highlight your achievements with precision. Power words tailored to the job and industry can elevate your resume’s impact. But remember, balance is crucial—combine these words with metrics and case studies to avoid sounding superficial.

Start by refining your resume and adding or improving power words where needed. Teal’s AI-powered Resume Builder can streamline this process, helping you craft a resume that grabs attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many power words should you include in your resume.

Balance is crucial when incorporating power words into your resume. Aim for one to two power words per bullet point to maintain a strong yet natural tone. This ensures your resume is impactful without appearing exaggerated.

Can using too many power words hurt your chances of getting hired?

Yes, overusing power words can hurt your chances by making your resume seem insincere or cliché. It’s important to use power words genuinely to reflect your true experiences and achievements. Mixing power words with straightforward language helps maintain a natural flow.

Are there any power words you should avoid in your resume?

Avoid overused or cliché power words like "committed dynamic," "synergy," "hardworking," and "go-getter." These terms can make your resume seem generic and unimpressive. Instead, choose more industry-specific and impactful alternatives that accurately describe your skills and achievements.

How can you use power words if you're just starting your career?

If you're starting your career, focus on highlighting transferable skills gained from internships, volunteer work, or academic projects. Use power words to emphasize your enthusiasm and potential for growth. For example, instead of "participated in a marketing project," say "spearheaded a marketing project that increased social media engagement by 20%."

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Department of Economics

  • Undergraduate

18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

  • A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
  • Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
  • Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

  • Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
  • Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
  • Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

  • Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
  • Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
  • Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
  • Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

  • How to Prepare for a Job Interview
  • What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
  • Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
  • How to Dress for a Job Interview
  • How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
  • How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
  • How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
  • Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

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Human resource management: All you need to know

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Find out everything you need to know about human resource management, from what it entails, to how it can transform your business.

Sarah Cheesman

When it comes to competitive businesses, the success of an organization hinges not just on its products or services, but on how effectively it manages its most valuable asset—its people.

The goal for most companies is to build a team where every employee is motivated, skilled, and aligned with the company’s goals, and that’s exactly what a good Human Resource Management (HRM) setup can do.

This article will guide you through the essentials of HRM, taking a look at how it can transform your business, and ensuring you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need to develop your own thriving workplace.

What is human resource management?

The main functions of human resource management, the responsibilities of a good hrm, hrm for small and medium-sized businesses, the importance of hrm software, what is human resource management and its functions, what are the key roles of an hr manager, what are the main areas of hr, how does hr compliance affect businesses, why is hrm crucial for smes, final thoughts, performance improvement plan (pip) template.

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HRM is a strategic approach that effectively manages an organization’s employees.

It mainly focuses on recruiting, developing, and retaining employees in a way that aligns their skills and efforts with the company’s goals and objectives.

By implementing well-designed HR practices and policies, HRM helps create a more productive and happy work environment, driving both employee satisfaction and organizational success.

By focusing on effective recruitment, development, and retention , HRM ensures that your employees are not only performing at their best, but also contributing positively to your business’s success.

Understanding the main functions of HRM can give you a clearer picture of how it drives your organization’s success. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas it might cover:

Recruitment and staffing

HRM is your best asset when it comes to sourcing and bringing in the right talent, covering identifying the skills your organization needs, attracting qualified candidates, and hiring individuals who will contribute positively to your team.

Training and development

Once you’ve got your team in place, HRM takes charge of their ongoing development. This means organizing training sessions, providing learning opportunities, supporting employees in growing their skills, and preparing them for future challenges.

Compensation and benefits

Managing salaries, bonuses, and benefits is another key aspect of HRM. This makes sure that your employees are fairly compensated for their work and that the benefits packages you offer meet their needs. When you offer a competitive compensation package, it can help to attract and retain top talent.

Performance management

HRM is responsible for evaluating and managing employee performance —setting clear goals, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews. By aligning individual performance with your company goals, you can make sure that everyone has a joined up approach to objectives and gets the support they need, early on, to improve.

Employee relations

Maintaining healthy relationships between the organization and its employees also falls under HRM. This could be things like addressing grievances, resolving conflicts, and creating a positive workplace environment.

Compliance and legal

HRM also plays a critical role in ensuring your organization stays on the right side of labour laws and regulations. This means keeping up with legal requirements, implementing necessary policies, and making sure your practices are compliant.

Effective HRM is all about actively contributing to the long-term success of your organisation. Here’s how a good HRM team can make a real difference:

Strategic planning

HRM works closely with leadership to make sure that HR objectives support the overall direction of the company. By integrating HR goals with the broader business strategy, HRM helps ensure that your workforce is equipped and motivated to drive the organization forward.

Change management

HRM is essential for managing organizational change—whether that’s implementing new technologies, processes, or policies, it can help to smooth the transition for employees. This includes communicating changes clearly, providing support during the adjustment period, and making sure that everyone adapts to new ways of working.

Workplace culture and engagement

Creating a positive workplace culture is a key responsibility of HRM. You want to create an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated. HRM can drive employee engagement through various different initiatives, such as team-building activities, recognition programmes, and opportunities for professional growth.

Health and safety

Ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is a fundamental responsibility of HRM. This could be implementing safety protocols, conducting regular risk assessments, or providing resources for employee well-being.

Diversity and inclusion

HRM should also be actively working to create a workplace that welcomes and values individuals from diverse backgrounds, supporting initiatives that encourage an inclusive environment, such as diversity training and equitable hiring practices. Embracing diversity not only enhances your company culture but is proven to also drive innovation and improve overall performance.

When it comes to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), HRM needs to be both flexible and strategic to meet the unique challenges these businesses face. Here’s some ideas on how:

Tailored HR strategies

For SMEs, one-size-fits-all HR practices just don’t work. Unlike larger organizations with extensive resources, SMEs often need more adaptable and customised HR strategies.

This might mean developing HR policies that can scale as the business grows, or creating flexible working arrangements that suit a smaller team. The key is to implement HR practices that are aligned with your specific business needs and that can evolve as those needs change.

Cost-effective HR solutions

Managing HR on a tight budget is a common challenge for SMEs, making cost-effective solutions a top priority. This might involve outsourcing certain HR functions, such as payroll or recruitment, to save time and money. Using specialised HR software can streamline processes and reduce overheads, meaning you can focus more resources on growing your business.

Employee retention in SMEs

Keeping top talent can be particularly challenging in smaller organizations where resources are more limited. However, HRM can help you develop effective retention strategies that work within your constraints. This can include offering non-monetary benefits, such as flexible working hours or opportunities for professional development, which can be just as valuable to employees as higher salaries.

As your business grows, managing HR tasks manually can become time-consuming and open to errors. HRM software can play a crucial role in automating and streamlining your HR processes, handling everything from payroll to employee records.

This can help you improve efficiency, reduce human error, and free up time to focus on more strategic HR tasks—basically making it as stress-free as possible for you and your team.

If you’re looking for a user-friendly HRM solution, Sage software is a popular choice among businesses of all sizes. Sage offers tools that simplify HR management, whether you’re handling payroll, tracking employee performance, or managing benefits.

Its ease of use and scalability make it a great fit for businesses at different stages of growth, helping you manage your HR tasks more effectively.

Using HRM software offers several key benefits. For one, it centralizes all your employee data, making it easier to access and manage information when you need it. It also streamlines payroll processing, ensuring that your employees are paid accurately and on time.

HRM software can also help you stay on top of compliance management, reducing the risk of legal issues by keeping your practices aligned with current regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Human resource management is the practice of managing people in an organisation to help it achieve its goals. Core functions include recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, performance management, employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labour laws.

An HR manager typically wears several hats, including those of an administrator, change manager, and personnel manager. They handle everything from running payroll and creating workplace policies to managing employee relations and facilitating organisational changes.

HR professionals focus on several main areas: recruitment and staffing, training and development, compensation and benefits, compliance and safety, and employee relations. Each area plays a crucial role in supporting the organisation and ensuring its smooth operation.

HR compliance is critical for keeping your business in line with employment laws and regulations. It helps you avoid legal troubles, fines, and potential damage to your company’s reputation by ensuring that your HR practices are fair, transparent, and legally sound.

For Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), effective HRM is essential for building a strong, motivated team that can drive business growth. It helps SMEs attract and retain talent, manage HR processes efficiently, and create a positive work environment, all of which are key to staying competitive.

Human resource management is vital for any company, regardless of its size.

By strategically managing your people, you can align your workforce with your business goals, improve employee engagement, and boost overall productivity and happiness.

Whether you’re running a small business or a huge enterprise, effective HRM practices are the absolute foundation for a successful, thriving organisation.

Browse more topics from this article

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See advice specific to your business

The State of Human Resources Leadership Report (2023 Data)

Insights into hr managers at top performing companies from bamboohr.

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The way we work is in upheaval: COVID-19, hybrid and remote work, the Great Resignation, labor shortages, and Quiet Quitting have changed the business landscape, and human resource leaders have borne the brunt.

As HR themes continue to dominate headlines, the need for excellent human resource managers has never been greater. It begs the question: What does a human resource leader look like in 2023?

We researched HR professionals' careers from the top 100 companies on the Fortune 500 and Inc. 5000 2022 lists, gathering data on their education and experience. Here’s what we found.

  • While 100% of the Fortune 100 have human resource leadership, only 35% of Inc. 100 startups have dedicated HR support.
  • At 81% of startups, women lead HR.
  • 85% of enterprises have DE&I leadership positions, compared to just 3% of Inc. 100 startups.
  • Startups are rebranding human resources: 39% of startups refer to HR with titles that include “People," such as Chief People Officer, compared to just 21% of enterprise companies.
  • Just 1 in 5 HR managers hold certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or other professional organizations.
  • HR managers at Fortune 100 companies have 4x as many followers on social media as HR leaders at startups.
  • HR managers are LinkedIn power users, with 80% accumulating 500+ LinkedIn connections.

Are Startups Missing Human Resource Leadership?

Only one-third of Inc. 100 startups have an HR pro on staff, which suggests that startups may be waiting for growth before adding a dedicated HR role to their roster.

The larger an organization grows, the more vital HR becomes, which is why it’s no surprise that 100% of Fortune 100 enterprises have an HR professional on their payroll.

While companies face unique challenges and opportunities as they grow, every company needs to manage recruitment, employee engagement, compensation, and benefits administration—not to mention labor law compliance.

Even though HR is an essential part of business operations, 26% of the top enterprise companies don’t have a C-level HR role. That means HR is left out of vital business decisions in companies with tens of thousands—or hundreds of thousands—of employees.

Companies With a Human Resource Professional:

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Does your executive team have HR representation?

Take the poll on LinkedIn

Who Leads HR at Startups and Enterprises?

Companies with female hr heads:.

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Is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion a Priority at Startups?

When it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), there’s a stark contrast between enterprises and startups. 85% of Fortune 100 enterprises have a dedicated DE&I leader, compared to only 3% of Inc. 100 startups.

In general, enterprises have larger HR teams, and can dedicate responsibilities like payroll, benefits, or DE&I to individual roles. Our data reveals that 65% of startups have no HR department at all—meaning they need HR pros who can wear multiple hats and cover a broad range of HR-related functions.

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Is a "Human Resources" Title Out of Date?

Over the years, organizations have started to get more creative with their human resource managers' titles.

One of the most popular choices is a title featuring “People," such as Chief People Officer. Nearly 2 in 5 HR managers at startups (39%) currently or previously have used a "People" title.

That's nearly double the 21% of enterprise HR managers whose employers use the typical naming conventions of human resources.

Some other human resource titles used by companies in our report include:

  • Chief Colleague Experience Officer
  • Head of Human Capital Management
  • VP of Talent
  • Chief of Staff
  • VP of Employee Success

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“At BambooHR, we all understand the need to focus on the human part of human resources. Because, guess what? When the people who work for you feel that your business prioritizes their humanity, they won’t just treat others in your organization with more care—they’ll also do the same for your customers.”

Anita Grantham | Head of HR at BambooHR

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What's the Best Degree for an HR Career?

There’s no right way to become an HR manager. The paths to an HR career are varied, complete with diversity in degrees, certifications, and company tenure.

Human resource professionals come from a myriad of educational backgrounds, with most holding a bachelor’s degree. This reflects many people’s experience in taking on HR duties for their small company in spite of little to no formal training in HR.

The 5 Most Common Academic Majors for HR Managers:

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In fact, fewer than 1 in 10 HR leaders have an HR-specific degree. Meanwhile, nearly one-third (31%) have a non-HR or business degree, meaning you can come to HR from just about anywhere.

Some other common degrees include:

  • Public Administration
  • Political Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Conflict Management

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However, when it comes to HR leadership, there’s a clear correlation with advanced degrees. More than half of HR leaders (57%) have a master’s degree or higher.

How Many HR Managers Have Advanced Degrees?

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If you want to be in HR leadership at a major organization, continuing education should be a priority. But if you’re thinking you need a degree in human resources in order to reach the executive level, think again.

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“When you’re hiring an HR professional, seek a wide variety of candidates instead of limiting your talent pool based on a resume checklist. Instead, look for people who add to your company culture—not who just fit the existing mold.”

Do HR Managers Need Professional Certifications?

Only 1 in 4 HR managers (24%) have a professional certification.

Clearly, an HR certification isn’t completely necessary to become a human resource manager. But if you’re new to the field or developing your HR skills, certifications can help you gain knowledge and connections.

» Learn More: Everything You Need to Know About SHRM Certification

The 3 Most Common HR Certifications:

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Do you have an HR certification?

What's the Average HR Manager Turnover?

Human resource professionals at the top enterprise companies stick around at their company longer than the average worker, while those at startups tend to jump around a bit more:

  • 76% of enterprise HR managers have worked at their current employer for three years or more — and nearly half (48%) have worked there for 7 years or more.
  • Nearly 1 in 5 of enterprise HR managers (17%) have been with the same organization for their entire career.
  • The majority of HR managers at startups (83%) have been with their current employer for 3 years or fewer.
  • More than 2 in 5 HR managers at startups (44%) have worked for 6 companies or more.

resume for human resources

Should HR Managers Be on Social Media?

These days, social media use is strictly professional for HR pros. And those who aren’t active are missing out.

But having a profile is not enough. 2 in 5 HR professionals (41%) have not posted on LinkedIn in the last two months, which is a missed opportunity to engage with current and potential employees and partners.

resume for human resources

Beyond LinkedIn connections, HR managers can leverage social media to promote their organization’s values, share content, and influence potential new hires.

HR managers at enterprises have an average of 7,644 followers, which is more than 4x the average number of followers for startup HR managers, who have 1,731 followers on average.

If your goal is to lead HR at an enterprise company, developing your online presence and gaining a following could help you break in.

LinkedIn Activity: Enterprise vs. Startup

resume for human resources

Today, HR managers use LinkedIn to promote their companies and engage with people more broadly across industries and at all levels of employment.

Enterprise HR pros are more likely to post on the platform, whereas startup pros mainly comment and react to others’ posts.

LinkedIn isn’t always all business, either—a quarter of HR pros also add personal posts and shares to the social networking site as they make connections and pursue career growth opportunities.

“Linkedin is a way to further the mission of your organization and build an employer brand. You just have to be careful—the perspectives you post are attached to the company you’re representing. People won’t separate your opinion and the company’s.”

How Did We Find Our Data?

Methodology:.

BambooHR partnered with Method Research to conduct an analysis of HR representatives from the top companies on the Fortune 500 and Inc. 5000 2022 lists. Using public data available online through LinkedIn, Twitter, and company press releases, Method compiled data on the top 100 enterprise companies from the Fortune list and the top 100 startups from the Inc list and their heads of HR. The sample of HR leaders was n=162 at the time of research due to some HR leaders not having a sufficient online presence or companies not having HR roles. Data was collected from July 14 to October 14, 2022 as each list was published.

About BambooHR:

Serving more than 30,000 organizations and over three million employees worldwide, BambooHR® is the only HR software designed for small and medium-sized businesses. BambooHR makes it easy for growing companies to manage essential employee information in a personalized, cloud-based, and secure system. BambooHR customers include innovators like Asana, Foursquare, Stance, Change.org, Jane.com, and Postmates. With customers in 100 countries, BambooHR’s goal is to set HR professionals and organizations free to do great work. BambooHR also hosts more than 30,000 HR professionals at its annual HR Virtual Summit . To find out more, visit bamboohr.com or follow @bamboohr on social media.

HR is Hard. BambooHR is Easy.

resume for human resources

"BambooHR really helps me as an HR leader focus on connecting my employees, managers, and new hires. It does it seamlessly and as part of the product."

Johnny Johnson | HR Director at Medical Clinic of Houston, LLP

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Employee Wellbeing

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Recommended Reading

Mastering performance management.

Rather watch than read? Sit back and enjoy our popular video series on what it takes to master performance management at your company.

How HR Professionals Can Manage Employee Benefits in a Post-Pandemic World

Take a look at some tools and strategies to help you identify, measure, and prioritize the benefit expectations of your current and future workforce.

BambooHR Performance Management

Wondering how to improve your productivity processes? See what effective performance management software looks like up close.

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Developing leadership skills and a deeper understanding of human resources management, samreen sonde.

Class of 2025

Currently Studying: MS in Human Resources Management

Current Internship: Club Management Intern, BJs Wholesale Club

Pronouns: She/Her

Pace University Lubin School of Business student Samreen Sonde '25

Samreen Sonde '25 is strengthening her leadership skills and understanding of human resources management during her internship, solidifying her aspiration to pursue a career in the field.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

Career Services has been instrumental in helping me refine my resume, allowing me to pass the AI resume screening process for interviews.

What attracted you to this internship?

I was drawn to this internship because of BJ's commitment to caring for families.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at your organization?

I oversee operations and provide leadership and direction within the organization. I collaborate with other managers to drive team member engagement, and I develop talent through coaching, teaching, and developing team members. Additionally, I assess team member performance and provide actionable feedback. I evaluate departmental performance using company reporting programs and provide recommendations to maximize sales, profits, and performance. Ensuring that operational processes are consistently followed in highly controlled areas such as receiving, asset control, and human resources is also a key part of my role. I continually monitor customer service levels to ensure a positive service experience is delivered to all members and maintain an understanding of club policies and procedures across all areas of the club.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

The highlight has been visiting different clubs, meeting new employees, and understanding their perspectives.

This internship has strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of human resources management. It has solidified my aspiration to pursue a career in human resources by providing real-world experience in team development, operational efficiency, and performance evaluation.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

This internship has strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of human resources management. It has solidified my aspiration to pursue a career in human resources by providing real-world experience in team development, operational efficiency, and performance evaluation. The hands-on experience and networking opportunities have significantly influenced my career path.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

This internship will allow me to apply practical knowledge to my coursework, deepen my understanding of human resources concepts, and enhance my engagement in class discussions. It has provided valuable connections and insights that will benefit my professional growth.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

Yes, persevere until you succeed and maintain contact with your counselors; interactions with them can be life-changing.

Connect with Samreen:

  • Connect with Samreen Parvaz on LinkedIn
  • Follow Samreen Parvaz on Instagram

IMAGES

  1. Human Resources Resume Sample & Writing Tips

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  2. 8 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples For 2021

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  3. 26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

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  4. 26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

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  5. Human Resources Professional Resume Example With Content Sample

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  6. 3 Entry-Level HR Resume Examples & Templates [Edit Free]

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COMMENTS

  1. 26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

    Why this resume works. Human resources is a wide-ranging profession, so be specific about your HR experience. If you have more than 10 years of experience, you can add a resume summary (also called a career summary) to list your HR experience and biggest achievements.; Space is limited on your resume, but don't worry—you'll have more room to discuss the context of your experience in your ...

  2. 24 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

    Find 24 sample resumes for different HR roles, from manager to entry level, with tips and templates. Learn how to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements in the HR field.

  3. 8 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples & Template for 2024

    HR generalist resume. Personable Human Resources Generalist with 8+ years of experience in benefits management and administration, as well as staff recruitment and development. Passionate about decreasing the gap between the labor force and upper management to support a productive work environment. Possess a Professional in Human Resources ...

  4. Human Resources Resume Examples

    Human Resources Resume Examples. Many HR resumes begin with a strong headline or summary statement. From the start, your resume should broadcast your excellent communication and interpersonal skills. In some cases, you may want to highlight any additional HR certifications or training you've received.

  5. Human Resources Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

    Human Resources Intern, Google Inc., San Francisco, CA. May 2023 - January 2024. Supported all aspects of the end-to-end recruitment process for over 300 candidates, including job posting, candidate screening, interview scheduling, and offer negotiation, resulting in a 20% reduction in time-to-hire.

  6. Human Resources Resume Examples, Skills and Keywords

    A recruiting resume and an HR generalist resume should focus on different skills and experience. Below are three human resources resume examples for the three most popular HR jobs: recruiter, entry-level human resources, and HR generalist. You can use these samples to help you put together your own eye-catching resume.

  7. 20 Human Resources Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

    Customize your resume for each human resources position, focusing on the skills and experiences most relevant to the job. Present your education, relevant coursework, and HR certifications to demonstrate your qualifications. Craft compelling resume summaries and objective statements to capture recruiters' attention.

  8. 4 Human Resources Examples & Templates for 2024

    Human Resources Specialists usually list 20 skills on their resumes. The most common skills for Human Resources Specialists are employee retention, Microsoft Office, performance appraisal, adaptability & flexibility, and project management. Resumes for Human Resources Specialists are, on average, 3.5 pages long.

  9. Human Resources Resume: Examples, Templates & Tips

    For roles in human resources, which exist across industries, choose a versatile modern or simple resume template that will be appropriate for many different work environments. Regardless of the style you choose, however, your contact information should be front and center, in a font that is easy to read. Step 2.

  10. 6 Great Human Resources Manager Resume Examples

    Good example: " Proven Human Resources Manager with 10+ years of experience in leading HR operations and driving organizational success. Adept at developing and implementing effective recruitment strategies, optimizing organizational structure, and fostering a positive work environment. Skilled in performance management, conflict resolution ...

  11. How to Write an HR Resume (Plus an Example!)

    Below is an example of an HR generalist resume. This resume is designed for a mid-career HR generalist or HR business partner and highlights key skills relevant to those kinds of roles. Download example human resources resume. With the right achievement-focused bullet points, keywords, design, and structure, your HR resume can be a powerful ...

  12. Human Resources Resume Sample and Guide

    Resume Summary. Accomplished Human Resources professional with over 7 years of experience specializing in talent management and organizational development. Successfully enhanced workforce productivity by 30% through targeted leadership training initiatives. Expert in deploying HR technologies such as SAP SuccessFactors to streamline HR processes.

  13. 18+ Human Resources Resume Examples [with Guidance]

    Human Resources Administration: The ability to effectively manage the day-to-day operations of the Human Resources department is key. 4. Performance Management: You should be able to understand how to properly assess employee performance, handle their career development, and provide guidance accordingly. 5.

  14. Human Resources Resume Examples & Templates (2024)

    Human resources job market and outlook. Human resources departments are finding themselves with expanded scope as 73% of employees look toward their companies to provide them with support in preparing for the work futures, the Harvard Business Review reported.. A study by the Cognizant Center for Future of Work and Future Workplace found that HR's focus will likely shift to employee wellness ...

  15. Human Resource (HR) Resume

    Before you go, let's go over the main rules when creating a HR resume: Select the correct format for an HR resume. Use a reverse-chronological format, and follow the best layout practices to keep everything clear and concise. Instantly grab the reader's attention with a summary or objective.

  16. Human Resources Resume Sample: Template & Guide for 2024

    Expert Hint: Though the objective or summary statement goes first (top) on your resume, it doesn't mean you have to write it first. Instead, save it for the end so you can use the rest of your resume to guide this crucial section. 3. Write the Perfect HR Job Description and Skills Sections.

  17. Professional Human Resources Resume Examples

    Below are samples of what our builder might suggest for your human resources resume: Knowledge of HR regulatory compliance. Listening carefully to employee questions and concerns. Resolution of employee disputes resolution. Working with people from diverse backgrounds. Maintaining accurate employee records.

  18. HR Generalist Resume [Sample & How to Write]

    HR Generalist with 10+ years of experience managing and coordinating human resource functions while facilitating the planning and execution of policies and procedures. Skilled in all aspects of human resource management, including talent recruitment, training and development, payroll administration, employee relations, and conflict resolution.

  19. Find Great HR Resume Examples + Tips and Advice

    HR Resume Examples 2024. If you're looking for Human Resource (HR) resume examples, JobHero has the largest selection you'll find on the internet. On this page, we showcase 105 resume examples that cover every job title in the HR spectrum including: benefits and compensation, employee relations, HR management and recruiting.

  20. Human Resources (HR) Specialist Resume Examples for 2024

    Fortunately, writing a job-winning human resources specialist resume requires no injections. And with our writing tips, it's both painless and easy. Let's dig in. This guide will show you: An HR specialist resume example better than 9 out of 10 other resumes. How to write a human resources specialist resume that will land you more interviews.

  21. How to Write Powerful and Memorable HR Resumes-Employee Development

    In the two sample resumes that accompany this article, you'll immediately notice the relevant headlines: "Human Resources Manager" for Leslie Grant, followed by three short, bulleted ...

  22. Human Resources Resume Summary Examples and Samples

    Human Resources Resume Summary Example #1. A competent, organized and outgoing individual with a strong work ethic and exceptional communication skills. International and local working experience, a keen desire to learn new tasks and grow, looking to contribute to an international or a local brand in the area of Human Resources.

  23. 195 Resume Power Words That Will Get You Hired (+ Examples)

    Teal's Job Matching Mode, a premium feature within its resume maker, recommends relevant keywords from the job description that can be combined with power words for your resume.. 3. Match your experiences: Select power words that accurately describe your achievements and align with the job requirements. 4. Incorporate naturally: Weave these words into your resume, ensuring they fit ...

  24. 18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

    Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following: Optimize keywords. Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as ...

  25. Human Resources Specialist, Operations

    Submit cover letter and resume via email by September 13, 2024. The position is full time/exempt. Submit cover letter and resume via email by September 13, 2024. ... It is responsible for a variety of functions, including budgeting, human resources, office administration, case management, procurement, operations, information technology ...

  26. Human resource management: All you need to know

    Human resource management is the practice of managing people in an organisation to help it achieve its goals. Core functions include recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, performance management, employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labour laws.

  27. Human Resources Manager

    GENERAL DESCRIPTION. This role is in person and not remote. Performs advanced (senior level) human resources management work. Work involves coordinating and administering the operation of a human resources management program (employee development, recruitment and selection, HR compliance, classification, employee relations, records, discipline, workers' compensation, safety, and benefits).

  28. The State of Human Resources Leadership Report (2023 Data)

    To see what human resources leadership looks like in the U.S. today, we analyzed the top Fortune 100 companies and Inc. 100 startups. The State of Human Resources Leadership Report (2023 Data) ... seek a wide variety of candidates instead of limiting your talent pool based on a resume checklist. Instead, look for people who add to your company ...

  29. Developing Leadership Skills and a Deeper Understanding of Human

    Lubin graduate student Samreen Sonde '25 is strengthening her leadership skills and understanding of human resources management during her internship, solidifying her aspiration to pursue a career in the field. ... Career Services has been instrumental in helping me refine my resume, allowing me to pass the AI resume screening process for ...

  30. PDF www.cdn-careerservices.fas.harvard.edu

    www.cdn-careerservices.fas.harvard.edu