Career Spotlight: The Dynamic Role of an HR Generalist Unveiled

Simply put, an HR generalist is an HR professional fluent in all things human resources—from recruitment and onboarding to training and offboarding. Their role is to support the organization, ensuring that all HR processes and programs are carried out effectively and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Don't let the name fool you; HR generalists develop deep insights into their organizations. An HR generalist is responsible for creating, designing, and implementing people strategies that help organizations and their people achieve their goals, working within HR or people teams.

Five Reasons to Have an HR Generalist on Board

Today, the role of the HR generalist has become increasingly important. But what does it mean to have an HR generalist on your team? Here are the skills and competencies that make HR generalists an integral part of any organization.

They are ministers of culture

As leaders plan to transform the culture to adapt to the advancing pace of the market, an HR generalist gives leaders the information they need to make change happen while taking a pulse check of the organization. Their job is to keep the energy in the organization moving and sprinkle the all-important cultural pixie dust that makes an organization hum. 

For example, if the company is adopting a new software solution, the HR generalist’s role is to provide the training and communication tools to enable these actions. This may involve curating a training module or programme for the new software solution.

They read between the lines

Organizations where HR promotes positive employee experience perform better, research shows. This has become even more important during the pandemic as organizations work to build team morale and positive attitudes.

HR generalists are aware of both spoken and non-verbal body language. They recognise and acknowledge these differences in a way that makes the employee feel comfortable. These professionals partner with employees to design meaningful, relevant, and engaging experiences that elicit meaning and enable people, teams, and organizations to operate at their best.

Make work purpose-driven

HR generalists are pivotal for ensuring the organization lives its purpose and values. This means integrating an organization's vision and culture with its people (or people operations) strategy. This may involve embedding purpose-driven activities into recruitment processes, performance management, people development activities, or as many organizational policies as possible. The effect of these intentions is to promote a culture of proactivity, resulting in meaningful work that makes a difference for everyone in the organization and society. 

Stay legally compliant

As companies approach critical headcount, hiring an HR generalist can improve compliance, reduce costs, and mitigate risk. These responsibilities include tax reporting and ensuring that their organizations comply with federal and state regulations such as equal opportunity laws, maternity benefit laws, employment discrimination laws, etc.

Develop better employee processes

An HR generalist also takes care of internal processes and development. This includes tracking leave, improving the performance review process, helping employees set goals, and managing benefits. 

After all, a business owner doesn't have the time or talent to undertake these tasks, let alone manage them well.

Champion Employee Concerns with an HR Generalist

As organizations grow and evolve, they seek professionals who can not only support talent but also unify the team, address gaps, and ensure comprehensive coverage. An HR generalist tracks an employee's entire career path within your organization. They can ensure your organization gets the most from its workforce.