HR Generalist resume example
A strong HR Generalist resume leads with a results-focused summary, three to five quantified bullets per role, and the human resources skills employers screen for, such as hr, human resources, employee relations. Start every bullet with an action verb, back each claim with a number, and mirror the exact HR Generalist job title so applicant tracking systems match you. The example below shows how to structure each section for a mid-level candidate.
Professional summary example
A strong summary is your 10-second pitch. Here's an example for HR Generalist positions:
“Results-driven HR Generalist with 5+ years of experience in hr and human resources. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and exceeding performance targets. Skilled in employee relations, policies, with strong leadership and communication abilities.”
Work experience examples
Use these bullet point examples to showcase your achievements:
HR Generalist
[Company Name]
- Recruited comprehensive hr strategies that increased efficiency by 35%
- Led a team of 5 professionals, mentoring junior staff and conducting performance reviews
- Developed cross-departmental initiatives in human resources, delivering measurable cost savings (add your figure)
- Implemented and implemented employee relations best practices, reducing errors by 40%
- Collaborated with stakeholders to define requirements and deliver policies on schedule
HR Generalist
[Previous Company]
- Managed hr projects from conception to completion, managing $200K budget
- Resolved process improvements that increased team productivity by 25%
- Recognized as top performer for 2 consecutive years based on human resources metrics
Skills to include
Balance technical expertise with soft skills for a well-rounded HR Generalist resume.
Technical skills
Soft skills
Formatting tips
Use a clean, ATS-friendly format with clear section headings
Keep your resume to 1 page (entry/mid) or 2 pages (senior/executive)
Use bullet points starting with strong action verbs
Include quantified achievements with specific numbers and percentages
Incorporate hr, human resources, employee relations keywords naturally throughout
Use consistent formatting for dates, company names, and job titles
Save as PDF to preserve formatting unless specifically asked for Word
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid these frequent pitfalls when writing your Human Resources resume.
Using generic descriptions instead of HR Generalist-specific achievements
Listing job duties instead of accomplishments with measurable results
Ignoring ATS optimization and keyword placement
Including outdated skills or irrelevant experience
Using an unprofessional email address
Forgetting to tailor the resume for each application
Including personal information like age, marital status, or photo
Missing quantifiable achievements
Complete your HR Generalist application
Need a cover letter too? Try the japply.io cover letter app, free to start.
HR Generalist resume FAQs
Common questions about writing a resume
What should I include in an HR Generalist resume?
An HR Generalist resume should include: contact information, a professional summary highlighting hr and human resources expertise, work experience with quantified achievements, relevant skills section, education, and certifications. Tailor each section to the specific human resources role you're targeting.
How long should an HR Generalist resume be?
For mid-level HR Generalist positions, your resume should be one to two pages. Focus on relevant experience and achievements in human resources rather than trying to include everything. Prioritize impact over length and put the most relevant work first.
What skills are most important for an HR Generalist resume?
Key skills for an HR Generalist resume include technical skills like hr, human resources, employee relations, policies, as well as soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Review job descriptions in human resources to identify the most in-demand skills and feature them prominently.
How do I make my HR Generalist resume stand out?
To make your HR Generalist resume stand out: 1) Use quantified achievements (percentages, dollar amounts), 2) Include industry keywords like hr, human resources, employee relations, 3) Customize for each application, 4) Use a clean, ATS-friendly format, 5) Lead with your strongest qualifications for human resources roles.
Should I include a photo on my HR Generalist resume?
In the US, Canada, and UK, do not include a photo on your HR Generalist resume as it can lead to unconscious bias and an ATS can't read an image anyway. However, photos may be expected in other countries. Research the norms for your target human resources market.
Build your HR Generalist resume
Start from an ATS-friendly template, then paste a Human Resources job to tailor it. Building is free, and so is your first tailored application.