creative hr resume templates

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• Free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

26 Human Resources (HR) Resume Examples for 2024

• Human Resources Resumes
• HR Resumes by Experience
• HR Resumes by Role

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

or download as PDF

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

Vice President of Human Resources Resume

• Now, suppose you’ve got a couple of degrees. Structuring the education section in your vice president of human resources resume is the way to go. For example, let your Master’s in Business Administration take the lead, followed by your Bachelor’s in the same field.

HRIS Analyst Resume

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 Officer ( CHRO ) Resume

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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!

• • 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

Human Resources plays a crucial role in managing employee relations, recruitment, and organizational development. When crafting your resume, focus on your experience with talent acquisition, employee engagement strategies, and compliance with labor laws. Incorporate abilities such as conflict resolution, data analysis, and effective communication. Highlight accomplishments like improving employee retention rates and implementing successful training programs to demonstrate how you contribute to organizational success.

All resume examples in this guide

Human Resources Intern

Entry-Level Human Resources

Junior Human Resources

Human Resources Coordinator

Human Resources Representative

Human Resources Data Analyst

Human Resources Benefits Specialist

Human Resources Specialist

Chief Human Resources Officer

Contracts Manager

Diversity And Inclusion Manager

HR Assistant

HR Business Partner

HR Director

HR Generalist

Human Resources Consultant

Resume Guide

Formatting Tips

Experience Section

Hard & Soft Skills

Education & Certifications

Summary & Objective

Additional Sections

Key Takeaways

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.

Looking to build your own HR resume?

• Resume Examples

Frequently asked questions about HR resumes

How long should i make my hr resume, what is the best format for an hr resume, which hr skills are most important to add to your resume, should i include a summary or objective in my hr resume, can i use an hr resume template, how can i make my hr resume stand out, bulgaria: a cv to make you proud, sales director interview questions and answers, google docs resume templates, how to create a first year elementary school teacher resume, should i put pronouns on my resume, past or present tense on resume: what should i use.

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Templates
• Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• AI Resume Review
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Resume Guides
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• [email protected]
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

Made with love by people who care.

© 2024 . All rights reserved.